In the cherry blossom season that colors encounters and farewells! Spring songs recommended for people in their 20s
Speaking of people in their twenties, many of you probably still remember your school days like they were yesterday, so when graduation season comes around, those memories come flooding back.
In the J-pop scene, new classic “sakura songs” are born almost every year, but the tracks you listened to in real time tend to feel more meaningful, don’t they?
So this time, we’ve put together a list of spring songs recommended for people in their twenties.
Every track is a gem that’s sure to overlap with your own memories!
In the cherry blossom season that colors meetings and partings! Spring songs recommended for people in their 20s (1–10)
CorrectRADWIMPS
RADWIMPS’s spring track interwoven with a student chorus is a heartwarming piece filled with encouragement for young people approaching graduation.
Its melody gently nudges listeners along the path of self-discovery, and its profound lyrics vividly reflect the raw essence of youth.
Distribution began in January 2024, and the limited-production CD also includes a version featuring the students’ chorus.
Born from a live performance at “18-sai-sai” before its official release, this song is perfect for people in their twenties who want to reminisce before graduation, as well as for anyone about to take a new step forward.
Spring GoesAimer
A gem of a ballad by Aimer that poignantly portrays a fleeting yet beautiful scene.
Released in March 2020 as the theme song for the theatrical anime Fate/stay night [Heaven’s Feel] III.
spring song, Aimer’s soul-stirring vocals beautifully color the world of the work.
Depicting with delicate emotion the intersection of the heroine’s heavy fate and the hope of a new season, the song was also included on the album Walpurgis.
The music video featuring actress Minami Hamabe also drew attention.
In the spring season when meetings and partings intersect, this track resonates deeply with many people as a song that makes you reflect on your bonds with those you hold dear.
sakura colorGReeeeN
An encouraging song that gently portrays the feelings of people leaping into new environments.
While bewildered by unfamiliar scenery and crowds, the image of a young person vowing to reunite with someone dear and striving to move forward leaves a strong impression.
Released by GReeeeN in February 2013, the track was also used in an AOKI commercial, resonating with those embarking on a new chapter in life.
The piece features a warm melody woven from elegant string tones and GReeeeN’s signature powerful vocals.
It’s a number you’ll want to listen to when setting off for a new place for school or work, or when cherishing memories of a loved one you’ll be separated from.
forget-me-notAwesome City Club
Born as an inspiration song for the film “We Made a Beautiful Bouquet,” this track is a refined spring ballad where an urban, stylish sound meets bittersweet lyrics that look back on past love, and the contrasting emotions of male–female twin vocals resonate together.
Depicting scenes of parting and hopes for the future from both perspectives, it deeply connects with listeners’ hearts.
Included on the February 2021 album “Grower,” it won the Excellence Work Award at the 63rd Japan Record Awards.
Awesome City Club also made their first appearance at the 72nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year.
It’s an urban, emotional spring classic—one to play when you want a song that stays close to the memories of farewells that come with the arrival of spring, or when you need the courage to take a new step forward.
Sakurastorm
This is Arashi’s 45th single, highly acclaimed by fans as a lyrical piece that gracefully captures the changing of the seasons.
Its lyrical world, weaving together past memories, the present, and hopes for the future, is brilliantly expressed through a dramatic four-on-the-floor rhythm and strings.
Skillfully incorporating unison and intricate choral work, the song showcases the individuality of all five members and is superbly crafted.
Released in February 2015, it was used as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Ouroboros: Kono Ai Koso, Seigi,” sold 465,000 copies in its first week, and debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
It was later included on the album “Japonism,” and continues to be loved as one of Arashi’s signature songs.
It’s a perfect track for spring, accompanying life’s milestones such as graduation and school entrance ceremonies.
1096Cody Lee (Li)
This is a song by Cody・Lee (李) that earnestly portrays the complex emotions of youth.
Centered on the three years of junior high and high school life, it weaves in memories of farewells with loved ones and the courage to take a new step forward.
Released in February 2023, it also drew attention for its music video filmed in Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture.
The lyrics, spun from vocalist and guitarist Hibiki Takahashi’s real experiences, are paired with a melody that gently embraces accumulating anxieties.
It’s a track that resonates with those facing graduation season—holding onto lingering attachments and regrets from school days, yet determined to move forward.
Sakura Clear SkiesYuri
A heartwarming number by Yuuri that empathizes with those facing graduation and new departures.
Set to gentle melodies of piano and strings, it beautifully expresses gratitude to family and the resolve to take a new step forward.
The lyrics, which capture everyday, ordinary scenes, convey the protagonist’s delicate emotional shifts on the verge of graduation.
Since its release in February 2021, the song has gained buzz primarily on social media and was included on Yuuri’s album “Ichi.” It has earned tremendous support from younger listeners entering graduation season.
A gem of a ballad that quietly stays by the side of anyone grappling with mixed feelings before leaping into a new environment.