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 song” hits you’ll want to listen to in summer. The best staple J‑POP summer tracks for summer guys and summer girls (1–10)
Et cetera related to the seashorePUFFY
Released in 1997, this PUFFY track is one of the quintessential summer songs of the ’90s.
With distinctive lyrics by Yosui Inoue and catchy composition by Tamio Okuda, it evokes a bright, beachy vibe and a sense of escape from the everyday.
It was also featured in a commercial for Kirin Beverage’s “Tennen Sodachi.” It’s perfect not only as BGM for summer drives, but also for having a blast with friends at karaoke.
SUMMER SONGYUI
YUI’s song, which vividly captures the freshness of summer youth, expresses a passionate season for young people through seaside encounters and the subtle push-and-pull beneath the fireworks.
Released in July 2008, it debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon charts and was certified Gold.
It’s recommended for those who want to look back on summer memories or feel the sweetness and poignancy of youth.
Perfect as background music for the beach or a drive, it’s sure to become a track that colors your summer!
Surfing JohnnyKuwata Keisuke
When it comes to summer songs, you just can’t leave this artist out.
Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars and his solo track “Naminori Johnny.” Its poppy, breezy melody really lets you soak up the summer vibe.
The music video shows Kuwata surfing, but apparently it’s not actually him—the upper body is Kuwata, while the lower body is someone else.
The slightly sexy lyrics, so characteristic of Kuwata and themed around summer love, are also captivating.
A fleeting summer romance that blooms and fades by the sea—an essential part of a hot summer.
Please enjoy it as the perfect BGM for your own summer love!
Classic “summer songs” you’ll want to listen to in summer: the best staple J-pop summer tunes for summer guys and summer girls (11–20)
summer festivalWhiteberry
A cover of JITTERIN’JINN’s song, this number catapulted Whiteberry to fame.
As the title “Natsu Matsuri” (Summer Festival) suggests, it’s unmistakably perfect for summer.
The uniquely arranged way of wearing a yukata—something no one had done before—also drew attention! The lyrics depict the bittersweet scenes of a summer festival with someone you like, and the slightly sad mood of a love that, in the end, vanished in an instant like fireworks.
The way the melody swells conveys the feeling of a summer romance that’s both sweet and fiery.
water lily blossomShonan no Kaze
Listen to this and you’ll feel summer with your whole body—no question about it! Don’t be fooled by the relaxed vibe at the start.
The excitement quickly surges and hits its peak before you know it.
And when that peak arrives, you know what to do, right? Swing those towels like crazy! That’s the signature move for this Shonan no Kaze track.
Whether you know it or not, you’ll find yourself spinning a towel without even thinking.
Highly recommended if you want to feel the heat of summer blazing through your body and soul!
Glaring Summernaniwa danshi
A dazzling, sun-bright summer anthem has arrived! This track was pre-released as a digital single in June 2025.
Its choreography, which blends summery vibes with disco, is a major highlight, showcasing high-energy dance perfectly suited for midsummer in both the intro and the chorus.
The song has also been featured in a ROUND1 commercial and is slated to be included on the album “BON BON VOYAGE,” set for release in July.
It’s perfect for hyping things up at the beach with friends or as the soundtrack to your summer memories!
Music HourPorunogurafiti
Pornograffitti’s “Music Hour” is the song that makes you want to fall in love in the hot summer! Released in 2000, it was also used that year in a commercial for Pocari Sweat.
The comedic lyrics, depicting an exchange between a listener seeking love advice on a radio show and the DJ, really stand out.
In the chorus there’s a mysterious bit of choreography known as the “weird dance,” which gets crowds going at live shows! With its driving feel, it’s perfect for summer road trips and leisure.
Let this song’s power give a boost to your own summer romance!