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A Collection of Japanese Songs to Hype Up Your Drive [BGM]

If you like going on long drives and trips, you’ll know how important the music you listen to in the car is.

A clear sky, scenery passing by, and music that gets you pumped—just imagining it is the best, isn’t it? It really is the best.

In this article, I’ll be introducing lots of high-energy tracks that are perfect for driving.

I’ve tried to cover a wide range of genres, so if you find something you like, dig deeper from there and put together your own playlist!

Compilation of Japanese songs to hype up your drive [BGM] (21–30)

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” Live Music Video
Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band that delivers a colorful, catchy sound you wouldn’t expect from a three-piece.

Their 2015 release “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is an upbeat track that cranks up the energy on any drive.

Written specifically as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront, it features technical guitar riffs and a surging bassline that pop with bright clarity.

It’s a perfect pick for those who can’t contain their excitement on the way to theme parks or sightseeing spots.

Bright red bunnyt-Ace

t-Ace “Bright Red Bunny” (Official Video)
Bright red bunnyt-Ace

Rapper t-Ace, especially popular among young people, is known for hype tracks that perfectly match his striking good looks.

Among his works, a great pick for driving is “Makka na Bunny,” released in 2020.

It’s crafted with a pop, melodious sound that hints at electronica-pop.

His light, nimble flow enveloping the edgy lyrics is also memorable.

Give it a listen on your drive to a party or event.

DriveKetsumeishi

When you’re driving along the coast or on sandy beaches, you can’t help but want to listen to something refreshing.

“Drive,” included on the music group Ketsumeishi’s 2005 release Ketsunopolis 4, is the perfect track for an exciting date.

Its fast-paced tropical sound conjures images of sunsets and beaches.

The smooth hip-hop flow resonates nicely, brightening the mood inside the car.

If you’re stuck on what to use for your driving BGM, be sure to add it to your playlist.

Shock!Sakanakushon

Sakanaction / Shock! -Music Live Video-
Shock!Sakanakushon

Sakanaction is a rock band whose melodies, built on a unique worldview, are truly captivating.

With every new song, they manage to surprise their listeners.

Among their tracks, the one that’s perfect for a drive is Shock!, released in 2022.

It was chosen as the theme song for the film Theatrical Version: Daughter of Lupin.

The Afrobeat-driven sound pairs well with the melodies of Japanese pop, and their signature technopop touches—like airy synths—are part of the charm.

Put it on during a drive and you might find everyone belting out the chorus refrain together.

To Those Who Reach for the StarsDISH//

DISH// – To Those Who Reach for the Stars [Official Live Video]
To Those Who Reach for the StarsDISH//

DISH// is a four-member dance-rock band known for hits like “Neko.” They’re striking for their willingness to take on every kind of musical genre.

Among their songs, one where you can really savor the band sound is “To Those Who Reach for the Stars,” included on their 2021 release “CIRCLE.” It’s an exhilarating rock track overflowing with drive, highlighted by their resonant choral work.

How about making this upbeat, feel-good rock number your driving BGM?

CLIMAXT-SQUARE

This is a quintessential T-SQUARE piece that stokes the exhilaration of a racing scene.

Featured on their 50th album, VENTO DE FELICIDADE ~Shiawase no Kaze~, released in May 2023 to mark the 45th anniversary of their debut, this track was written specifically as the theme song for the Japanese-dubbed version of the film Gran Turismo and became a hot topic.

Performed by a star-studded lineup including both current and former members, with special guest Kazumi Watanabe, the layered tones of multiple EWIs are nothing short of breathtaking.

We can confidently recommend it as the perfect companion for a refreshing weekend drive.

ADRENALIZEDMizuki Nana

Nana Mizuki “ADRENALIZED” Music Clip
ADRENALIZEDMizuki Nana

A digital rock tune that turns 500 km/h-class speed into sound, linking with the world of an anime depicting next-generation racing! Sung by Nana Mizuki, this track is her 42nd single, released in April 2024, and it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime HIGHSPEED Étoile.

The sharp beats, driving drums, and powerful vocals layered on top create a thrilling impact that makes your adrenaline surge just by listening! If you play it before a do-or-die moment, it’s guaranteed to give you the power to floor the accelerator and surge forward!