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A cheerful song about cherry blossoms—a classic that captures the feeling of spring.

Cherry blossoms are a quintessential symbol of spring in Japan.

In the world of music, too, there have long been many songs about cherry blossoms, and we hear lots of “sakura songs” every year.

Some lyrics portray the beauty of the blossoms, some announce the arrival of spring, and others overlay emotions like graduation and romance onto the image of sakura—there’s a wide variety.

The musical styles are equally diverse.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of cheerful sakura songs from among the many out there.

We’ve focused on up-tempo tracks and pop-leaning tunes, so enjoy listening while soaking up the spring vibes.

A bright, cherry blossom–themed song. A classic that captures the feeling of spring (71–80)

Cherry blossomSeiko Matsuda

[HD] Seiko Matsuda / Cherry Blossom (1981)
Cherry Blossom Seiko Matsuda

Cherry Blossom, with its brilliant melody and Seiko Matsuda’s soaring vocals, is a perfect fit for spring.

As her fourth single since debut, the song radiates a fresh, invigorating, quintessential idol charm.

You can easily picture cherry blossoms blooming under the crisp spring sky.

The lyrics evoke the feeling of being reborn in spring when the sakura bloom—starting a new love and brimming with excitement for the future.

The song as a whole has a distinctly feminine vibe, making it a cherry-blossom tune especially recommended for women!

cherry blossomNaotaro Moriyama

Calorie Mate CM | “Invisible Things” Full Version – Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (2020 Chorus)
Sakura Moriyama Naotaro

This is the second single by singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama, who made his major debut in 2002.

It’s the song that catapulted Moriyama to fame and is now considered one of the quintessential “sakura” songs.

However, at the time of his debut, Moriyama was so busy that he reportedly didn’t even realize his own song had become a hit.

With a simple arrangement of just piano and vocals, the track beautifully showcases his exceptional vocal ability.

2019年には、テレビドラマ『同期のサクラ』の主題歌としての起用オファーを受け、アレンジ版がリリースされた。

Hiiragi’s Homeroom), bringing it to an even wider audience across generations.

Cherry Blossom MoonSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46, whose group name also includes the word “sakura,” released Sakurazuki in 2023, a song about a heartbreaking farewell.

Its beautiful melody, which conjures up the fleeting scene of cherry blossoms scattering, heightens the song’s sadness.

It portrays a parting at graduation: someone dear goes far away, yet they separate without ever expressing their desire not to be apart—or their love.

Like the short life of cherry blossoms, the song evokes memories of youth that pass in an instant and bittersweet feelings, while conveying a wish to live with the strength and dignity of the sakura.

cherry blossomShota Shimizu

Shota Shimizu “Sakura” MV
Shota Sakura Shimizu

This song, with its memorable, sentimental lyrics about seeing cherry blossoms in spring and being reminded of a former lover, is by Shota Shimizu.

One of Shimizu’s greatest charms is his beautifully clear, translucent voice, and you can feel that appeal in abundance here.

In particular, the chorus—where he switches between chest voice and falsetto—paired with the pure feelings depicted in the lyrics, is moving enough to bring you to tears.

It’s a recommended track when you’re in the mood for a calm, beautiful song.

Harusaki KobeniAkiko Yano

Here is a classic song that gently portrays the season of dancing cherry blossoms.

Its hopeful lyrics, heralding the arrival of spring, and its warm, soothing melody give courage and smiles to everyone taking a new step forward.

Released in February 1981, the song reached No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, sold over 370,000 copies, and warmed the hearts of many.

It also ranked on the TV program “The Best Ten.” Perfect for the season when new beginnings start, this track carries a pleasant breeze.

Listen to it while enjoying hanami, and the beauty of spring will shine even more.

Sakura AleKana Adachi

It’s a song that says, “I like the time before the cherry blossoms bloom,” because that’s when you can be with someone important.

It’s a farewell song, but it doesn’t dwell on sadness; instead, it’s bright and pop, expressing a determination to move forward into the future in our own ways.

It also carries a message of cheering on those dear friends.

You can almost picture cherry blossom buds in your mind.

Dreams and Leaf-Cherry TreesGekkou Aoki

Nightcore – Dream and Leaf Cherry Blossoms // Yume to Hazakura [Wotamin Cover] Original song by: Aoki Gekkoh
Dreams and Leaf Cherries Aoki Gekko

Yume to Hazakura evokes a refined elegance in its portrayal of cherry blossoms painted with a distinctly Japanese sensibility.

Released in 2011, the song was crafted by Aoki Gekkou, a trio of Vocaloid producers.

Just like the breathtaking sight of cherry trees in full bloom, moments of beauty and joy pass by like fleeting dreams.

While reminiscing about those happy times, the lyrics also depict a determination to live strongly in the present.

It’s a song that can empower anyone beginning a new chapter in spring.