[2026] Spring songs sung by idols: A roundup of cherry blossom and graduation songs

Love so sweetarashi

ARASHI – Love so sweet [Official Music Video]

Released by Arashi in February 2007, this song shone brilliantly as the theme for the drama “Boys Over Flowers 2 (Returns).” Its sacred melody, which beautifully depicts the belief in a bond between two people even when they’re apart—as if petals were dancing—teaches us one form of youth.

As the cityscape becomes dyed in spring colors, Arashi’s vocals will gently give you a supportive push forward.

Youth ClockNGT48

NGT48 “Seishun Dokei” Music Video / NGT48 [Official]

This song portrays the pure first crush of a male student from afar, set along a school route bathed in the warmth of spring.

Throughout, a refreshing pop feel blends beautifully with a nostalgic kayōkyoku style, with soft, airy rap adding a memorable touch.

It gently captures the bittersweet emotion of watching from a distance and a fleeting moment of youth marked by the passage of time, resulting in a heartwarming piece.

Released in April 2017 as NGT48’s major-label debut, it topped the Oricon Weekly Singles chart.

It was also selected as the opening theme for TBS’s “COUNT DOWN TV” in April and May and used in the Ichimasa Kamaboko “Una Jirō” commercial.

The music video was filmed at well-known spots in their hometown of Niigata City and created together with about 1,000 fans.

Highly recommended for those who cherish tender first-love feelings and memories of their youth, this is a wonderful, unforgettable track.

Slow motionNakamori Akina

[Official] Akina Nakamori 'Slow Motion (from “Hajimemashite”)' [1st Single (Released May 1, 1982)] Akina Nakamori / Slow Motion

A debut work distinguished by its mellow melody and crystalline vocals that gently embrace a budding crush on someone met by the seaside.

With an expressiveness hard to believe for a 16-year-old, Akina Nakamori beautifully captures the fateful moment of encounter.

Released in May 1982 and included on the album “Prologue [Jomaku],” it debuted at No.

58 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, quietly winning listeners’ hearts.

The pure feelings of a girl captivated by the sight of a man walking along the sandy beach are sung with the freshness of a sea breeze.

Evoking the premonition of love that everyone experiences as if it were a scene from a film, this piece is one to enjoy on a tranquil spring afternoon.

pedestrian overpassNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Footbridge”

This song by Nogizaka46 is a moving piece themed around life’s choices and taking a step toward the future.

Through the image of a protagonist hesitating over whether to cross a pedestrian bridge in the season of cold, wintry winds, it portrays the emotional wavering that accompanies decisions.

Katsuhiko Sugiyama’s melody and Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrics blend beautifully, resulting in a delicate and touching work.

Released on December 11, 2024, the track features Sakura Endo as the center, and among fans it’s been talked about as a possible answer song to “Kikkake.” It’s a perfect song for those standing at a crossroads in life or considering a new challenge.

Thunder Sakura feat. 9Lana, SAKURAmotiMAISONdes

Urusei Yatsura Season 2 Ending Full – Raiou by MAISONdes feat. 9Lana, SAKURAmoti

MAISONdes’s song, which portrays the fleeting feelings of love that color spring, resonates deeply with listeners.

The delicate vocals of 9Lana and the talent of SAKURAmoti merge to beautifully capture the transience of romance against a backdrop of cherry blossoms swirling through the city.

Released in January 2024, the track quickly drew attention as the ending theme for the anime Urusei Yatsura.

Its lyrics are memorable for layering the image of falling cherry blossoms with the emotions of love, and for the wish, “Let’s meet here again next year.” For those experiencing new encounters and farewells, this work offers empathy and encouragement.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a spring night while gazing at rows of cherry trees in bloom.

My Graduation Tosssakura gakuin

Sakura Gakuin – My Graduation Toss

A moving piece themed around Sakura Gakuin’s graduation.

The lyrics, which depict friendship, parting, and the courage to take a new step forward, resonate deeply.

Released in February 2013, the track was created by Tommy heavenly6 and Shunsaku Okuda, and its up-tempo pop-rock sound heightens the graduation moment.

Its memorable phrases remind us of the bonds we share with our friends.

As it expresses the feelings of Sakura Gakuin members as they actually graduate, it’s perfect not only for those facing graduation, but also for anyone who wants to look back on precious memories.

Spring of departure has come.Sumairēji

S/mileage 'The Spring of Departure Has Come' (MV)

This is a S/mileage song that brightly sings about taking a fresh first step into a new life with the arrival of spring.

It cheerfully portrays young people parting ways as they walk different paths, holding sparkling memories and strong bonds in their hearts.

Released in March 2013, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon Daily Singles Ranking.

Loved by many as a perfect cheer song for graduation season, it gives you the courage to keep moving toward your dreams, even while feeling anxious about diving into a new environment.

Recommended for anyone who wants to look back on cherished memories with close friends while feeling their heart swell with anticipation for a new chapter.