Songs to Listen to in Summer: Ranking of Popular Tracks by Japanese Female Artists [2026]

Summer DayMoritaka Chisato29rank/position

Chisato Moritaka 'Summer Days' (PV)

Chisato Moritaka remains forever youthful.

Her song “Natsu no Hi” is a natural, unpretentious track that sings about an ordinary day.

The lyrics are by Chisato Moritaka, the music by Hideo Saito—a golden duo behind many of her consecutive hits.

With lyrics so vivid—“A summer when love ended and I was left alone; the beach, dusk, stars, waves… all I can think of is you”—many listeners likely wondered, “Is this based on Moritaka’s real experience?” It’s a summer song from Moritaka that sets aside the Japanese-style Eurobeat for a gentle, heartfelt delivery.

If you haven’t heard it yet, please do!

cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai30rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo

This song, which likens the flutter and joy of romance to sweet, juicy fruit, is a perfect fit for early summer.

Over the span of two years, a couple quarrels yet cares for each other, coming to cherish the days they spend together—a story brightly portrayed with a lively rhythm and brassy arrangements.

Released in December 2003, the track was included on the album “LOVE PUNCH,” and was also used as the opening theme for TBS’s COUNT DOWN TV and the ending theme for Fuji TV’s Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!.

Brimming with pop energy that captures both a forward-looking spirit and the exhilaration of love, this piece is ideal for a fresh early-summer morning or the time spent waiting to meet someone special.

Fireworks MagicAnsako31rank/position

Asako An – Fireworks Magic [Official Music Video]

Singer Ansako, who’s garnering attention for her cute, translucent voice and overflowing pop sensibility.

The title track of her major debut mini-album, “Hanabi no Mahō” (Fireworks Magic), tightens the chest with its depiction of unrequited love set in summer.

Overall, the key is high, but the vocal range itself isn’t wide, so it should be easier to sing at karaoke if you set a key that suits you.

However, the rhythm of the melody in the A verse is tricky to catch, so try to match it while listening closely to the ensemble.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Last Summer WhisperAnri32rank/position

ANRI Anri Anri “Last Summer Whisper” Music Video 45th Anniversary Version

If you want to savor that indescribable melancholy at summer’s end through music, you can’t skip this classic by Anri.

The mellow, sophisticated sound and her crystal-clear vocals stir up a poignant longing for the summer that’s gone.

This track is included on the city pop masterpiece “Heaven Beach,” released in November 1982, with lyrics and composition by Toshiki Kadomatsu.

Its chic, urban soul vibe is truly exceptional—perfect BGM for a slightly sentimental drive along the coastline at dusk.

My SummerMoritaka Chisato33rank/position

Chisato Moritaka “My Summer” (PV)

It’s a classic where the exhilaration and poignancy of summer intersect.

The heartbroken protagonist’s positive attitude as she tries to enjoy summer vacation with friends is especially memorable.

Released in April 1993 as Chisato Moritaka’s 18th single, it was also used for All Nippon Airways’ Okinawa campaign song.

It peaked at No.

5 on the Oricon chart and ranked 75th on the year-end list.

The track also generated buzz as the lead single from the album “LUCKY 7.” It’s the perfect song for a summer drive or a relaxed day at the beach.

Give it a listen for making memories with friends—or as a spark for a new romance.

You’re my sunshineAmuro Namie34rank/position

Namie Amuro – You’re My Sunshine♡

This work is by Japan’s songstress Namie Amuro.

It’s a track packed with straightforward affection—like telling your special someone under the dazzling sun, “You are my sunshine!” Riding an energetic dance beat, it boldly sings of the thrill and freedom of summer love.

Released in June 1996 as her sixth single, it topped the Oricon Weekly Chart for two consecutive weeks.

It was also featured in Bristol-Myers Squibb’s “SEA BREEZE ’96” commercial.

A different version is included on the album SWEET 19 BLUES.

Swaying feelingsZARD35rank/position

Swaying Feelings – ZARD (Full)

Yureru Omoi is ZARD’s eighth single, released in 1993.

Since it was used in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s sports drink Pocari Sweat commercial, it has a summery image.

It debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart and sold a total of 1.396 million copies, becoming one of their signature songs.

Thanks to Pocari Sweat, it pairs perfectly with sports, so try listening to it while you exercise!

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Hamada Takuya

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