[Summer Songs] Stylish Japanese Hits: A Collection of Masterpieces That Bring a Refreshing Breeze
A must-see for anyone looking for soothing music to accompany your summer memories! In this article, we’ll introduce stylish Japanese songs that will make your summer even more memorable.
There are actually plenty of chic summer tracks you’ll want to share with someone.
From breezy city pop that evokes a refreshing wind, to slightly bittersweet summer love songs, to cool numbers perfect for a drive…
Why not spend an unforgettable summer with timeless tunes that vividly color every scene of the season?
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[Summer Songs] Stylish Japanese Hit Tracks: A Collection of Timeless Tunes Bringing a Refreshing Breeze (1–10)
Summer Dreamin’Hirai Dai
An emotional power-pop tune that rivals the midsummer sun colors the passing season in vivid hues.
It’s a song by Dai Hirai, a popular singer-songwriter known for his comfortable, surf music–influenced sound.
This piece is the title track of a digital EP released in July 2024.
The bittersweet yet uplifting lyrics are like a spell that makes limited time with someone special shine.
Listen to it on a summer drive, and together with the breeze streaming in through the window, it will help create unforgettable memories.
graceFuji Kaze
A grand and beautiful ballad perfect for listening under the dazzling summer sun.
This piece was released in October 2022 by Fujii Kaze, a singer-songwriter also known for his exceptional piano performances.
Many of you may recognize it as it was featured in an NTT Docomo project commercial.
As evidenced by the instrumental version sometimes performed at dome shows as “summer grace,” its sound matches summer scenery perfectly.
When worries and anxieties keep you from taking a step forward, it will gently embrace your heart and give you a supportive push.
Pineapple JuiceINI
A languid yet comfortable groove invites you on a never-ending tropical vacation—this is city pop at its finest.
Featured on the album “THE ORIGIN,” releasing in June 2025.
Member Yufeng Fan contributes to the lyrics for the first time, crafting a theme of a “sweet-and-sour summer,” capturing those moments whole—like sipping a juice—brimming with fresh, vivid feelings.
Perfect for summer drives or for lifting your mood on a hot day! Put this track on and turn everyday life into a refreshing vacation.
[Summer Songs] Stylish Japanese Hit Tracks: A Collection of Classics That Bring a Refreshing Breeze (11–20)
MINTSuchmos
A cool number that brings a pleasant breeze to a languid summer afternoon.
This track by the Kanagawa-born band Suchmos is the lead song from their EP “MINT CONDITION,” released in July 2016.
Its airy sound, infused with jazz and soul, is like a sudden shower that cools the heat radiating off the asphalt.
The music video, a collaboration with the jeans brand Levi’s, won Best New Artist Video (Japan) at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan 2016.
It’s a perfect pick for anyone looking to drift away from the hustle of city life and savor a stylish summer moment.
Amber-Hued City, Morning of Shanghai Crabskururi
A comfortable number that brings an urban, stylish summer mood.
Created by Quruli, a Kyoto-born band, in July 2016 to mark their 20th anniversary, it features an innovative sound that leans into R&B and hip-hop.
Many listeners have likely been hooked by the contrast between its chic sound and unconventional lyrics.
The catchy chorus refrain is the kind that, once you hear it, you can’t help but hum along.
It’s a stylish track that fits perfectly with a summer drive or a slightly sentimental night.
Summer MemoriesKetsumeishi
Ketsumeishi creates a truly unique sound through the contrast between their striking tracks and melodic rap.
Released in July 2003, their 10th single has become a beloved summer staple in J-pop.
It resonates with a bittersweet longing for the end of joyful times, paired with a refreshing spirit that looks toward tomorrow.
The song was featured in a Vodafone commercial and included on the acclaimed album Ketsuno Police 3.
With its emotional, memorable chorus, it’s a pop tune perfect for late-summer drives or time spent with friends.
SummertimeFIVE NEW OLD
A gem of a summer tune that beautifully captures memories of summer and the stirrings of romance.
Its sweet melody—blending wistfulness with excitement—and lyrics that vividly depict summer days leave a strong impression.
Included on the album “MUSIC WARDROBE,” released in April 2021, the music video—expressing both a sense of confinement and liberation—also drew attention.
It’s an emotional track that accompanies those special summer moments with someone dear, like seaside dates and summer festivals, adding a memorable page to your season.