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

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

It’s an exhilarating song that conjures up an image of blue skies spreading overhead.

It’s a track by Official HIGE DANDism, the pop-rock band behind numerous hits like “Pretender,” released in 2019 as their third single.

The majestic band sound pairs perfectly with Satoshi Fujihara’s soaring vocals, and it’s truly stirring.

It fills you with the strength to face tomorrow.

The lyrics’ powerful message—Let’s keep moving toward our goals!—is perfect for boosting a child’s motivation.

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Glaring Summernaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – Gira Gira Summer [Official Music Video]

A summery tune with popping beats and the members’ energetic vocals that’ll make your body start dancing before you know it! In this track, Naniwa Danshi play the role of the charismatic “Glittering Gira-Gira-sama” who spices up summer, filling the song with a fun that makes you forget the dull routine of everyday life.

It was also featured in a ROUND1 commercial and included on their fourth album, “BON BON VOYAGE,” released in July 2025.

The sound fuses disco and pop, and the lyrics paint a world where you can practically see the members letting loose and dancing—another big draw.

With this as your BGM, your summer drives and camping trips are sure to become unforgettable memories!

Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Spirits of the Sea

“Spirits of the Sea” was released by Kenshi Yonezu in 2019 and created as the theme song for the animated feature Children of the Sea.

The lyrics use words rich with nuance, expressing both beauty and poignancy.

Its gently flowing tempo feels like swimming in the ocean and pairs perfectly with Yonezu’s clear voice.

It’s a great recommendation for children who love the sea.

The music video, featuring many fish and whales, is also thrilling and visually captivating, making it a work you can enjoy both through the song and the imagery.

sunflowerAdo

[Ado] Sunflower

This is a track by Ado that drew major attention as the theme song for the TBS drama “18/40: Dreams and Love If We’re Together.” Released in July 2023 and included on the album “Zanmu,” the song combines a refreshing quality that suits the summer blue sky with a powerful energy that stirs listeners’ hearts.

The lyrics carefully portray the protagonist’s inner conflict: wanting to stay straight and true like someone they admire, yet finding themselves growing timid.

Ado’s expressively rich vocals lend convincing weight to the positive message of taking a step toward the light—something that will surely resonate with children as well.

Ultramarine FlightDISH//

DISH// – Ultramarine Flight [Official Video]

A dance-rock tune with an exhilarating melody that feels like you’re soaring through an endless blue sky.

Performed by DISH//, which includes members active as actors, this piece boldly sings of a glittering instant of summer and hope for the future—youth itself.

The lyrical world crafted by vocalist Takumi Kitamura seems likely to spark the spirit of adventure sleeping in children’s hearts.

It’s the title track of the EP “Gunjou Hikou,” set for release in March 2025, and it was premiered during their arena tour from late 2024, captivating fans.

Roll down the windows and play it on a summer drive, and you’re sure to make unforgettable memories.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Promise of a Sunflower (Short Ver.)

This summer song is hugely popular with children because it was chosen as the theme song for the movie “STAND BY ME Doraemon.” It’s a work by singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata, released in 2014 as his 17th single.

It’s a moving ballad whose every word seeps into your heart.

The lyrics, which overflow with the desire to always stay by your side, are so touching they can make you cry just by reading them.

Be sure to spend this summer with this song.

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The Slope in AugustFischer’s

[MV] Slope in August / Fischer's

This is a superb track that turns that sparkling rush—like sprinting up a hill with your friends on a summer morning—into sound.

The lyrics beautifully capture the pure excitement of childhood, thrilled for the adventure that’s about to begin, alongside a faint, sudden nostalgia, and they grip the listener’s heart without letting go.

Released in August 2018, the song was included the following year on the album “New Challengers.” It’s also a treat that you can sing it on JOYSOUND with the official video.

There’s a playful anecdote, very much in their style, about how the title was decided through interactions with viewers.

Put it on during a summer drive or camping trip, and it will color your best memories in vivid hues.