Speaking of summer, it’s the season when everyone feels more carefree, regardless of age or gender.
You might go out with family or friends, and if you’re a student, you may have summer vacation—truly a season full of events.
On the other hand, in recent years, the extreme heat may make some people prefer to stay indoors.
So this time, we’ve put together a list of summer songs recommended for the yutori generation.
They’re great as background music when you’re out and about, or for enjoying the summer vibe indoors with just the music.
We hope you’ll use them in whatever way suits you best.
- Full summer vibes! Johnny's popular summer songs
- Relive those feelings from back in the day! Youth anthems recommended for the Yutori generation
- [Masterpieces to Enjoy During Summer Vacation] A collection of summer songs bursting with summer vibes
- [Summer Songs Recommended for Your 30s] A Selection of Nostalgic Hit Tunes!
- Spring songs to color the season of meetings and partings—recommended for the Yutori generation
- Recommended Summer Songs for People in Their 60s: Classic and Popular J-Pop Hits [2026]
- Get fired up for the hot season! Summer songs recommended for Gen Z
- Packed with masterpieces! Karaoke songs recommended for women of the Yutori generation
- [Summer Classics] When it comes to summer, it’s got to be this song! A roundup from timeless staples to the latest hit tracks.
- Songs to brighten up your car interior! Recommended driving tracks for the Yutori generation
- [2026] A summer song that tightens your chest with bittersweet feelings. A classic summer tune that touches the heart.
- [Oldies] Summer Songs Recommended for People in Their 50s [2026]
- Youthful songs to listen to in summer. Classic summer hits and recommended popular tracks.
Timeless hits for the hot season! Summer songs (1–10) recommended for the Yutori generation
Greatful daysHamasaki Ayumi
From an intro with depth and translucence to a chorus that feels as if the view before you suddenly opens up, this song features superb arrangements that evoke summer skies and the sea.
Its catchy melody, tinged with a hint of melancholy, lets you feel both the freshness and the wistfulness of summer at once.
It’s included on Ayumi Hamasaki’s 29th single, “&,” released in July 2003.
The track was also used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s music variety show “ayu ready?”.
It’s a refreshing pop tune that’s perfect as BGM for a drive.
Everyday, KachushaAKB48
This is the 21st major single by AKB48, known as an “idol group you can go meet.” Released in May 2011, it was featured in Asahi Soft Drinks’ WONDA commercial.
Set to a bright, lighthearted melody, the lyrics vividly celebrate the purity of love and youth.
The catchy chorus leaves a lasting impression, and the headband-themed lyrics evoke memories of summer romance.
It’s a perfect summer song for background music on a trip to the beach with friends and for creating unforgettable summer memories.
fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi
A collaboration song by female singer DAOKO and singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu.
Released in August 2017 as the theme song for the animated film “Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?”, it created a huge buzz.
Blending piano, strings, and electronica with DAOKO’s clear, translucent vocals, it paints a fragile and beautiful world like fireworks coloring the summer night sky.
The lyrics, which capture a fleeting moment of youth, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a masterpiece that gently embraces a bittersweet feeling—perfect for listening to at the end of summer.
Shanghai HoneyORANGE RANG
A signature song by ORANGE RANGE packed with summery cheer and youthful energy.
Riding on a light, upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, the lyrics vividly depict a beachside romance.
Released in July 2003, the track reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became a major hit, selling over 200,000 copies.
It’s a quintessential ORANGE RANGE tune, perfect for capturing a carefree mood during summer drives or seaside BBQs.
Paradise BabyRIP SLYME
A summer classic distinguished by its Latin-flavored arrangement and catchy melody.
Released in June 2002, this track has long been cherished as one of RIP SLYME’s signature works.
Its acoustic sound layered over a sprightly beat evokes a breezy summer vibe.
Paired with lyrics that land impeccable rhymes, it fully captures the liberating feel of the season.
An emotional summer tune that’s also perfect as driving BGM.
cotton candyback number
A masterpiece that skillfully portrays the sweet yet heartrending feelings of unrequited love—the inner turmoil felt amid the lively atmosphere of a summer festival and the emotions that still can’t be spoken.
It’s acclaimed as a work that evokes back number’s nostalgic vibe.
Released in July 2012, it caught the ears of many viewers when it was used as the opening theme for TBS’s “COUNT DOWN TV.” Recommended for those who want to feel the bittersweetness of a summer romance or reminisce about their youth.
Coco☆NatsuMomoiro Kurōbā Zetto
It’s a song that captures summer scenes and fun, sprinkled throughout with humorous expressions.
The lyrics are unique and playful, packed with wordplay that keeps listeners entertained.
With its up-tempo, bright sound, it’s a pop number that amplifies the open, carefree vibe of summer.
A staple at live shows, it’s hugely popular for its choreography and call-and-response that let the members and audience enjoy it together.
It’s the perfect track for a summer drive or as seaside background music.