[2026] Recommended Japanese songs for a spring drive: A roundup of perfect tracks for outings

melodramanatori & imase

natori & imase – Melodrama

A gem of a driving song where wistfulness and warmth coexist.

The retro-pop number woven by the gentle vocals of Natori and imase beautifully captures a nostalgic worldview.

Created to commemorate Nissan Motor’s 90th anniversary, the piece portrays the loneliness after a farewell—symbolized by the empty passenger seat—and the lingering attachment to the time spent together.

Released on August 30, 2024, it also drew attention as the theme song for Nissan’s 90th anniversary film, “NISSAN LOVE STORY.” It’s a heartwarming track that accompanies late-night drives while gazing at the city lights, or quiet moments when you want to linger in memories.

the first strong spring windnishina

haruichiban

Nishina’s song portrays the emotions of people facing farewells and new departures with the arrival of spring.

Built on the warm tones of an acoustic guitar and a simple band sound, the track is marked by a gentle yet fleeting vocal performance.

Chosen as the theme song for radiko’s new commercial, it was released digitally in March 2023.

By depicting both sides of the spring season—“parting” and “beginning”—the piece is crafted so listeners can layer it onto their own experiences.

It’s a song that resonates with many, embracing memories with loved ones, the loneliness of growing distant, and the resolve to keep moving forward.

UraraBikkeburanka

Vickeblanka – Ulala

You’ll be captivated by this pop number, brimming with a light, breezy atmosphere that evokes the cheerfulness of spring and the sense of new beginnings.

While the song centers on farewells and encounters in spring, it gently guides you toward a positive mindset.

Buoyant acoustic guitar and soaring vocals wrap the listener in warmth, as if giving a gentle push forward.

Released in April 2018 as the major-label debut single, the track opens with a goodbye at the doorstep and goes on to portray the courage and hope needed to take a new step.

It’s a song that will resonate with anyone facing a season of change—entering a new school, starting a job, or relocating.

to clear up (weather)Yorushika

Yorushika – Haru (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

When I close my eyes, feelings for someone dear well up inside me.

The soundscape—melding electronica and rock—built from a translucent singing voice, guitars, and synthesizers is striking.

This is a song Yorushika released in January 2024, depicting the anticipation of a bright future with the arrival of spring.

It was selected as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, and was also featured in a collaborative web commercial with Suntory’s gin SUI.

Its poetic world overlays the fluctuations of emotions—joy and pain, hope and despair—onto natural phenomena like rain and sunshine, offering comfort to those who feel lost while sensing the transience of spring.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Sakura Clear Skies

A heartwarming song by Yuuri! It’s a moving piece that gently embraces the feelings of those reaching the milestone of graduation.

Gratitude to family, memories with friends, and both the hopes and anxieties for the future are expressed through a tender voice and beautiful melody.

Released in February 2021 as a digital-only single, the song is also included on the album “Ichi,” and it has resonated with many listeners.

It’s often used at graduation ceremonies and related events, making it a recommended listen for the spring season.

Give it a try when you want to reflect on memories or when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

Sakura SongKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON “Sakura no Uta” Music Video

With a new member joining in 2022, the four-piece rock band KANA-BOON is expected to achieve even greater success going forward.

“Sakura no Uta,” which closes their first mini-album ‘Boku ga CD wo Dashitara,’ lifts your spirits with its melodic guitar intro and driving beat.

The lyrics, which bring to mind youthful romance, intertwine with springtime imagery to evoke a sentimental mood.

It’s a rock tune with a refreshing spring atmosphere—perfect for a drive during the bittersweet graduation season.

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Hoshino Takashi

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A single petal of cherry blossomMISIA

MISIA – One Petal of Cherry Blossom

This is a song that was also used as the theme for the drama Eternal Zero.

Its powerfully resonant vocals evoke the image of someone trying to send their song up to the distant sky.

The lyrics depict looking back on memories with someone once close, set against the scene of cherry blossoms dancing in the air.

In connection with the drama’s story, it also conveys a strong resolve to send one’s feelings skyward and to move forward into the future.

It’s a moving piece that seems to carry both sadness and hope as it goes.

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kappamaki

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