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

Dokimeki Diaryasmi feat. Chinozo

[Official] Pokémon anime opening theme “Dokimeki Diary”

This song is the one that makes your heart race at the start of a new adventure.

It’s a track created by the singer-songwriter asmi and the Vocaloid producer Chinozo working together, and just listening to it might fill you with energy.

It portrays the excitement and anxiety of stepping into the unknown, and the resolve to set out on a journey to find yourself.

Released in April 2023, it’s also popular as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon.

It’s perfect for elementary schoolers—ideal for when you want to take on a new challenge during summer vacation or blow away your worries.

asmi’s clear, translucent voice sets the stage for the best summer.

Nagisaimase

【imase】Nagisa（MV）

It’s a fresh, danceable track reminiscent of ’80s city pop.

Released in May 2023 and sung by imase, many of you may have heard it as the theme song for the news program ABEMA Prime.

Told from the perspective of a confident woman, the song portrays a romantic storyline, with imase’s switch between chest voice and falsetto expressing the protagonist’s emotional shifts.

Also included on the album Bonsai, it’s perfect for summer outings—be sure to add it to your driving playlist.

Marigoldaimyon

Marigold

This song captivates with a refreshing yet wistful feel that pairs perfectly with summer memories.

Released by Aimyon in August 2018, it became the first track by a Japanese artist to surpass 100 million streams the following year, making it a favorite across generations.

Its melody, which conjures vivid summer scenes, may stir a gentle sense of nostalgia.

Depicting summertime moments spent with someone special, it’s the kind of music that even elementary school children can enjoy and feel at ease with.

It’s perfect for summer outings or dusk—be sure to give it a listen!

I am the strongest.Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED

[Ado] I’m the Strongest (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)

This song, a featured track from the blockbuster animated film ONE PIECE FILM RED, is very popular even among elementary school students.

Its powerful message—believing that you are the strongest—will surely stir your heart.

The exhilarating, powerful sound that blows away anxiety is incredibly appealing.

Released in June 2022 provided by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, it was included in the album “Uta’s Songs ONE PIECE FILM RED” as one of Uta’s signature tracks sung by Ado.

It’s perfect for trying something new during summer vacation or when you want to give it your all, making it a highly recommended song for anyone looking to boost their summer vibes to the max.

Soda Pop Lovenaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – Soda Pop Love (Naniwa Danshi First Arena Tour 2021 #OnlyNaniwaDanshiWin)

Naniwa Danshi’s “Soda Pop Love” is a song that portrays a love that bubbles up like soda.

Along with a refreshing sound that evokes the exhilaration of summer, their vocals convey how wholeheartedly they’re enjoying the season.

The clapping incorporated near the end is another highlight, underscoring the song’s poppy vibe and its appeal across generations.

Their charming vocals amplify the anticipation for summer, so why not give it a listen to kick off the season?

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kappamaki

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Smile Ondoyuzu

Smile Ondo

Just hearing the intro, buzzing like a festive hayashi, instantly transports you to the lively bustle of a summer festival—Yuzu has crafted just such a song.

Included on the mini-album “Yuzu Smile,” released in July 2003, it overflows with a charm that puts a smile on everyone’s face.

The sound of Japanese taiko drums and spirited calls ring out, conjuring scenes of people of all ages forming a circle and dancing.

In the lyrics, bonds that span generations, gratitude for everyday life, and a warm wish for a peaceful world are sung alongside the joyful atmosphere of a festival.

This mini-album reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It also includes “Mata Aeru Hi Made,” the ending theme for the anime Doraemon, making it a work the whole family can enjoy.

Perfect for summer events—and for those times you need a boost—listening to it will naturally bring a smile to your face.

The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster 'The World Is Smiling at You' Short Ver.

As a gift from parent to child, this is a song I’d love for you to give.

It’s a track by the girl vocal group Little Glee Monster, released in 2018 as their 12th single.

Many of you may know it, as it was used as a Coca-Cola image song.

It’s a very uplifting pop tune, captivating with the group’s signature beautiful choral work.

The lyrics, which gently seem to say “It’s going to be okay,” are another part of its charm.

Try listening to it on a sunny summer day while taking in the scenery.

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Araki Jakkan

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