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

KYOTOJUDY AND MARY

JUDY & MARY WARP TOUR FINAL ~part 11~ KYOTO

JUDY AND MARY is a perfect bullseye for people in their 50s.

Among their songs, the rare track that sings about Kyoto is “KYOTO.” It’s a song that’s sparked plenty of talk—there are different versions depending on the album, and the guitar riff is downright divine.

The lyrics, which give off a romance vibe like “I’ll come to see you when the cherry blossoms bloom,” embody spring itself, the season of many meetings and farewells.

The midtempo feel of the track also fits YUKI’s vocal tone perfectly.

Place names from Kyoto even appear in the lyrics, so be sure to play it on your drive to Kyoto!

apple pieRyukku to soine gohan

apple pie

Ryoku to Soinen Gohan is a four-piece rock band whose potential has been a hot topic, releasing nationally distributed tracks since their high school days.

Apple Pie, included on their second album Shiki (Four Seasons), is notable for its sprightly guitar sound and shuffle-beat rhythm.

Its somewhat nostalgic arrangement makes you feel like you want to travel far just by listening.

It’s a sing-along number that warmly envelops the car interior on a spring drive.

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Hoshino Takashi

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sailing dayBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「sailing day」

A work depicting the courage and hope to face destiny was released in March 2003.

Even mistakes and failures, like beloved treasures, may be unique riches that belong only to each person.

Filled with a cheer for foolish dreamers who chase their dreams, it delivers the united hearts of all the members.

This gem of a song is included on the album Yggdrasil and was also chosen as the theme song for the film ONE PIECE THE MOVIE: The Dead End Adventure.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and marked the band’s first-ever 100,000 copies sold in its debut week.

It’s a track that warmly embraces your back as you take a new step forward.

I Gotta Go feat. kojikoji, WILYWNKA & HiplinGeG

With Lyrics: GeG / I Gotta Go feat. kojikoji, WILYWNKA & Hiplin (official audio)

A warm, heartfelt song that’s perfect as BGM for graduation season.

Released in March 2020 and produced by GeG, it features standout artists whose talents shine through—WILYWNKA, who’s also active as a member of Hentai Shinshi Club, along with kojikoji and Hiplin.

With gentle piano tones, it beautifully evokes the universal themes of “farewell” and “new beginnings,” set against the springtime scenery of blooming cherry blossoms.

The music video stars popular influencer Naenano, artfully expressing the arrival of spring.

Loved as an uplifting anthem for those graduating or stepping into a new phase of life, this track is highly recommended when you want to collect your thoughts before starting a new chapter.

InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Inferno

A rock number that unleashes the intensity of blazing flames, with exhilarating guitar sounds and overwhelming vocals! Released in July 2019 as the opening theme for the anime Fire Force, this track is loved as one of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s signature songs.

Its lyrics—resonating with those who, despite anxiety and restlessness, wish to keep moving forward—are perfectly matched with its energetic sound.

Put it on your speakers during a long drive, and you’ll feel a refreshing rush that makes the travel time something to look forward to.

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

It’s a heartwarming song you’ll want to listen to during the season when cherry blossoms flutter in the air.

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s delicate vocals gently embrace the loneliness of graduation and farewells, as well as the anticipation of a new beginning.

Released in February 2018 as the B-side to the single “Love me, Love you,” the track was also featured in a commercial for Suntory’s Craft Boss.

Its melody and lyrics poignantly capture the melancholy and wistfulness that come with the arrival of spring, making it a recommended listen during graduation and school entrance ceremony season.

It’s a song that will resonate with those who want to reminisce about their youth or who feel anxious about starting a new chapter in life.

RPGSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

This is a striking song with a grand narrative that likens life to an adventure.

The protagonist keeps moving forward, gazing up at the stars alone while holding precious memories close.

Their resilience in overcoming loneliness and setbacks, and their resolve to face forward with hope, is deeply moving.

SEKAI NO OWARI’s otherworldly sound blends beautifully with the symphonic arrangement.

Released in May 2013, the track was used as the theme song for the animated film Crayon Shin-chan: Very Tasty! B-class Gourmet Survival!! and is also included on the album Tree.

It’s a song that stays by your side when you’re at a crossroads in life, when you want to find your own path, and when you’re ready to take a new step on your journey.