Japanese Pop ‘Sakura’ Song Rankings [2025]

Even if we forget springivy color22rank/position

Ivy Color [Even If We Forget Spring] Music Video

Set against a flurry of cherry blossoms, this work poignantly portrays a scene of parting.

Ivy to Color’s delicate lyrics and nostalgic piano melodies seep deep into the heart.

Released in March 2019 as the single’s title track, it beautifully expresses both the hope that comes with spring’s arrival and the melancholy of farewell.

It resonates even more strongly when heard during graduation season or the start of a new chapter.

Recommended for anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear against a springtime backdrop, it stands as a signature piece that fully showcases Ivy to Color’s musicality.

Sakura MitsutsukiSPYAIR23rank/position

Sakura Mitsutsuki

Set against a fantastical scene of cherry blossoms dancing beneath a full moon, this work beautifully portrays feelings for what has been lost and hopes for new bonds.

Released in March 2013 as SPYAIR’s 10th single, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Gintama and was also included on the album MILLION, becoming one of the band’s signature songs.

It’s a track that accompanies those who want to reminisce with a loved one while gazing at springtime blossoms, or who keep waiting for someone dear.

Even while carrying loneliness, it gently pushes forward those seeking new encounters.

Come, spring.Yumi Matsutoya24rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

A tender, bittersweet portrayal of early spring, this gem by Yumi Matsutoya seeps into the heart.

Its lyrics, which beautifully harmonize nostalgia for days gone by, parting from a beloved, and hope for a new season, together with a universal melody infused with traditional Japanese elements, resonate deeply with listeners.

Featured on the album “THE DANCING SUN,” released in November 1994, and used as the theme song for an NHK morning drama series, this piece will gently stay by your side when you need courage to face hardships, when you long to reunite with someone dear, and when you await the arrival of spring.

Dear Sir or Madam, on this day when cherry blossoms flutterMafumafu25rank/position

[MV] Dear Sir/Madam, On This Day When Cherry Blossoms Flutter Down / Mafumafu [Shonen Janmaga Gakuen]

This is a coming-of-age song that stays close to the heart in the season when cherry blossoms scatter.

The story of school-day memories and farewells depicted by Mafumafu is woven with delicate imagery that vividly brings school life back to mind.

Feelings of being unable to be honest, regrets, and hopes for the future gently begin to resonate with the melody.

The track was included in the album “Kagurairo Artifact,” released in October 2019, and was used as the theme song for the website “Shonen Janmaga Gakuen.” It’s a song you’ll want to listen to during the spring graduation season, offering comfort to those looking back on the past as they take a new step forward.

cherry blossomKyogo Kawaguchi26rank/position

Kyogo Kawaguchi – Sakura

A heartwarming ballad that gently sings of the cherry blossom season.

Kyogo Kawaguchi’s warm vocals envelop the listener’s heart.

Released in December 2003, the song became a major hit, reaching No.

4 on the weekly Oricon chart and No.

9 for the year.

The lyrics express a resolve to walk into the future with a loved one, evoking the arrival of a new season.

The background that it was created with the relationship between Doraemon and Nobita in mind also adds to the song’s warmth.

Celebrating an eternal bond through cherry blossoms that herald the coming of spring, this is a track you’ll want to listen to with someone special.

It’s also recommended for those starting a new chapter in life.

Sakura RabbitTakaya Kawasaki27rank/position

Takanori Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Here is a graduation song filled with bittersweet feelings, bathed in the gentle light of spring.

The melody woven by Takaya Kawasaki delicately conveys, with his tender vocals, the emotions of a protagonist who cannot express their feelings in a classroom where cherry blossoms dance in March.

The soft metaphor of likening a boy who can’t be honest about his feelings to a rabbit is especially striking.

Released in January 2021, this piece is also included on the album “Nukumori,” and it has soothed the hearts of many.

It’s a song you’ll want to play while driving through the city, carried by a fresh spring breeze.

Perfect for the graduation season, for moments of reminiscing about youth, or for warming thoughts of someone dear.

petalback number28rank/position

back number – Hanabira (full)

Speaking of back number, “Hanataba” is one of their signature songs.

They’re great at writing flower-themed tracks, and a song called “Hanabira” is just as moving as “Hanataba”! This track kicks off with a nicely overdriven guitar, and the momentary stop in the backing during the first verse is an irresistible touch.

There’s also a quick break right before the chorus, which adds a perfect bit of spice to build it up.

The emotionally charged lyrics, which recall a spring romance and capture feelings for a girlfriend that are about to overflow, are also a must-hear!