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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. Classic springtime tunes (31–40).

Song of SpringUkasukaji

"Song of Spring" (Ukasuka-G ver.) MUSIC VIDEO short ver.
Song of SpringUkasukaji

Perfect for cherry blossom season, this gem of a song was crafted by the duo Ukasuka-G.

Its refreshing melody evokes the arrival of spring and the start of new beginnings, and the heartwarming lyrics are truly memorable.

Produced in March 2014 as FM802’s “ACCESS!” campaign song, it features a star-studded lineup of participating artists.

It also shines as a motivational anthem that gently encourages those stepping into a new environment.

Wrapped in the warmth of spring, it’s a track I highly recommend to anyone about to take that first step forward.

Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Sakura, Hirari [Official Visualizer]
Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars’ new song is as beautiful and fleeting as a flurry of cherry blossoms, with a light, spring-breeze melody and refined Japanese lyrics that truly resonate.

It also carries a wish for recovery from the earthquake disaster.

It will be released for digital streaming on January 1, 2025, and is said to be included on the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH,” scheduled for release in March.

The beauty and harshness of nature, loss and renewal, and hope—while listening to a song that embraces such profound themes, how about taking a walk with someone special during cherry blossom season? It’s sure to be an experience that touches the heart.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

A heartwarming song by Yuuri! It’s a moving piece that gently embraces the feelings of those reaching the milestone of graduation.

Gratitude to family, memories with friends, and both the hopes and anxieties for the future are expressed through a tender voice and beautiful melody.

Released in February 2021 as a digital-only single, the song is also included on the album “Ichi,” and it has resonated with many listeners.

It’s often used at graduation ceremonies and related events, making it a recommended listen for the spring season.

Give it a try when you want to reflect on memories or when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

Takanori Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

Here is a graduation song filled with bittersweet feelings, bathed in the gentle light of spring.

The melody woven by Takaya Kawasaki delicately conveys, with his tender vocals, the emotions of a protagonist who cannot express their feelings in a classroom where cherry blossoms dance in March.

The soft metaphor of likening a boy who can’t be honest about his feelings to a rabbit is especially striking.

Released in January 2021, this piece is also included on the album “Nukumori,” and it has soothed the hearts of many.

It’s a song you’ll want to play while driving through the city, carried by a fresh spring breeze.

Perfect for the graduation season, for moments of reminiscing about youth, or for warming thoughts of someone dear.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46
Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

A spring song by Hinatazaka46 that poignantly sings of cherry blossoms, graduation, and unspoken love.

With lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto and music by Nasuka, the piece is set on the day of a graduation ceremony, portraying memories and regrets that resurface with the arrival of spring.

In the music video—filmed on a set themed around cherry blossom trees—Nao Kosaka takes center stage as a dreamlike, parade-like world unfolds.

First performed at the Tokyo Dome on December 26, 2024, it was released as the group’s 13th single on January 29, 2025.

Capturing the feelings of youthful, unripe love and the emotions left unsaid, it’s a track that deeply resonates with younger listeners.

It’s also a perfect fit for elementary school graduation ceremonies and springtime events.

A bright, cherry blossom-themed song. A classic that evokes the feeling of spring (41–50)

Cherry Blossom ForestHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Sakura no Mori (Live from “Banquet” 2021)
Cherry Blossom ForestHoshino Gen

Starting with a depiction of an ethereal forest, Gen Hoshino’s song delicately captures the breath of life awakening with the arrival of spring.

The beauty and transience of nature, along with the emotions within the human heart, are expressed in exquisite balance, while the graceful melodies woven by acoustic instruments and strings resonate deeply.

Included as a track on his seventh single released in June 2014, it was also used as J-WAVE’s spring campaign song.

Later featured on the album “YELLOW DANCER,” this gem paints an inner landscape that quietly accompanies the cherry blossom season.

It’s a gentle, warm piece—perfect for a stroll or a drive, and one you’ll want to listen to softly during a spring evening.

My heart is stop-motionKuwae Tomoko

Spring Song ① My Heart is Stop Motion / Tomoko Kuwae
My heart is stop-motionKuwae Tomoko

A heartfelt work by Tomoko Kuwae that gently envelops the thrill of unexpected encounters and new love.

Its light, refreshing melody beautifully captures the budding feelings that arrive with spring.

The way a heart, after a long winter, gradually unravels in the warm sunlight is especially memorable.

Released in January 1979, it reached No.

12 on the Oricon weekly chart and was also used in a commercial for Pola’s Vario cosmetics.

In the same year, it earned the Best New Artist Award at the 21st Japan Record Awards and was included on her debut album, Born Free.

A perfect song for anyone feeling the stirrings of romance or eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring.