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!
- [Summer Classics] When it comes to summer, it’s got to be this song! A roundup from timeless staples to the latest hit tracks.
- 1990s J-Pop to listen to in summer: classic and hit summer songs
- [Classics] Timeless Summer Hits Recommended for All Ages [Summer Songs]
- Summer Songs That Hit in the 2000s | A Look Back at Nostalgic Summer Tunes!
- Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new staple tracks that color the hot summer
- BGM for summer drives: A roundup of songs that feel like summer [2026]
- Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
- Get fired up for the hot season! Summer songs recommended for Gen Z
- Youthful songs to listen to in summer. Classic summer hits and recommended popular tracks.
- [Masterpieces to Enjoy During Summer Vacation] A collection of summer songs bursting with summer vibes
- Emotional songs you’ll want to listen to in summer: classic tracks by rock bands and singer-songwriters.
- Songs for summer: Popular Artist Rankings [2026]
- [2026] Get in the Groove Just by Listening! A Collection of Recommended Popular J-POP Songs
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)
Midsummer FruitSazan Ōrusutāzu
This song, which sings of the bittersweet feelings of summer love, captivates with its relaxed acoustic sound.
The lyrics, depicting a beautiful yet fleeting summer romance, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in July 1990, the track was created as the theme song for the film Inamura Jane, directed by Keisuke Kuwata.
It was later featured as an insert song in TV dramas and used in commercials, earning the love of many.
Its lyrics are especially appealing to anyone who has experienced falling in love.
Please savor it alongside your own unforgettable summer memories.
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.
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)
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!
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!
Summer Colorsyuzu
If you want to feel a refreshing summer vibe, Yuzu’s “Natsuiro” is highly recommended! It’s their debut and signature song—one you’re bound to hear at least once every summer—and its sheer freshness makes you feel younger just by listening.
It’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for a season packed with fun events—truly a song born for summer.
Sing it together during outings with friends, or belt it out while riding your bike! However you enjoy it, find your own shade of summer.