RAG MusicSummer-Songs
Lovely summer song

Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new staple tracks that color the hot summer

Looking back at the history of J-POP, countless summer songs have been released over the years.

I’m sure that when you hear “summer songs,” several tracks come to mind for you as well.

Of course, even in the Reiwa era, as summer approaches, many seasonally themed songs continue to be released.

In this article, we’ll showcase a selection of summer songs born in the Reiwa era that are sure to become the new standards going forward! From hype tracks to mellow tunes, there’s a wide variety—so take your time and listen to each one carefully.

Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new standard tracks that color the hot summer (81–90)

Magic hourRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Magic Hour' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Magic Hour
Magic hourRyokushokushakai

This song, which was also selected as an insert track for the drama “Midsummer Cinderella,” is a summer love song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai that overlays fireworks with the feeling of being in love.

It has an atmosphere that evokes the bittersweetness of summer’s end, doesn’t it? In the lyrics, they write with straightforward sincerity: “I’ll accept you in any form, like the water’s surface reflecting fireworks.” There are many other evocative expressions that intertwine love and fireworks, so please take your time listening while reading the lyrics.

Let’s Go to the Sea (feat. PES)Lisa Halim

This surf music features a groovy, Latin-tinged rhythm that resonates comfortably alongside the sound of the waves.

Lisa Halim’s husky yet gentle vocals blend seamlessly with PES’s cool rap (formerly of RIP SLYME), vividly expressing a longing for the sea and memories of summer.

Produced by DJ HASEBE, the track was released as a digital-only single in October 2020 and drew attention after being picked up by major Spotify playlists.

It’s the perfect song for a seaside drive or reminiscing about summer.

Trace that dreamYOASOBI

A heartwarming love song filled with summer memories.

This track from YOASOBI gently illuminates the lovers’ feelings like fireworks sparkling in the summer night sky.

Carried by a refreshing melody woven by piano and guitar, ikura’s clear, translucent vocals resound.

Released digitally in March 2022, the song was also featured in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Calorie Mate commercial, touching the hearts of many.

The lyrics evoke the lively atmosphere of summer festivals and the poignant emotions of two people in love, bringing back the flutter of youthful days.

It’s a special song you’ll want to listen to with someone important.

Summer of LoveHirai Dai

Hirai Dai / Summer of Love (Lyric Video)
Summer of LoveHirai Dai

Hirai Dai’s latest release, heralding the refreshing arrival of summer, is the ultimate summer track, boldly infused with uptempo guitar sounds.

Released as a digital single on May 14, 2025, it’s the third installment in a series of four consecutive singles timed with his beach festival, “HIRAIDAI presents THE BEACH TRIP 2025.” It’s the perfect song for a breezy seaside drive or as background music for a beach party, and an ideal pick for music fans who love pop rock and J-pop.

Somewhere in the summerWANIMA

WANIMA "Somewhere in the Summer" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
Somewhere in the summerWANIMA

It’s a song brimming with WANIMA’s positive energy, perfect for kicking off a refreshing summer.

It portrays the determination to keep moving forward despite hesitation and the desire to cast off sorrow and shine like the sun, all carried by a powerful sound.

Included on the single “Summer Trap!!” released in July 2019, it was also featured as the CM song for Asahi Soft Drinks’ “Mitsuya Cider 2019.” Together with a music video that evokes scenes of summer festivals, the track is embraced as an uplifting anthem that gives you a push at the start of summer.

Highly recommended for anyone about to take on something new.

In the Blueikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari “In the Blue” (Mitsuya Cider theme song) Music Video
In the Blueikimonogakari

A refreshingly cool, exhilarating uptempo tune.

It portrays a coming-of-age story of young people who, while cherishing encounters and bonds with friends, discover their true selves—conveying an authentic, down-to-earth message characteristic of Ikimono-gakari.

Starting in March 2024, the song was also used in commercials as the theme for Asahi Soft Drinks’ 140th anniversary of Mitsuya Cider, and it was released as a double A-side single together with Harebare!, the opening theme for the TV anime Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin.

It’s the perfect track for karaoke with friends under the summer sky or for a refreshing change of mood.

Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new staple tracks that color the hot summer (91–100)

Bewitch it4na

4na – Bewitch (Music Video)
Bewitch it4na

This song has a stylish vibe—you’ve probably heard it somewhere before.

That’s because it was featured in the Try Group home tutoring commercial, “What If Summer Youth.” Despite the track’s sleek, cool impression, the lyrics—set against a summer backdrop—carry a passionate message like “Let’s live so we won’t have any regrets.” If you listen while reading all the lyrics, you’ll likely come away with a different impression, so give it a try.