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

Sea of Memoriesyozuka*50rank/position

School Days - Sea of Memories (original Japanese lyrics, Chinese adaptation)

This is the song used as the ending theme for the anime “School Days.” It has a mature vibe that evokes a midsummer evening by the sea.

The way the tone of the song shifts dramatically in the chorus is really cool.

I’ll be thereKōda Kumi51rank/position

Kumi Koda / I’ll be there (from the album “SUMMER of LOVE”)

Known by her nickname Kuu-chan, singer Kumi Koda has established a unique style often described as “sexy-cool.” “I’ll be there,” included on her 32nd single “4 hot wave,” makes a lasting impression with its opening chorus set over delicate acoustic guitar strokes.

The lyrics evoke images of the summer seaside and seem perfect for coloring those passionate days spent with a lover.

It’s a refreshing yet passionate pop tune, with her soulful vocals lifting your spirits.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Equator Girl: Dokki!Yamashita Kumiko52rank/position

Equator Girl Doki!/Kumiko Yamashita

The up-tempo sound and catchy phrases of “EQUATOR KOMACHI DOKI” will stick in your head—another must-listen.

This track was specially written by singer-songwriter Kumiko Yamashita as a tie-in song for Kanebo Cosmetics.

Its lyrics liken the heat of summer—and the excitement of a summer romance—to the equator.

Highlights include a chorus that conveys a racing heartbeat through repeated onomatopoeia and a passionate vocal performance that makes full use of her husky voice.

Incidentally, “Equator Komachi” is a coined term in this song, thought to represent a beautiful woman in summer.

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yamamoto

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I love it!Hirosue Ryōko53rank/position

[Official] Ryoko Hirosue 'Daisuki!' (MV) RYOKO HIROSUE / Daisuki! [2nd Single] <Oricon No. 1!>

Singer Ryoko Hirosue, who enjoyed enormous popularity in the late 1990s—enough to spark the “Hirosue boom”—and continues to thrive as an actor today.

Her second single, “Daisuki!” provided by singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto, was used as the theme song for Asahi Soft Drinks’ Mitsuya Cider commercial.

With lyrics themed around driving, it makes a perfect summer soundtrack for fun outings.

It’s a refreshing pop tune whose cute vocals and catchy melody will stick in your head.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Yeah! Super Holiday!Matsuura Aya54rank/position

Aya Matsuura “Yeah! Meccha Holiday” Music Video

One of Aya Matsuura’s signature songs, known for her trademark sun-bright smile.

Just hearing the intro may give some listeners the feeling that their hearts are starting to dance.

Its brilliantly radiant melody that shoots straight through, combined with an irresistibly upbeat rhythm that gets your body moving, vividly paints sparkling scenes of summer.

Released as a single in May 2002, the track was later included on the album “Aya Matsuura Best 1.” Perfect for summer outings, it’s also a song brimming with charm that can instantly give you a boost on days when you’re feeling a bit low.

love the islandSuzuki Ami55rank/position

Ami Suzuki – Love the Island

Ami Suzuki is a singer counted among the artists who defined the J-pop scene of the 1990s.

Her debut single, “love the island,” produced by Tetsuya Komuro, was featured as the commercial song for the Guam Visitors Bureau’s “Guam Great Summer Festival ’98” campaign.

Its tropical-flavored ensemble and crystalline sound perfectly match a sun-and-sea summer landscape.

It’s a refreshing number whose cute vocals add color to the hot season.

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Hoshino Takashi

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To the Lightmiwa56rank/position

miwa 'To the Light' Music Video

Singer-songwriter miwa made her major debut in 2010 with her first single, “don’t cry anymore.” Her song “Hikari e” is a catchy pop tune with a memorable melody and is great for karaoke because it’s easy to sing.

However, there’s a section in the chorus with a high note; if that part is difficult, it might be better to lower the key overall.

Singing that high note in falsetto is also recommended.

It’s a danceable pop track, making it a perfect choice when you want to liven up the atmosphere.

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Yuuki

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