Timeless Ballads to Enjoy in Spring: From Classics to the Newest Hits, All in One Guide

First loveMurashita Kōzō

Kozo Murashita “Hatsukoi” Music Video

It’s one of Kozo Murashita’s signature songs, gently wrapping you in the bittersweet memories of youth.

Released in February 1983, it became a massive hit, reaching No.

6 on Oricon’s year-end chart.

The track is included on the album “Hatsukoi — Asaki Yume Mishi.” Its lyrics, filled with tender first-love feelings and poignant longing, vividly revive the memories of a first love that everyone has experienced.

It’s a song I especially recommend for those encountering new meetings or farewells with the arrival of spring.

Murashita’s gentle voice will warm your heart.

The last spring breakMatsutōya Yumi

Saigo No Haruyasumi

It’s a classic song that delicately portrays parting in spring.

Set to Yumi Matsutoya’s gentle melody, it softly unfolds the bittersweet feelings of a girl on the verge of graduation.

Included on the album “OLIVE,” released in 1979, it was later adapted into the TBS drama “Rouge no Dengon.” Listening to it under the spring sunlight brings back nostalgic memories and unforgettable romances.

It’s a perfect track for anyone feeling anxious about starting a new chapter.

Matsutoya’s tender vocals will soothe your heart and give you courage.

When the cherry blossoms bloomWatanabe Misato

Misato Watanabe — When the Cherry Blossoms Bloom

An image of cherry blossoms comes to mind as the spring breeze blows.

Misato Watanabe’s song is a classic released in 1988.

Although it wasn’t tied in with any films or TV dramas, it resonated deeply with many people.

The piece carries a message of turning every experience—days of quarrels or giving up, as well as moments of joy and hardship—into something that shines.

In the spring, when you’re stepping into a new environment, or when you want to immerse yourself in memories of the past, why not give this song a listen? Misato Watanabe’s warm voice will surely wrap your heart in gentle comfort.

Goodbye, my beloved.Hana＊Hana

Hana*Hana “Goodbye, My Beloved”

This song can be called a signature piece by Hana*Hana, one that straightforwardly expresses the sorrow of parting from someone dear.

It is said to be based on member Izumi Kojima’s memories, depicting her feelings for her grandfather who passed away when she was sixteen.

Centered on the piano, the sound emphasizes a sense of poignancy and sadness; as the strings gradually join, the sweeping development conveys an emotion that can no longer be contained.

With content that brings the magnitude of love and the magnitude of grief at the same time, the piece also conveys a strong resolve to keep cherishing those feelings even after the farewell.

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Best FriendNishino Kana

[75th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen Performance Song] 'Best Friend' MV Full

A heartwarming ballad filled with gratitude and love for friendship.

Kana Nishino’s straightforward lyrics, which express her feelings for her friends, truly resonate.

Released in February 2010, the song was also used for NTT Docomo’s exam-support campaign.

Even if you feel things like, “Because you were there, every day was fun,” or “No matter how many times I say thank you, it’ll never be enough,” it can be a bit embarrassing to say them directly.

Listening to this song together with the people you care about in spring—when graduations and new school terms bring change—can help you reaffirm your feelings for each other and take the first step together into a new stage.

My town, tomorrow’s townTakahashi Hitomi

Hitomi Takahashi – Atashi no Machi, Ashita no Machi (Audio Only)

Released after Hitomi Takahashi graduated from high school, this song was chosen as one of the opening themes for the anime Library Wars.

Released in June 2008, the track powerfully expresses the resolve to leave one’s hometown and take a new step forward.

Beginning with an evening landscape, the lyrics convey gratitude to loved ones and hope for the future, resonating warmly with listeners.

It’s a recommended song for those starting a new chapter in life or facing major changes.

Listening to it in spring may make it resonate even more deeply.

Lingering Snowiruka

Nagori-yuki – Iruka

Many artists have sung “Nagori Yuki,” but my favorite is Iruka’s version.

As you know, the original was written and composed by Shozo Ise and released by the folk band Kaguyahime.

The lyrics, which depict a farewell on a train platform, resonate in the listener’s heart like the final scene of a film.

The line about growing up through repeated farewells hits harder the older you get.

Iruka’s voice is so gentle it almost brings you to tears.

With a new life beginning this spring, I hope you’ll listen to this song and do your best!