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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 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.

A bright, cherry blossom-themed song. A classic that captures the feeling of spring (51–60)

spring skySuzuki Suzuki

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】
spring skySuzuki Suzuki

A heartwarming spring song from Suzuki Suzuki.

Centered on themes of graduation, encounters, and farewells, it gently sings about memories and friendships from school days.

With beautiful harmonies and a refreshing melody, this piece resonates deeply with listeners.

It was released digitally in February 2022 and is also included on their first album, “313.” It has become a staple song that many people listen to during graduation season.

Highly recommended for those embarking on a new chapter or looking back on cherished memories.

murmurUeno Daiki

Daiki Ueno / “Zawameki” Music Video
murmurUeno Daiki

A song you’ll want to listen to with the arrival of spring.

Daiki Ueno’s gentle voice carefully draws out the emotions that lie deep in the heart.

The warm tones of acoustic guitar and cello resonate as if embracing the small joys and loneliness of everyday life.

Included on the album “Shinryoku,” the track was released in March 2023 and was also selected as the theme song for the TV Tokyo and BS TV Tokyo drama “Konkatsu Shokudo.” This piece is one that stands beside those who feel both anticipation and anxiety at the start of a new season, as well as those who hold thoughts for days gone by.

On a spring day when your heart wavers, why not listen quietly and let it in?

Cherry Blossom MoonSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46, whose group name also includes the word “sakura,” released Sakurazuki in 2023, a song about a heartbreaking farewell.

Its beautiful melody, which conjures up the fleeting scene of cherry blossoms scattering, heightens the song’s sadness.

It portrays a parting at graduation: someone dear goes far away, yet they separate without ever expressing their desire not to be apart—or their love.

Like the short life of cherry blossoms, the song evokes memories of youth that pass in an instant and bittersweet feelings, while conveying a wish to live with the strength and dignity of the sakura.

10-year cherry blossomsAKB48

[MV full] 10nen Zakura / AKB48 [Official]
10-year cherry blossomsAKB48

Among AKB48’s songs, “10-nen Zakura” is known as a sakura-themed track.

It portrays springtime farewells, making it perfect for graduation season.

The melody is very bright, so listening to it naturally brings back memories of all the fun times.

Parting from friends you’ve spent time with is tough, but if you make a promise like, “Let’s meet again when the cherry blossoms bloom,” seeing the blossoms can give you strength.

Highly recommended if you’re looking for a glamorous, upbeat sakura song!

I want to become a cherry blossom tree.AKB48

[MV full] Let's Become a Cherry Tree / AKB48 [Official]
I want to become a cherry blossom tree.AKB48

Released in 2011, AKB48’s single “Sakura Song” can be considered a spring staple for the group.

When we think of the cherry blossom season, many of us picture graduation ceremonies.

This song also portrays the emotional state—almost unstable—that comes with facing graduation.

The lyrics leave a strong impression, suggesting a firm determination to clarify one’s starting point and move into the future without forgetting that initial resolve.

It’s a quiet, slightly lonely ballad, yet through the lyrics you can feel a powerful emotion rooted deep in the heart.

Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB48

[MV full] Sakura no Shiori / AKB48 [Official]
Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB48

Songs themed around cherry blossoms are widely sung both as anthems for new beginnings and as songs of farewell.

In the cherry blossom season, with beautiful blossoms in the background and everyone setting off to new places, there’s a certain wistful feeling in the air.

The chorus sung by all the members also accentuates that bittersweetness.