You'll surely remember your youth. Spring songs recommended for people in their 40s.

When cherry-blossom hues danceMika Nakashima

Mika Nakashima 'Sakurairo Maukoro' Music Video

A classic song that overlays the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms with the bittersweetness of spring and memories of love.

The delicate piano and string arrangement strikingly highlights Mika Nakashima’s deep vocals.

While accepting partings and change, it beautifully expresses the yearning for eternity alongside the scenes of cherry blossoms, a hallmark of spring in Japan.

Released in February 2005, this work was also included on the album “MUSIC” in March of the same year.

With its straightforward emotional expression and lyrical melody line, it’s a moving piece—highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in the poignant feelings that come with the arrival of spring.

CHE.R.RYYUI

YUI　『CHE.R.RY-short ver.-』

This song, which could be considered one of YUI’s signature tracks, refreshingly portrays the spark of romance that begins with a cellphone’s vibration.

The lyrics vividly and honestly express the budding feelings that grow through exchanging emails and the pure, irresistible urge to reply.

Paired with a light, acoustic guitar-driven sound, it creates an atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring.

Released in March 2007, the track is included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE,” and was also featured in commercials for KDDI and Okinawa Cellular’s “LISMO!” service.

In addition, it was used as the ending theme for the anime “ReLIFE: Final Arc.” It’s a recommended listen for anyone who wants to recall the sweet beginnings of love or savor the feeling of spring.

SAKURAIkimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “SAKURA” Music Video

Ikimono-gakari’s major-label debut is marked by a warm melody and delicate arrangement that gently envelop the themes of spring’s arrival and parting.

Weaving in local scenery such as the Sagami River and the Odakyu Line, it brilliantly conveys the pounding hearts of young people embarking on new beginnings, as well as their bittersweet farewells to cherished memories.

Exceptional in its polish for a debut track, it captured the hearts of many listeners.

Released in March 2006, the song was featured in NTT East’s “DENPO115” TV commercial.

Now a staple often heard during graduation season, it’s a recommended track not only for those setting off on a new path, but also for anyone wishing to bask in nostalgic memories.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9

A blessing song composed for a wedding has become a beloved spring classic across generations.

Its lyrics gently portray the transition from winter to spring, and the flowing melody resonates deeply.

Created to celebrate a member’s friend’s wedding, the piece gracefully weaves together gratitude for loved ones and hope for the future.

Released in March 2004 as Remioromen’s second major single, it was featured in a commercial for AOKI Holdings and as the ending theme for TBS’s “Pooh!”.

In 2005, it was also used as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears,” further boosting its recognition.

This is a highly recommended track for moments when you want to reflect on the changing seasons in everyday life and the bonds you share with those dear to you.

cherry blossomNaotaro Moriyama

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

Moriyama Naotaro’s signature work, which gracefully portrays encounters and farewells, brought a fresh breeze to the J-pop scene.

Its striking piano melody, grand string arrangement, and clear vocals weave scenes that resonate deeply with the arrival of spring.

Released in March 2003, the song was used as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizaki” and sold over one million copies.

In 2020, it was also featured in a commercial for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Calorie Mate.

Its universal message—overlaying the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms with life’s turning points—continues to gently encourage people as they take new steps at occasions such as graduation and school entrance ceremonies.

SakurazakaMasaharu Fukuyama

Masaharu Fukuyama – Sakurazaka (Full ver.)

A timeless masterpiece that gently cradles the feelings of a lost love, overflowing with bittersweet longing and tenderness.

Its sweet melody and emotionally rich vocals weave a heart-stirring love ballad that portrays a love unchanged even after a farewell.

Released in April 2000 as Masaharu Fukuyama’s 15th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the “Mirai Nikki V” segment of TBS’s “Unnan no Hontoko!” and ranked second on Oricon’s annual singles chart that year.

Healing hearts and resonating with many throughout the year, this song is perfect for the spring season.

While carrying the pain of parting, it conveys a pure wish for the other person’s happiness—an exquisite love song to listen to during spring’s farewells and new encounters.

HURRY GO ROUNDhide with Spread Beaver

hide with Spread Beaver – HURRY GO ROUND

A delicate yet grand number by hide with Spread Beaver that symbolically portrays a life that keeps circling on.

Though it employs irregular rhythms, its soothing melody and pop-leaning arrangement gently envelop the listener.

It expresses the profound themes of life and death through the changing seasons and the cycles of nature.

Released in October 1998, the track was also included on the album Ja,Zoo.

A recommended song for those who wish to quietly reflect on life’s repetitions with the arrival of spring.