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A cheerful song about cherry blossoms—a classic that captures the feeling of spring.

Cherry blossoms are a quintessential symbol of spring in Japan.

In the world of music, too, there have long been many songs about cherry blossoms, and we hear lots of “sakura songs” every year.

Some lyrics portray the beauty of the blossoms, some announce the arrival of spring, and others overlay emotions like graduation and romance onto the image of sakura—there’s a wide variety.

The musical styles are equally diverse.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of cheerful sakura songs from among the many out there.

We’ve focused on up-tempo tracks and pop-leaning tunes, so enjoy listening while soaking up the spring vibes.

A bright, cherry blossom–themed song. A classic that captures the feeling of spring (71–80)

Cherry blossomMatsuda Seiko

[HD] Seiko Matsuda / Cherry Blossom (1981)
Cherry blossomMatsuda Seiko

Cherry Blossom, with its brilliant melody and Seiko Matsuda’s soaring vocals, is a perfect fit for spring.

As her fourth single since debut, the song radiates a fresh, invigorating, quintessential idol charm.

You can easily picture cherry blossoms blooming under the crisp spring sky.

The lyrics evoke the feeling of being reborn in spring when the sakura bloom—starting a new love and brimming with excitement for the future.

The song as a whole has a distinctly feminine vibe, making it a cherry-blossom tune especially recommended for women!

Sakura (2020 Chorus)Moriyama Naotaro

Calorie Mate CM | “Invisible Things” Full Version – Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (2020 Chorus)
Sakura (2020 Chorus)Moriyama Naotaro

Singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama commands a strong presence with his uniquely angled lyrics and warmly enveloping voice.

This arranged version of his second single and signature song “Sakura” also drew attention when it was featured in Calorie Mate’s commercial “Invisible Things,” starring Satoshi Iizuka of the comedy trio Tokyo 03.

Moriyama’s distinctive vocals layer with a resonant chorus to make the cherry-blossom scenery feel even more dreamlike.

As a staple among cherry-blossom songs, it’s an essential number for spring events like hanami.

the first strong spring windMayumura Chiaki

[New Song] Chiaki Mayumura “Haru Ichiban” Music Video
the first strong spring windMayumura Chiaki

The song produced by Chiaki Mayumura is a warm track that heralds the arrival of spring.

While depicting the start of a new season, it poignantly and beautifully captures moments of meeting and parting.

Included on the album “SAI,” the track was created as a tie-in with Ito En’s “Oi Ocha.” Lyrics interwoven with the elegance of haiku gently resonate with listeners on the verge of a new beginning.

Released in May 2023, this piece is perfect for anyone sensing the coming of spring.

Even those anxious about a new environment are sure to find courage by listening to this song.

A bright, cherry blossom-themed song. A classic that captures the feeling of spring (81–90)

Harusaki KobeniYano Akiko

Here is a classic song that gently portrays the season of dancing cherry blossoms.

Its hopeful lyrics, heralding the arrival of spring, and its warm, soothing melody give courage and smiles to everyone taking a new step forward.

Released in February 1981, the song reached No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, sold over 370,000 copies, and warmed the hearts of many.

It also ranked on the TV program “The Best Ten.” Perfect for the season when new beginnings start, this track carries a pleasant breeze.

Listen to it while enjoying hanami, and the beauty of spring will shine even more.

Spring Love, Awakeningkusō iinkai

Kusou Iinkai / Spring Love, Awakening Music Video
Spring Love, Awakeningkusō iinkai

A three-piece rock band, Kuusou Iinkai, turns the difficulties we feel in everyday life—and the hidden fragments of hope within them—into songs they deliver to listeners.

This track, included on their major-label second album “March of Doubt,” grabs your ear from the start with an opening of odd-meter beats that leaves a powerful impact.

With a driving rhythm, standout guitar phrases and bass lines, and a refreshing melody, the spring-breeze feel of the arrangement makes it perfect for cherry blossom season.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleasing rock tune you’ll want to belt out at karaoke after an event with all your friends.

Sakuraayaka

Ayaka / “Sakura” Short Movie Music Video
Sakuraayaka

Ayaka’s “Sakura” portrays various farewells in life, including graduation.

Included on the album “30 y/o,” the song was originally performed only live and wasn’t planned for release.

However, due to fans’ requests, it was eventually recorded.

A short film themed around a particular farewell, featuring Rina Kawaei, was also produced to accompany the song.

Alongside the bittersweet feelings of graduation and parting, the image of cherry blossoms blooming and scattering evokes hope and courage for the future.

Ayaka’s gentle voice and the beautiful melody will surely soothe the pain of the farewells you’ve experienced.

Dreams and Leaf-Cherry TreesAoki Gekkou

Nightcore – Dream and Leaf Cherry Blossoms // Yume to Hazakura [Wotamin Cover] Original song by: Aoki Gekkoh
Dreams and Leaf-Cherry TreesAoki Gekkou

Yume to Hazakura evokes a refined elegance in its portrayal of cherry blossoms painted with a distinctly Japanese sensibility.

Released in 2011, the song was crafted by Aoki Gekkou, a trio of Vocaloid producers.

Just like the breathtaking sight of cherry trees in full bloom, moments of beauty and joy pass by like fleeting dreams.

While reminiscing about those happy times, the lyrics also depict a determination to live strongly in the present.

It’s a song that can empower anyone beginning a new chapter in spring.