Japanese Pop Sakura Song Rankings [2026]

Sakura RockCHERRYBLOSSOM16rank/position

Sakura Rock

CHERRYBLOSSOM is a band known for its appealing female dual vocals that unfortunately disbanded in 2010.

Their song “Sakura Rock” is their fourth single, released in 2009, and it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime “Katekyo Hitman Reborn!” The lyrics express how, when the cherry blossom season arrives, you think, “It’s that time of year again,” and remember someone.

That someone was once important but is no longer by your side.

It’s a cherry blossom song packed with a sense of poignancy, set to a rock-influenced sound.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

Cherry Blossom Timeaiko17rank/position

aiko - “Sakura no Toki” music video

Aiko’s songs, which attract a wide audience—especially many female fans—often resonate with listeners through the emotions in her love songs.

“Sakura no Toki,” her fifth single released in 2000, was also featured in a Calpis Water commercial.

Aiko’s lyrics frequently make you think, “So it’s possible to express those in-love feelings I could never put into words like this!” and this song showcases that expressive power in a direct way.

It’s a love song that fills you with happiness—perfect for the buoyant mood of spring.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

Sakuraayaka18rank/position

Ayaka / “Sakura” (from the LIVE DVD & Blu-ray “Acoustic Live Tour 2017–2018 ~3-STAR RAW~”)

Speaking of sakura songs, given the season, many of them are graduation songs or songs about new beginnings.

Ayaka’s “Sakura” is also a very popular number as a graduation song.

What’s noteworthy about this track is that the first verse is written from the perspective of young people graduating, while the second verse depicts those who graduated long ago—people who, having grown older, watch their own children graduate and set off, reflecting on the path they’ve walked and on their own graduation.

Ayaka’s vocals blend with the indescribably heartrending lyrics to create a song that makes you feel tears welling up.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

cherry blossoms drifting awayUtada Hikaru19rank/position

Hikaru Utada “Sakura Nagashi” Music Video (4K UPGRADE)

A deeply moving ballad that sings of the preciousness of life and feelings for loved ones.

It begins with the quiet tones of a piano and unfolds dramatically toward the latter half, with a gentle yet powerful vocal performance that leaves a strong impression.

The message of finding a certain love even within sorrow truly hits home.

Released by Hikaru Utada in November 2012 during her hiatus, the song drew major attention as the theme for the film Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo.

Later included on the album Fantôme, it also captivates with a worldview that beautifully expresses cherry blossoms scattering.

In the spring season of change—graduations, new class assignments—take a moment to listen to it carefully in a quiet place.

After the cherry blossoms (all quartets lead to the?)UNISON SQUARE GARDEN20rank/position

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN 'After the Cherry Blossoms (all quartets lead to the?)' MV

The exhilarating sound and vocals might clear your mind in an instant! This track by the three-piece rock band UNISON SQUARE GARDEN was released in 2013 as their eighth single.

It was used as the opening theme for the anime Yozakura Quartet: Hana no Uta.

It’s got that signature sharp, punchy production that they’re known for—packed with highlights like crisp guitar cutting and a wildly active bassline.

The positive lyrics about “enjoying the moment” are truly empowering.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem