Classic “summer songs” you’ll want to listen to in summer. Timeless J-pop summertime anthems perfect for summer guys and summer girls.
What kind of songs do you feel like listening to in the summer? I bet many of you want to turn up the energy with upbeat, summery tracks that get you hyped.
On the other hand, it’s also nice to enjoy songs with a calmer, chill vibe and immerse yourself in the world of the lyrics.
In this article, we’ve gathered a wide range of songs with different moods that are perfect for summer.
You’re sure to find something you want to listen to.
These are summer tunes we can recommend for any situation—beach trips, drives, barbecues, and more—so be sure to check them out to the end!
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Classic “summer songs” you’ll want to listen to in summer. Essential J‑POP standard summer tunes perfect for summer guys and summer girls (111–120)
When the Sunflowers Bloomyuzu
Starting from street performances and now a household-name act, the folk duo Yuzu.
“When Sunflowers Bloom,” included on their third mini-album themed around summer, Yuzuman no Natsu, stands out for its somewhat nostalgic ensemble with hints of classic kayōkyoku.
Its bittersweet memories of love set against quintessential summer scenery are easy for many listeners to relate to and overlay with their own experiences.
With its refreshing melody, this cool, invigorating pop tune livens up summer—perfect both as background music and as a karaoke pick.
Classic “summer songs” you’ll want to listen to in summer. The best staple J-pop summer tracks for summer guys and summer girls (121–130)
green plumkuriipuhaipe
CreepHyp is known for their striking, hard-hitting lyrics and the highly popular high-tone vocals of Seikaikan Ozaki.
Their song “Aoume” was released in May 2023 and was written specifically for a commercial for the dating and marriage-matching app Pairs.
It’s a summer romance number, and while the title “Aoume” (literally “green/unripe plum”) piques curiosity, listening while reading the lyrics makes you go “I see”—the changing stages of a plum fruit are used as a metaphor for the stages of love.
It’s a summer tune that lingers in the ear, featuring wordplay-laced lyrics that are quintessentially Ozaki.
I can see you againKetsumeishi
Ketsumeishi is a four-member hip-hop group that made their major debut in 2001 with Familia.
Their 2007 release, Mata Kimi ni Aeru, is a bright track where an upbeat, summery sound pairs perfectly with emotional rapping.
The song was also used in a commercial for Shiseido’s ANESSA, featuring the hugely popular model Yuri Ebihara, known by her nickname “Ebi-chan.” She appears in the music video as well, and the makeup and fashion capture a nostalgic 2000s vibe—so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out.
Summer BreezeGosuperāzu
This song, powerfully sung by The Gospellers, evokes the clear summer scenery and refreshing air.
It’s included on the EP “HERE & NOW,” which is composed of songs provided by artists connected to The Gospellers.
Written by Shintaro Namioka and Maho Oshima of Penthouse, it features a calm rhythm that resonates to your core and a bright melodic line that leaves a strong impression.
Precisely because of its gentle sound, the vocals are brought to the fore, conveying the freshness of summer through beautiful harmonies.
Bon-giri Love SongSazan Ōrusutāzu
Southern All Stars have released countless classic summer songs over the years.
In 2023, they unveiled a track with a completely different vibe from their previous work: “Bongiri Koi-uta.” It features a sound infused with elements of traditional folk music, letting you fully feel the atmosphere of a Japanese summer.
Another highlight is the array of creative touches woven throughout the song.
I hope you’ll listen closely and savor both its bittersweetness and its playful charm.
By the way, in the music video the members perform on a bon-odori festival tower, which adds a wonderfully summery touch.
summer stormJenīhai
Jenny High is a five-member band formed around Enon Kawatani of Gesu no Kiwami Otome.
Their song “Natsuarashi” features a refreshing female vocal that makes it perfect for karaoke.
It’s a breezy pop tune that fits all kinds of situations—another big selling point.
The piano phrases are super stylish too, so singing this track might make people think you have great taste in song selection! The music video also matches the vibe of the song, so playing it while you sing could make things even more exciting.
To Your Townyangusukinii
This is a song by Young Skinny that portrays a bittersweet youth longing to get closer to a loved one.
It was written as the opening theme for ABEMA’s dating show “Koisuru ♥ Shuumatsu Homestay 2023 Natsu” (Falling in Love: Weekend Homestay 2023 Summer).
The light sounds and vocals layered over a bouncing rhythm convey a fresh, exhilarating feeling of facing summer head-on.
Because it depicts everyday moments with a loved one through a voice that carries a smile, the song vividly evokes rising emotions and a positive sense of romance.