Japanese Pop Spring Song Ranking [2026]

a May flyRADWIMPS92rank/position

RADWIMPS – May’s Flies [Official Music Video]

They cemented their status as a band thanks to the massive hit of Zenzenzense, the insert song from the blockbuster film Your Name.

In contrast to the fresh, clean-cut image many associate with RADWIMPS, May’s Fly is a track with a slightly different vibe.

When it was released, its extreme lyrics became a hot topic on social media and the internet.

The lyrics relentlessly mock and tear down the other person—singing it at karaoke might take a bit of courage…

It’s a song to note not only for its eerie atmosphere but also for its artistic cover art.

Sakura, You, and Ituki.93rank/position

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

This is the third single by singer-songwriter tuki., who enjoys immense support for their delicate lyrics and expressive vocals.

Released in January 2024, some listeners may remember it being used as an insert song in the romance show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.

Graduation Edition 2024.” Set to a gentle acoustic guitar melody, the lyrics depict a bittersweet farewell and a fleeting love alongside scenes of cherry blossoms.

It portrays the sense of loss felt at major turning points in life and how past memories are etched deeply in the heart, making it a ballad that tightens your chest as you listen.

How about using it as spring BGM to enhance an Instagram Reel featuring beautiful cherry blossom scenery?

Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro94rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – “Sakura (2019)” Music Video

Singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama, known for his unique personality and frequent appearances on variety shows.

“Sakura (2019),” used as the theme song for the TV drama ‘My Coworker Sakura,’ is a rearranged version of his second single “Sakura (Dokushō),” one of the pioneering cherry blossom songs in the J-pop scene.

The lyrical melody, with its distinctive falsetto that heightens the sense of poignancy, instantly evokes images of graduation ceremonies.

With its dramatic piano and string ensemble that stirs the heart, it’s a quintessential graduation song.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya95rank/position

Takaya Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO]

Singer-songwriter Takaya Kawasaki, who became known to a wide range of listeners thanks to the explosive, SNS-driven success of Magic Carpet, released this track in January 2021.

Centered on graduation and unrequited love, it pairs an acoustic sound with his husky, emotional vocals that truly move the heart.

The timid protagonist, unable to confess feelings that have grown over three years, is likened to a “rabbit,” which is heartbreakingly poignant.

Many people can relate to the bittersweet ache of only being able to gaze at the one you love as cherry blossoms flutter around you.

The song is also included on the album Warmth.

It’s a deeply touching track, perfect for posting a spring memory as a story.

cherry blossoms drifting awayUtada Hikaru96rank/position

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

This is a ballad that was suddenly released during a period described as a “human activities” hiatus, and it quickly became a major topic of conversation.

Centered on themes of requiem, the birth of life, and unwavering love, its piano melodies and serene electronic tones seep gently into the heart.

Released by Hikaru Utada in November 2012, the song was written as the theme for the film Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo.

Many listeners were likely moved to tears by its resonance as it played over the end credits.

While layering the transience of falling cherry blossoms, it also evokes hope for the everyday life that continues on.

Try listening to it in a spring marked by farewells, or on a quiet night when you want to settle your heart.

Sakura MitsutsukiSPYAIR97rank/position

Sakura Mitsutsuki

A rock number you’ll want to hear in spring, depicting a night scene with swirling cherry blossoms and a resolve to move forward while holding a precious promise close to your heart.

Set to a driving band sound, it delivers a message that’s both wistful and powerful, the kind that makes your chest tighten every time you listen.

Released as a single in March 2013, it was widely embraced as the opening theme for the anime Gintama.

Rather than dwelling only on parting, this song gives you the courage to start walking, believing you’ll meet again someday.

It’s perfect for those leaping into a new environment, or for a quiet moment gazing up at the night sakura and reflecting.

When spring comesmiwa98rank/position

miwa “When Spring Comes” Music Video

A song by miwa whose gentle melody heralds the arrival of spring and whose wistful yet adorable lyrics capture the heart.

Released in February 2011, it was also chosen as the tie-in song for NTT Docomo’s “Ganbare Jukensei ’10–’11” campaign.

Vividly portraying the sweet-and-sour essence of youth and the hope for a new season, this work stands out for its straightforward message.

It will be a reassuring companion for those carrying anxiety or nerves as they take a new step forward.

May new joy blossom in your heart, just like spring flowers coming into bloom.

A perfect track for spring that lets you recharge with positive energy!