Cool songs to listen to in summer: a roundup of music to help you cool down
What kind of songs do you feel like listening to when summer comes?
When we think of summer songs, the usual image is bright, heated themes like the blazing sun, the sea, and romance.
But since summer brings a string of hot days, some of you might be thinking, “I want to listen to songs that make me feel even a little cooler…”
So in this article, I’ll introduce songs—based on their sound, lyrics, and overall vibe—that feel refreshing and can cool you down a bit!
I’ve selected a wide range of tracks, so please try listening to a variety of them.
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Cool songs to listen to in summer: a roundup of music to help you cool down (21–30)
Chilled Soba with Green OnionsCody Rī (Ri)
This song by Cody・Lee (李) is a captivating piece where everyday city life intersects with faint summertime memories.
The lyrics mention several specific places in Tokyo, and seem to depict memories of a past romance and the small joys of daily life—listening to it may stir a sense of nostalgia.
Its light sound, evocative of city pop and indie rock, deftly portrays a scene where the languor of summer, the hustle of the city, and a touch of bittersweet emotion all mingle together.
Included on their major-label debut album, “Heartbeat, Love Letters, and Kindness,” released in May 2022, the track is a special one for the band, with drummer Taki Hara taking the lead in crafting the lyrics together with vocalist Hibiki Takahashi.
If you listen to it at summer dusk or when you suddenly find yourself reminiscing, it’s sure to resonate.
Add it to your playlist as a staple for the season.
Summer has come.≠ME
Isn’t this the one ≠ME track whose sound seems to symbolize a Japanese summer, perfectly suited to dazzling sunshine and blue skies? Showcasing producer Rino Sashihara’s deft touch, the song beautifully captures the flutter of summer crushes, the bittersweetness of youth, and a soaring sense of excitement.
The smiles from center Nanaka Tomita and the others at Cape Ashizuri are truly captivating! The phrase “Natsu ga natsu ga natsu ga kita kara” is incredibly catchy, too.
Released in August 2024 as their ninth single, it was first unveiled as a surprise at the Yokohama Arena tour finale in July of the same year, sending fans into a frenzy.
Ideal for summer drives, lively times with friends, or those sentimental twilight moments, this track sets the perfect mood.
It’s a must-have burst of summer energy that’s sure to lift anyone’s spirits!
Cool songs to listen to in summer: A collection of music to help you cool down (31–40)
fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi
This representative work by DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu overlays the fleeting beauty of summer fireworks with a moment of youth.
DAOKO’s translucent vocals and Yonezu’s rich voice blend exquisitely, delicately expressing the ache of young love and the emotions of parting.
Released in August 2017, it was created as the theme song for the animated film “Fireworks.” It topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and ranked third on the year-end chart, becoming a major hit.
It’s a must-listen for anyone with memories of summer festivals and fireworks displays, or those who want to reminisce about the bittersweet romances of their youth.
Beautiful finsupittsu
Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine, this track is a clear, translucent work themed around an oceanic worldview.
Through the symbolic expression “beautiful fins” depicted by Masamune Kusano’s delicate vocals, a profound world emerges where fragility and hope intersect.
As Spitz’s first tie-in with the Conan series, the song debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and has been beloved by many fans.
It’s recommended for seaside drives in summer or for quiet nights when you want to calm your mind.
cool summerimie
A Japanese-style song by imie that evokes beautiful summer scenery.
Released in August 2020, it later became the title track of the album “Reika.” Hatsune Miku’s clear vocals conjure cool, summery memories.
The gentle melody and intricate arrangement weave a sonic world that feels like a summer evening at dusk.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to savor the bittersweet passing of the seasons or quietly sink into your memories at night.
summer shelterŌgami Mio
A nostalgic rock number that seems to distill the bittersweetness of summer’s end.
Its subtly ephemeral mood is captivating, inviting you to reflect on days gone by.
This track was released in advance from the second album “My Sparkle,” due out in August 2025, and drew attention for its stellar lineup, including Do As Infinity’s Ryo Owatari on guitar.
It sings of life’s journey of repeated partings and reunions, a quiet resolve to set out again after a brief rest.
Mio Ookami’s gentle yet steadfast vocals deepen the world of the song even further.
Give it a listen when you want to step away from the noise and sink into your thoughts.
On the ShoreDef Tech
Released in May 2025 as the lead single from the album “4ELEMENTS,” which commemorates their 20th anniversary.
Its gentle melody blends with a very soft sonic texture to create a soothing atmosphere.
While rooted in Def Tech’s signature Jawaiian Reggae style, it feels more refined than ever.
The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of accepting yourself as you are, are also striking.
It might give you the strength to start moving forward again when you’re worn out from work or relationships.