Popular Spring Songs Ranking [2026]

STEP TO YOU40mP92rank/position

(English sub)【Hatsune Miku 40mP】STEP TO YOU（PV version)

The percussion rhythm is so fun, it makes you want to sway your body.

This is a song by Vocaloid producer 40mP, who gained attention when “The Boy and the Magical Robot” was featured on NHK’s music program Minna no Uta.

It was released in 2009.

The lyrics are striking—bittersweet yet hopeful—expressing a desire to face someone important head-on.

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Araki Jakkan

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YELLikimonogakari93rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

Let us introduce one of Ikimono-gakari’s signature spring songs that brings back memories of holding back tears while singing at graduation ceremonies.

Included on their 15th single released in September 2009, this track was written specifically as the set piece for the junior high division of NHK’s National School Music Competition.

Amidst a grand sound woven by piano and strings, Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, pure vocals seep into the heart.

The lyrics are striking in that they portray parting not only as sorrow, but as an important first step toward pursuing one’s dreams; the protagonist’s determination to move forward while accepting their own weaknesses is deeply moving.

Its warm message—that the bonds with your friends will never fade no matter how far apart you are—will stir your heart every time you listen.

The fact that it became the group’s first No.

1 on the Oricon chart shows how profoundly it resonated with many people.

When spring arrives with its mix of anticipation and anxiety for a new chapter in life, give this song a listen to feel a gentle push at your back.

a May flyRADWIMPS94rank/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.

petalback number95rank/position

back number – Hanabira (full)

A bittersweet rock number that makes past memories resurface in fleeting moments during the season when cherry blossoms flutter.

As a major-label debut single by the band back number—known for relatable, true-to-life lyrics—it was released in April 2011.

It was also chosen as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s program “JAPAN COUNTDOWN,” and remains beloved by many as the band’s origin point.

This work delicately portrays the feeling of recalling someone precious who once stood by your side, in stark contrast to the beautiful scenery of spring.

The strings resonating within the band’s sound tighten your chest as you listen.

The words woven by vocalist Iyori Shimizu gently reach deep into the listener’s heart.

Perfect for when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood with the arrival of spring.

Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro96rank/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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cherry blossoms drifting awayUtada Hikaru97rank/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.

Morning of the BeginningOfisharu Higedan Dism98rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Morning of the Beginning [Official Audio]

This is a song that captures the arrival of spring with a refreshing touch.

It portrays the mingled feelings of excitement and anxiety that come with a new life, alongside scenes like the sky visible from a station exit and a tree-lined avenue.

The protagonist strives to move forward while staying true to themselves in a new environment, offering moments anyone can relate to.

The track appears as the first song on the mini-album “Report,” released in April 2017, and is one of the defining works from Official HIGE DANDism’s indie era.

Vocalist Satoshi Fujihara wrote and composed it based on his experience entering high school, crafting a pop-rock number that’s perfect for the start of a new school term or a new chapter in spring.

It’s recommended for those who feel both anticipation and unease before a fresh start, or who want a push as they embark on a new life in spring.

Its brisk rhythm and bright melody line will give you the courage to take that first step forward.