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' perfect for listening in the summer. Timeless J-POP summer anthems best suited for summer guys and summer girls (181–190)
Transparent, Far Too Transparent feat. Shoka MizutoNatsunose
Composer Natsunose, known for their wistful, nostalgic soundscapes, released “Transparent, All Too Transparent” in May 2023.
The vocals are by Shoka Mito.
It’s a summer song that beautifully blends freshness and longing, and the lyrics—singing about “you, a presence that gradually invades the protagonist’s world”—leave a strong impression.
The sound carries a hint of summer’s end that really resonates, making this a highly recommended track from Natsunose.
Be sure to give it a listen!
Heat haze of Augustmakaroni enpitsu
This is a song by the rock band Macaroni Enpitsu, formed at Senzoku Gakuen College of Music in Kanagawa Prefecture.
It begins with a cool, understated vibe that feels like a summer breeze, then builds powerfully toward the chorus as if pouring out emotion—an impressive sonic development.
As suggested by the title, the song evokes a desperate figure chasing something intangible and the emptiness that accompanies it.
It can also be heard as expressing the loneliness felt when the summer heat has passed.
Unchanging ThingsOku Hanako
If you’re an anime fan, you might already know it.
It’s a ballad featured as an insert song in director Mamoru Hosoda’s smash-hit film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.
The track is by Chiba-born singer-songwriter Hanako Oku and was included as the B-side on her single Garnet.
The lyrics, which pour out feelings for someone you love, are heart-wrenching.
It’s perfect for sinking into a nostalgic summer mood.
And if you’re in love right now, it will make you think, “Let’s have a romance without regrets.”
Goodbye, Summer DaysYamashita Tatsuro
One of Tatsuro Yamashita’s classic songs, “Goodbye Summer Days,” was released in 1991.
The song was created based on Yamashita’s own memories from his high school days, and it’s also famous for featuring him performing all the instruments himself.
In 2021, an animated music video directed by INE INE (Ai Nina) was released and became a hot topic.
Although it’s a song that has been out for some time, its bittersweet feelings—of summer ending and the transition from childhood to adulthood—are emotions that people can relate to in any era.
Summer Splash!arashi
The nationally beloved idol group Arashi.
Although they went on hiatus in 2020, their songs are still loved by many people today.
Among their summer-themed works, perhaps the most popular is “Summer Splash!” It’s basically a refreshing track that falls under J-pop, but true to Arashi’s style, it also features a rap part.
It’s a great recommendation as driving music when heading out to leisure spots like the beach or the pool!
Summertime CinderellaRyokushokushakai
Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a four-member co-ed rock band that’s expanding its fanbase with powerful high-tone vocals and songs brimming with fresh pop sensibility.
Their 7th single, “Summertime Cinderella,” was written as the theme song for the TV drama “Midsummer Cinderella.” The arrangement moves from a sentimental intro featuring piano and strings into a light, breezy A-melody, making you feel refreshed just by listening.
True to its title, the summer-evoking lyrics convey the arrival of the hot season, delivering a refreshing, upbeat tune.
WarpB’z
When it comes to B’z, the impression of “ultra soul” is very strong, but are you familiar with the hidden gem called “Wrap”? There are other intense songs too, but the expression on their faces when they perform this one is incredibly fiery and passionate.
It’s a song I’d love for you to listen to in the summer.