[Reiwa Spring Songs] A roundup of spring songs born in the Reiwa era and popular tracks you’ll want to listen to in spring!

Love WindIkuta Rira

Lila Ikuta “Koikaze” Official Music Video

A single with a refreshing feel, like a gentle breeze blowing through.

Released by YOASOBI’s vocalist, Lila Ikuta, in April 2025, this song was written as the theme for ABEMA’s show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita: New Zealand Edition.” It marks her third time handling the theme song for the series, making it a familiar presence for fans of the program.

The lyrics capture the mix of hope and anxiety at the start of love, gently giving listeners a push forward.

Carried by her translucent voice, it’s a cheering song that gives you the courage to take a new step.

Try singing it with your feelings for someone special in mind, or to rally yourself.

Late-blooming cherry blossomsAKB48

Nagorizakura

A spring song with a poignant, nostalgic melody perfectly suited to the season of meetings and farewells.

The title track of AKB48’s 67th single, released in February 2026, portrays a bittersweet longing for the days of youth that have passed, along with a faint hope for the future.

Nineteenth-generation member Momoka Ito was chosen as center, making this an important song that heralds a new beginning in the group’s 21st year.

The coupling tracks include a unique concept song born from the TV program “Yasushi Akimoto vs AI Yasushi Akimoto,” offering a multifaceted appeal.

It carries a warmth that makes you want to stop and listen during that time when you take off your school uniform and step into a new world, filled with both anxiety and anticipation.

Before the departureWANIMA

WANIMA 'Before the Departure' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is a rousing cheer song written for the project “Fight! Kyushu,” which aims to energize Kyushu.

Released by WANIMA as a digital-only single in April 2021, it also drew attention when it was unveiled as a surprise at the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks’ season opener ceremony.

Riding on a brisk, fast-paced sound, it powerfully pushes forward those who strive ahead despite anxiety and doubt.

Its fiery message urging listeners to “hang in there” is sure to resonate especially in spring, a season of big changes.

It’s a high-energy track you’ll want to play to rally yourself when you feel like faltering in a new life phase or challenge.

Philadelphia fleabaneYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Halzion” Official Music Video

It’s a spring song filled with an uplifting message about overcoming heartbreak and discovering a new self.

Released in May 2020 by YOASOBI, a duo that turns novels into music, it’s based on Shunki Hashizume’s story “Soredemo, Happy End.” It’s also known for numerous tie-ins, including a collaboration with the beverage brand ZONe, serving as the theme song for the theater group No Meets’ production “Mukou no Kuni,” and appearing in a Nintendo commercial.

Its driving beat and crystal-clear vocals gently lift a heavy heart.

The lyrics, which affirm past love and move toward the future, are sure to give you a push in this season of change.

Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

DISH// – Sweet Daphne [Official Video]

Spring is a season where excitement and anxiety about a new environment mingle.

In such times, this heartwarming mid-tempo ballad gently gives you a push.

Its message—“there’s a place to come home to”—gives you the courage to move forward.

Released by DISH// as a single in 2021, the song was chosen as the theme for the drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success.” It drew attention for being co-written by member Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu, and it’s also included on the album TRIANGLE.

Brimming with the frustration of not being able to express gratitude straightforwardly and with love for those who watch over you, this is a song you’ll want anyone standing at a life crossroads—like exams or job hunting—to hear.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

Nogizaka46, known for their pure aura and strong expressive power, have garnered widespread support.

Their 16th single, released in November 2016, is also known for being the group’s first to ship a million copies.

It served as the final song for Nanami Hashimoto, who took center position, and its lyrics—turning farewells into strength—are perfect for March, a month full of graduations, transfers, and goodbyes.

Despite having no tie-ins with dramas or other media, the song’s message resonated with many, leading to a performance at the 67th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.

Its beautiful melody, marked by a memorable piano tone, evokes feelings that are both bittersweet and warm.

It’s a gentle push on the back for those who, despite their anxieties, are trying to step forward into a new world.

apple pieRyukku to soine gohan

apple pie

Songs by Ryutokuto Soine Gohan that you’ll want to listen to in the gentle sunlight of spring.

The lyrics, which sing of the preciousness of everyday life, quietly nestle up to the listener’s heart.

Originally included as a live recording on a limited single in 2021, a long-awaited studio version was featured on the album “Shiki,” released in November 2022.

The brisk shuffle beat and warm band sound gently embrace a message that vows a love unchanging with age.

It’s a perfect number for strolling along the river or sharing tea with someone special.

Enjoy it as background music for a leisurely afternoon, gathered around delicious sweets.