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

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.

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!

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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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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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.

Beautiful finsupittsu

Spitz / Beautiful Fin

This is a song by Spitz that drew major attention as the theme for the film Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine.

Released in April 2023 as their 46th single, it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Single Rankings.

It’s easy to believe the story that Masamune Kusano delved deeply into the film’s script to write the song—the result resonates profoundly with the narrative.

The poetic worldview, evoking an image of someone swimming powerfully forward while carrying their wounds—wounds that become part of their individuality—feels quintessentially Spitz.

Its popularity is also growing as a staple summer song of the Reiwa era.

With its crystal-clear sound and an uplifting chorus, it’s perfect for summer drives.

Brimming with kindness that seems to nudge children forward as they step into the future on their own, it’s a true gem of a song.

Summertime CinderellaRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Summer Time Cinderella' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Summer Time Cinderella

When it comes to capturing the sparkle and bittersweetness of summer, no one outshines Ryokuoushoku Shakai.

Their ultimate love song of the summer of 2023 is this very track.

Written as the theme for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Midsummer Cinderella,” it channels the exhilaration of a budding romance and the fleeting, magical passage of time by likening it to “Cinderella.” Haruko Nagaya’s expansive, clear vocals and the breezy sound come together to create an undeniably perfect pop song.

It’s no surprise it won the Excellence Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards.

Put it on as the soundtrack for a drive while making summer memories with your kids, and it will set the stage for a truly wonderful moment.