Songs with titles that start with “Ha.” Lots that evoke the seasons!

language of flowersNeil

Neil – Hanakotoba (Music Video)

The song “Hanakotoba,” which entrusts friendship to flowers, is a warm, heartening track.

It was released digitally by Warner Music Japan in July 2025.

With lyrics penned by Neil, the magical words that encourage a downcast friend are truly moving.

The refreshingly cool synths and tight beats also bring out the clarity of the vocals.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to believe in a friendship that remains unchanged, even when you’re apart.

Hanamakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Hana” (Official Audio)

A digital single written specifically for NHK’s “Minna no Uta” broadcast in October and November 2025.

It’s a heartwarming number that conveys a dog’s feelings toward its owner from the dog’s perspective.

Lyrics by Hattori and composition by bassist Kenya Takano.

The cover photo features Hattori’s family dog from his childhood home.

With a restrained tempo and simple arrangement, the song expresses a dog’s unconditional trust and gratitude toward its owner, carrying a universality that resonates across generations.

A warm track that dog lovers in particular won’t want to miss.

Passionate loveSaijō Hideki

Hidetoshi Saijo - Passionate Love

Opening with a striking phrase, this song portrays a passionate love that the singer is determined to pursue even against others’ opposition.

Released in May 1974 as Hideki Saijo’s 9th single, it stands as a quintessential example of funky kayō, with lyrics by Kazumi Yasui and composition/arrangement by Koji Makaino.

A buoyant, leaping beat led by the horn section underpins Saijo’s dynamic shouts, directly expressing the unstoppable impulse of love.

Though it peaked at No.

2 on Oricon, it stayed on the charts for 19 weeks and ranked No.

8 for the year.

Its powerful TV performances also became a hot topic, cementing Saijo’s image of passion and action.

It’s a classic Showa-era tune that gives you a push when you can’t hold back your feelings for someone and want to charge ahead.

heart notesSuzuki Airi

Airi Suzuki “heart notes” (Music Video) Special Theatrical Version - Kaguya-sama: Love Is War –The First Kiss That Never Ends– Ending Theme

A heartrending ballad that captures the irreplaceable beauty of everyday life that seems to last forever.

Performed by Airi Suzuki, who has flourished as a solo artist after her time in Hello! Project, the song was released digitally in December 2022.

It was selected as the ending theme for the special theatrical edition Kaguya-sama: Love Is War -The First Kiss That Never Ends-, released on CD in March 2023, and later included on the album 28/29.

The evolving feelings of two people who can’t quite be honest with each other are traced like entries in a notebook, expressed through meg rock’s poetic lyrics and Katsuhiko Sugiyama’s beautiful string arrangement.

A perfect listen for when you want to reevaluate your relationship with someone important.

Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme

Hilcrhyme – “Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter” Music Video

Released in September 2009, this single catapulted Hilcrhyme to nationwide fame.

It became one of their signature songs, securing numerous tie-ins, including TBS’s CDTV and commercials for RecoChoku.

With lyrics that weave a vow to walk alongside a loved one through the changing seasons, it has long been cherished as a staple for weddings and anniversaries.

The pleasing blend of hip-hop rhythms and piano melodies is likely etched deeply in the memories of the generation who were students at the time.

With a barefoot heartKisamiryuu

With a barefoot heart

This is the ending theme that sings of the strength and kindness of warriors who live in harmony with nature.

Composed by Ryu Kisami, it was included on a single released in 1998 and aired as the ending theme song for the TV Asahi tokusatsu drama Seijuu Sentai Gingaman.

Words evoking nature—like the sun and the wind—are repeated, and the lyrics compellingly embody the concept of forest warriors.

Centered on guitar-driven rock, the layered choruses give the track a sense of expansiveness.

It’s a song I’d love you to listen to when you want to cheer someone on who’s giving it their all.

Hello, my friendMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya - Hello, My Friend (In Memory of Ayrton Senna)

Coloring the summer of 1994, this song was released as the theme for the Monday 9 p.m.

drama “The Summer I Spent with You,” becoming a million seller that topped the Oricon charts.

Among Yumi Matsutoya’s works, it stands out as a profoundly heartrending masterpiece, depicting the complex emotions of someone who continues to think about a past love while wishing to keep that person in their heart as “just a friend.” The protagonist’s resolve to live positively despite the sadness of parting is something anyone can’t help but empathize with.

Its urbane arrangement, rich in synthesizers, blends exquisitely with a melody line that evokes a sense of nostalgia, making it an easy song to sing at karaoke.

It’s a track I especially recommend to those who, while looking back on a past romance, quietly hold feelings for someone dear.