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

Go, Sakura! / Cheer up, Sakura!THE SUPER FRUIT

THE SUPER FRUIT – Sakura Fure Fure [Official Music Video]

THE SUPER FRUIT is a boys’ group that champions a clean-cut, pure image.

Their second single, released in March 2023, is a springtime anthem that captures both the excitement and anxiety of the cherry blossom season.

In the rush of starting a new chapter, its gentle lyrics affirm that stumbling is okay, warmly wrapping listeners in comfort.

The song was also beloved as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02.” With driving band sounds and a festive melody, this track gives you the courage to step into the future.

It’s a song brimming with positive energy—perfect to listen to as a cheer for yourself when your environment changes, like entering a new school or starting a job.

Your third buttonNEW!＝LOVE

=LOVE (Equal Love) / 16th single B-side “Your Third Button” [MV full]

When it’s graduation season, the sight of cherry blossoms brings back bittersweet memories, doesn’t it? At times like these, I find myself wanting to listen to songs by the idol group =LOVE, produced by Rino Sashihara.

They delicately portray that uniquely youthful, complex feeling of choosing to swallow the words “I like you” precisely because you want to remain friends.

Kiara Saito, who takes center position, delivers a fresh, expressive vocal that seems to gently embrace those unspoken feelings of love.

This track is included as a B-side to the single “Norotte Norotte,” released in March 2024.

It’s a warm song that quietly stays by the side of anyone facing graduation without the courage to confess, or those taking a new step forward while holding their precious memories close.

Beyond the GoodbyeYamaguchi Momoe

Beyond the Goodbye

Momoe Yamaguchi, the legendary songstress who blazed through the idol scene of the 1970s.

Released in August 1980 as her 31st single, this work is an eternal ballad that mirrors her feelings just before retirement.

The beautiful melody by the golden duo of Yoko Aki and Ryudo Uzaki, along with lyrics that convey gratitude and a resolve for the future, truly move the heart.

Her final act at the Budokan concert in October 1980—singing this song last and laying down the microphone—is famously iconic.

Also included on the album “Legend of the Phoenix,” it seems to reflect her stance of saying farewell while continuing to live on as a legend.

Listening to it during spring farewells or when taking a new step forward can inspire a quiet courage.

It is an unfading masterpiece, passed down and sung by many artists.

Spring La! La! La!Ishino Mako

Spring La! La! La!

This is Masako Ishino’s eighth single, released on New Year’s Day in 1980.

Its lively melody evokes the arrival of spring, and her bright, carefree vocals bring to mind her unguarded smile—truly charming.

Interestingly, the lyrics are known for depicting a slightly shocking love triangle, and the contrast with the pop sound is addictive.

There’s also a cute anecdote from her first appearance with this song on the popular music show “The Best Ten,” where she brought handmade cookies.

The track is included on the album “Koi no Disc Jockey MAKO IV,” and it’s a classic packed with the joy of Showa-era idol pop.

It’s a perfect song when you want to feel the buoyant mood of spring or immerse yourself in nostalgic kayōkyoku.

Sakura, Bloom!arashi

ARASHI – Sakura Sake [Official Music Video]

Released in March 2005 as Arashi’s 14th single, it was used as the TV commercial song for Jonan Prep School.

It’s a powerful rock tune that gently pushes forward those striving toward their dreams.

The track is included on the album “One,” and also appears on the best album “5×10 All the BEST! 1999-2009.” It sold 115,000 copies to top the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart at No.

1.

Carried on the spring breeze, the voices of the five members will surely give you the courage to take a step toward tomorrow.

Late-blooming cherry blossomsNEW!AKB48

Nagorizakura

It’s a song that makes you want to pause for a moment in the season where meetings and farewells intersect.

Sung by AKB48, it captivates with a nostalgic atmosphere that evokes familiar images of school routes and classroom scenes.

Released in February 2026 as their 67th single, it also marks the opening of a new chapter in the group’s 21st year.

Momoka Ito from the 19th generation serves as center for the first time, and her fresh yet somehow wistful vocals resonate deeply.

The single also includes a track originating from the TV special “Yasushi Akimoto vs AI Yasushi Akimoto,” giving it plenty of buzz.

Depicting the wavering emotions of young people who look back on the past while striving to face forward, it’s perfect for those starting a new life this spring or for moments when you want to immerse yourself in memories of your youth.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

This song portrays the hope that awaits beyond a heartrending farewell, carried by warm piano melodies.

Released by Nogizaka46 in November 2016, it is a memorable track in which Nanami Hashimoto served as center for the first time.

It was performed at the 67th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, moving the hearts of many.

It is a gentle, comforting piece that quietly supports those who have experienced parting from someone dear, or who are about to take a new step forward.