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

cherrysupittsu

Spitz / Cherry

Spitz are a four-piece rock band known for their unforgettable, once-heard-never-forgotten high-tone vocals.

Their 13th single, “Cherry,” became a million seller despite having no commercial tie-in, cementing Spitz’s popularity as a massive hit.

Its buoyant, floating melody over a brisk shuffle beat perfectly channels the feeling of spring and makes any drive more exciting.

Since its release, it has been covered by numerous musicians and stands as a quintessential pop tune of the 1990s J-pop scene.

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Hoshino Takashi

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It’s okayMarushii

Marsi – It's Okay (Official Music Video)

An uplifting song by Marcy distinguished by its refreshing guitar sound and a melody that resonates deep in the heart.

Delivered with warm vocals, its positive message gently encourages anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

Imbued with the resolve to cherish your true self and move forward step by step, the track was released digitally in March 2023.

With exhilarating, fast-paced sounds, it drew attention as a motivational song written specifically for Pocari Sweat’s web movie “Our Now.” It’s a perfect song for you who are about to take a new step under the cheerful spring skies.

Papillon ~papillon~Shimatani Hitomi

Hitomi Shimatani / “Papillon ~papillon~” [OFFICIAL MV FULL SIZE]

It’s a cover of Janet Jackson’s “Doesn’t Really Matter,” with the lyrics rearranged around an Asian theme.

Even though the sound seems almost unchanged from the original, the lyrics’ vivid world-building somehow evokes an Asian atmosphere.

Overall, it has a calm vibe, yet the strong, resonant beat also gives it a dance music feel.

The inclusion of words from Asian languages in the lyrics is particularly memorable.

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kappamaki

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Happinessarashi

ARASHI – Happiness [Official Music Video]

A track bursting with the exhilaration of sprinting through the wind! Its bright melody and powerful rhythm bring a buoyant sense of elation.

The lyrics, infused with a positive message, blend perfectly with the light, lively sound, resulting in a piece that feels like it gives you the courage to step into a new world.

It was also beloved as the theme song for the drama “Yamada Taro Monogatari,” encouraging many people along the way.

It’s the perfect song for a drive wrapped in the warmth of spring, with a gentle breeze at your side!

Sakura, Bloom!arashi

Sakura, Bloom!

This is a masterpiece in which gem-like messages that seep into the heart on a gentle spring breeze are expressed through Arashi’s magnificent vocals and harmonies.

Through the beauty and transience of cherry blossoms, it gently sings of life’s changes and renewal, and hope for the future.

Filled with feelings that resonate with the arrival of spring—moving forward as if guided by the wind, understanding that deepens over time, and challenges toward a new self—it was released in February 2015 and chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “Ouroboros: This Love Is, Indeed, Justice.” It is also included on the album “Japonism,” and you can see it performed in the live video work “ARASHI BLAST in Miyagi.” With a refreshing vibe perfect for a spring drive and lyrics that give you the courage to move forward, it’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend for the start of a new season.

Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

Takanori Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Here is a graduation song filled with bittersweet feelings, bathed in the gentle light of spring.

The melody woven by Takaya Kawasaki delicately conveys, with his tender vocals, the emotions of a protagonist who cannot express their feelings in a classroom where cherry blossoms dance in March.

The soft metaphor of likening a boy who can’t be honest about his feelings to a rabbit is especially striking.

Released in January 2021, this piece is also included on the album “Nukumori,” and it has soothed the hearts of many.

It’s a song you’ll want to play while driving through the city, carried by a fresh spring breeze.

Perfect for the graduation season, for moments of reminiscing about youth, or for warming thoughts of someone dear.

Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako

Takako Matsu – When Spring Comes Tomorrow

A gem of a melody played as if to celebrate the arrival of a new season, carried by the refreshing spring breeze.

Takako Matsu’s clear voice gently wraps nostalgic memories and the hope of reunion.

Feelings for someone devoted to baseball, cherished places shared with a loved one—vivid snapshots of youth are drawn and resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in March 1997 as her debut, it was featured in an NTT commercial and reached No.

8 on the Oricon charts.

Lyrics by Yuji Sakamoto, music and arrangement by Daisuke Hinata, the song is polished and refined.

It’s perfect for a drive under gentle spring sunshine—highly recommended for those starting a new chapter or wishing to look back on precious memories.

When the warm weather lifts your spirits, this song will be there, close to your heart.