Recommended summer songs for kids: Popular J-POP/Japanese hits [2026]

Let’s dance, Ondo!

Let's dance, Ondo!

This is a participatory Bon Odori song that everyone can enjoy moving their bodies to.

The comical vocals and lively rhythm combine to create an atmosphere that naturally makes you want to dance as you listen.

The choreography that matches the lyrics is easy to follow, making it perfect for getting everyone excited at preschools or local summer festivals.

With moves like fireworks and hand claps, you’ll listen on with anticipation, wondering what comes next.

The instrumental tones are vibrant, and the balance with the vocals is exquisite.

A major appeal is that children can shout along, move their bodies, and have fun together.

Whether dancing in yukata or hero costumes, this song lets you fully feel the bustle of summer.

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mutō

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Trace that dreamYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Tracing That Dream” Official Music Video

Thanks to the massive hit of “Yoru ni Kakeru,” YOASOBI has become popular not only among adults but also children.

Their 2020 release “Tracing That Dream” (“Ano Yume o Nazotte”) sings of a dramatic summer romance over a driving, exhilarating melody.

Its source material is Sota Ishiki’s novel “Yume no Shizuku to Hoshi no Hana.” In 2021, a ballad version drew attention when it was featured in a Calorie Mate commercial.

It’s heart-fluttering to see the straightforward way the narrator conveys their feelings, trying to make the dream of staying together with the one they love come true under a night sky lit by fireworks!

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SAKI

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summer squallarashi

summer squall

Arashi, who are hugely successful both as a group and individually, are wildly popular with kids too! Their 2018 release “Natsu Hayate” was chosen as the support song for the summer high school baseball tournament held that year, as well as the theme song for the related program “Netto Koshien.” Written and composed by Yuzu’s Yujin Kitagawa, the song became an anthem for high school baseball players across Japan, including those competing at Koshien.

It depicts the burning fighting spirit within, the cheers from those around you, and the moment you start running toward your dreams powered by that support.

Why not make this song your own fight song and give your all to club activities or studying this summer?

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SAKI

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lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

This track captivates with its refreshing guitar sound and exhilarating sense of speed.

Crafted by the popular band Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, you might also recognize it as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery.” Released in April 2024, it went on to win the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards the same year.

The lyrics, which depict the brilliance and inner conflicts of youth, amplify the excitement of summer vacation.

Be sure to give it a listen as the perfect BGM for making memories with friends!

StarmineDa-iCE

Starmine

The Da-iCE song that’s been gaining popularity on TikTok and YouTube really stands out with its festival-like chants and an up-tempo melody that feels like fireworks launching one after another.

The track conveys a positive message about not getting discouraged by a single failure and trying again and again, and just listening to it gives you energy.

Released in August 2022, it’s also included on the album “SCENE.” It’s a classic that won the Excellence Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards that year.

It’s perfect for lifting your mood at summer vacation events or when you’re hanging out with friends, so be sure to give it a listen!

Hi-FiveME:I

ME:I (Mei) ⊹ “Hi-Five” Official MV

This song is the perfect way to amp up summer vacation with friends.

It’s the title track of ME:I’s single “Hi-Five,” released in August 2024, and its theme is the sparkle and exhilaration of spending summer with your crew.

Packed with the refreshing vibe of lemonade sipped under the sun and the joy that makes every day shine just by being together, it’s a track full of feel-good energy.

The song has gained popularity for its upbeat sound, debuting at No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Put it on as your summer vacation BGM, and it’s sure to elevate the fun.

Samama Festival!Mrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Samama Festival!

It’s an energetic track that feels like a summer festival turned into music.

Released in June 2016, it was also used as the theme song for a Nihon Kogakuin College commercial.

The lyrics capture the excitement of summer vacation, inspiring you to break free from boring routines and have as much fun as you can.

Its bursting melodies and rhythms are perfect as background music for hanging out with friends or going on family outings.

It’s sure to color your best summer memories—so give it a listen.