RAG MusicSpring-Songs
Lovely spring song

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 (121–130) recommended for the yutori generation that color the season of encounters and farewells

S.A.K.U.R.A.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / S.A.K.U.R.A.
S.A.K.U.R.A.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

The 12th single by Sandaime J Soul Brothers drew attention as a sharp, dance-oriented track infused with traditional Japanese flavor.

With a profound theme that overlays the fleeting nature of cherry blossoms with the human way of life, its lyrics strikingly ask how we can live beautifully within a limited time.

Released in March 2014, it was used as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Onegai! Ranking.” In the music video, the members tried their hand at sword-fighting choreography for the first time.

Built on the concept of “seven samurai protecting the legendary warrior, Sakura,” it was produced on a cinematic scale.

It’s a perfect song for anyone looking to fire themselves up before starting a new chapter.

When cherry-blossom hues danceNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima 'Sakurairo Maukoro' Music Video
When cherry-blossom hues danceNakajima Mika

Beginning with gentle piano tones, this piece, combined with Mika Nakashima’s translucent vocals, becomes a beautiful ballad that truly resonates with the heart.

The lyrics, depicting seasonal scenery and the inner worlds of lovers, stir the listener’s emotions.

Released in February 2005 as her 14th single, it became a popular song, reaching No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

In 2013, it was also used in a commercial for Japan Post Insurance (Kampo Seimei).

It’s a perfect song to listen to in spring, a season of new meetings and farewells, and it’s also recommended for imagining scenes from graduation and school entrance ceremonies.

Mika Nakashima’s voice will surely stay close to your heart.

SAKURA DropsUtada Hikaru

This is the 11th single by singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, who has released numerous hit songs since debuting at the tender age of 15.

The track was also used as the theme song for the TBS drama series “First Love.” With a poignant melody that conjures an image of cherry blossoms drifting in the wind, and an atmosphere and timbre that evoke a subtly traditional Japanese feel, it’s a superbly arranged number that naturally draws in Japanese listeners.

Perfect for the spring season, it’s a song that gently accompanies those experiencing new encounters and farewells.

Happinessarashi

ARASHI – Happiness [Official Music Video]
Happinessarashi

With its lightly sprinting guitar tones and vibrant, dynamic melody that lifts the heart, this piece is perfect for the season of new beginnings.

The lyrics capture both anticipation for the future and the determination to move forward despite doubts and anxieties, gently giving listeners a push from behind.

Released in 2007, it also became well-loved as the theme song for the drama “Yamada Taro Monogatari.” It’s a bright and refreshing spring anthem of encouragement, ideal for school graduations or anyone starting a new chapter in life.

Spring songs recommended for the Yutori generation to color the season of meetings and farewells (131–140)

Sakura, Bloom!arashi

ARASHI – Sakura Sake [Official Music Video]
Sakura, Bloom!arashi

Arashi’s 14th single, released in 2005.

It’s a rock number characterized by positive lyrics and a catchy rhythm, and with member Sho Sakurai writing the rap verse, it’s become an energetic track you’ll want to hear at the start of spring’s new beginnings.

Used as the TV commercial song for Jonan Prep School, it has since become a spring staple supported by younger generations.

In May 2013, it ranked No.

1 in the Heisei-born category on a special Music Station program.

It’s a song that powerfully pushes forward people starting new chapters in life—like examinees and those chasing their dreams.

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)
cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

With its delicate piano tones that resonate deeply, this song is memorable for Naotaro Moriyama’s distinctive vocals.

Through the image of cherry blossoms in full bloom, it gently sings of partings and reunions.

Released in March 2003, it had a modest start but spread by word of mouth and achieved an extraordinary hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon chart in its ninth week.

It was also chosen as the ending theme for TBS’s “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki,” winning over even more listeners.

It’s a track that evokes the arrival of spring, perfect for graduations and farewell scenes.

Cherry Blossom MoonSakurazaka46

How about listening to a song that captures the bittersweetness of youth, with pure emotions that really seep into your heart? Brought to you by Sakurazaka46, this piece delicately portrays the feelings of young people whose hearts are stirred during graduation season.

The imagery of emotions likened to cherry blossom petals and the aching inability to put one’s feelings into words for someone special resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2023, it sold 349,000 copies in its first week on the Oricon Singles Chart, earning the number-one spot.

This is a song I especially recommend for spring—the season when expectations and anxieties about a new life, the loneliness of changing routines, and feelings for someone all intersect.