Spring songs to color the season of meetings and partings—recommended for the Yutori generation
Speaking of spring, it’s known as a season of farewells—often evoked by graduation ceremonies—but it’s also a season of encounters, when new journeys and lifestyles begin.
In the J-POP scene in particular, there are many songs that conjure up the image of cherry blossoms, a symbol of Japan, and they’re all cherished as classics.
This time, we’ve put together a list of spring songs especially recommended for the yutori generation.
From timeless staples to hidden gems, we’ll cover a wide range—so be sure to check them out!
Spring songs (1–10) I’d recommend to the Yutori generation, coloring the season of meetings and farewells
Best FriendNEW!Nishino Kana
It’s a heartwarming friendship song that expresses gratitude to a best friend who supports you in both good times and bad, written plainly and straight from the heart.
Released in February 2010 by Kana Nishino—an artist beloved for her cute vocals and relatable lyrics—the single was chosen as the campaign song for NTT Docomo’s “Ganbare Jukensei” (Good Luck, Exam Takers) campaign.
It was later included on the classic, hit-making album “to LOVE.” This track brightens spring events—a season of partings like graduations and moving on to new schools.
How about using it as the BGM for an Instagram Reels video that compiles beautiful cherry blossom scenes and cherished photos, dedicated to a dear friend with whom it may no longer be easy to meet as before, as you both step forward onto a new stage?
Song of DepartureNEW!AAA
This is a song by the co-ed performance group AAA that you’ll want to listen to when setting off on a new journey and taking your first step forward.
Released in January 2009 as their 20th single, it was their first attempt at a ballad sung by all members, a departure from the strong dance-track image they had up to that point.
Amid the sorrow of parting, it carries hope for the future and uplifting messages that gently nudge listeners forward.
In spring, when anxiety and anticipation mix as new lives begin, why not listen to this track that’s perfect for rallying yourself?
dizzinessNEW!DREAMS COME TRUE
An exquisite ballad perfect for spring, portraying a profound sense of loss so deep it makes your body waver.
Created by DREAMS COME TRUE, who continue to lead the Japanese music scene, it’s included on their album THE LOVE ROCKS, released in February 2006.
The song was produced as the theme for the TV Asahi drama special “Ai to Shi o Mitsumete” (“Gazing at Love and Death”).
Miwa Yoshida’s deeply expressive vocals and Masato Nakamura’s minimalist, subtractive arrangement—both mirroring the story’s gravitas—leave a lasting impression.
How about listening to a track that gently accompanies those trying to overcome the pain of heartbreak?
windNEW!Kobukuro
Kobukuro’s fourth single, released in February 2002.
With the hint of spring felt through a light shirt, it portrays the bittersweet emotions of recalling a former lover.
It’s a ballad that conveys a universal strength in facing the pain of parting and growing through it.
In addition to being beloved as the theme song for Fuji TV’s variety show “Uchi Kuru!?,” its strong storytelling was recognized through a drama adaptation starring Miho Kanno.
Give it a listen when you want to heal the wounds of a broken heart with the arrival of spring and take a new step forward.
Sakura Rain, SomedayNEW!Matsu Takako
Many of you probably remember it as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Omiai Kekkon.” It’s a single released in February 2000 by Takako Matsu, who has also firmly established herself as an actress.
The lyrics were written by Matsu herself, with composition by renowned producer Satoshi Takebe.
A delicate, piano-centered arrangement intertwines with her crystal-clear vocals, evoking a quiet, spring-rain-like poignancy.
The lyrics are tinged with the bittersweet regret of not having been able to do anything for someone precious.
When you’re carrying the pain of parting yet want to surrender your heart to the gently falling rain, give it a listen.
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song features a light rhythm that evokes the warmth of spring and a melody that gently embraces personal doubts and inner conflict.
It portrays, from Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s characteristically down-to-earth perspective, the emotional wavering everyone experiences in youth—wondering whether it’s okay to be one’s true self.
Created as a symbol of the band’s new phase, it was produced as the theme song for the NHK General special program “Mrs.
GREEN APPLE 18 Festival” in January 2025, and its collaboration with 1,000 18-year-olds generated a huge response.
This track warmly and gently nudges forward those beginning a new chapter in life or searching for their authentic selves.
Far, far awayNEW!Makihara Noriyuki
A timeless hit by Noriyuki Makihara that strikes deep in the hearts of those living away from their hometowns.
The lyrics, filled with the resolve to build a new life in a new city to fulfill one’s dreams and a warm message for friends far away, will gently give listeners a push forward.
In fact, this piece wasn’t a single; it was a track included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” released in June 1992.
Later, when Makihara’s self-cover was used as an NTT East Japan commercial song in 2006, it became a beloved standard known to even more people.
It’s an essential springtime cheer song with a warm power that makes the heart feel close even across great distances.