Recommended summer songs for kids: Popular J-POP/Japanese hits [2026]
Every summer brings a relentless heat wave, but for kids, summer isn’t just hot—it’s a season full of fun with pools, the beach, summer vacation, fireworks, and more.
In this article, we’ve gathered a collection of summer songs perfect for children.
Focusing on artists popular with kids, we’ll introduce both ballads and up-tempo tracks, from timeless classics to the latest hits.
If you’re looking for summer songs to play for children, be sure to check this out.
You’re sure to find the perfect track for summer drives or as BGM for camping!
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Recommended summer songs for kids: Popular J-POP/Japanese songs [2026] (21–30)
SurgesOrangestar (feat. Natsuse & Ruwan)
Vocaloid is popular not only among adults but also among children.
A recommended summer song by Orangestar, a prolific Vocaloid producer, is “Surges.” It features fellow Vocaloid producer Ruan and creator Natsuse as vocalists.
The song was used in CalorieMate’s 2021 web video “Summer Begins.” The lyrics depict the frustration and pain of being unable to do things due to unavoidable constraints, yet finding hope in the heat that wells up inside.
Be sure to watch it together with the dynamic visuals!
Voice of the Seaurashima tarō (kiritani kenta)
The straightforward, nursery-rhyme-like melody line might really appeal to kids.
It’s sung by actor Kenta Kiritani under the name Urashima Taro.
Chosen as a song for an au commercial, it created a buzz and was released as a digital single in 2015.
The lyrics, which convey a single-hearted devotion—“I’m always thinking of you”—are wonderful.
They make me think, I want to care about someone this much, and be cared for like that too.
Of course, listening to it by the seaside in summer is my top recommendation!
Ephemeral Fireworkssupercell
supercell is a group centered around the composer ryo, where various creators such as illustrators and designers come together to produce music.
There is no dedicated vocalist among the members; for this track, Utakata Hanabi, the vocals are performed by the female singer-songwriter nagi.
The song, themed around fireworks, is also recommended for children.
It has a gentle, relaxed tempo, and nagi’s soft voice makes it very easy to listen to.
It’s also an ending theme for the anime NARUTO: Shippuden, so it’s a song widely recognized by children.
Barefoot CeccoliORANGE RANGE
A full-throttle summer tune from ORANGE RANGE, released in July 2025, showcasing their signature style.
Even in their 24th year, this work brims with the same playful spirit as ever.
The sprightly guitar and uplifting rhythm leave a strong impression.
The lyrics convey the protagonist’s fluttering excitement as he falls in love at first sight with a captivating woman and chases after her.
The music video, featuring the members performing unique dances, is a must-see.
Perfect for summer drives or time with friends—it’s guaranteed to boost your mood!
Run Through the MemoriesMy Hair is Bad
This song is filled with summer memories and hope for the future.
My Hair is Bad’s powerful melodies and uplifting lyrics really resonate.
Written as the theme song for the film “Crayon Shin-chan: Our Dinosaur Diary,” it was released in June 2024 and is also included on the album “ghosts.” Looking back on fun memories while giving you the courage to take a new step forward, this track is perfect for kids kicking off their summer vacation.
Why not listen to it with friends and make some wonderful memories?
Until It Reaches YouLittle Glee Monster
This is a song I’d recommend for kids who love baseball.
It was used as the ending theme for the anime MIX, which is about high school baseball.
The track is by the girls’ vocal group Little Glee Monster, known for hits like “Houkago High Five,” and it was released in 2019 as their 14th single.
Its gentle mid-tempo feel and vocals are soothing.
It’s the perfect number to listen to on a summer evening while gazing up at an orange-tinted sky.
Because I’ve always loved you.neguse.
Created as a cheer song for high school baseball, Neguse.’s track captures the youthful energy that won’t be beaten by the summer heat.
Expressing the passion and effort of players aiming for Koshien through rap and chorus, the piece is infused with the belief that “you can keep going because you love it,” giving listeners a push forward.
Released digitally on June 7, 2024, it was also chosen as the theme song for Nettō Koshien.
Since it’s set to play during summer Koshien broadcasts, you’ll likely hear it often on TV.
It’s a perfect pick for anyone striving to get through the hot summer or working hard toward their dreams.