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

Is spring here yet?Hamada Masatoshi

Is spring here yet?

Produced by Tamio Okuda, this song centers on themes of travel and self-discovery, distinguished by a warm atmosphere that gently embraces the feelings of a solitary traveler.

With delicate lyrics, it portrays a man striving to find his true self within the vastness of the universe.

Released in December 1997, the track was featured as the campaign song for JR East’s “JR Ski Ski,” and became a hit, reaching No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Okuda’s signature simple, comfortable melody beautifully captures the longing for spring’s arrival, making it a song that resonates with those who look forward to a new season or are determined to walk their own path.

Gazing up, the sky is blueHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Aogeba Aozora Music Video

This work beautifully portrays graduation as a milestone in life.

Motohiro Hata’s clear, translucent voice captures both the sadness of parting and the hope of a new beginning in full.

Released in March 2019, it garnered attention as the theme song for a SoftBank TV commercial.

While cherishing past memories, this piece gives you the courage to take a step toward the future.

It’s a song I hope those embarking on a new chapter will listen to as spring arrives.

Its heartfelt melody and lyrics will surely give you a gentle push forward.

LOSERYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – LOSER

A song by Kenshi Yonezu that leaves a strong impression with its portrayal of moving forward despite setbacks and self-denial.

The protagonist, who tends to see themselves negatively, accepts that state yet still tries to take action, and their straightforward sincerity is deeply moving.

Released in September 2016 and included on the album BOOTLEG, the track was also used in 2018 for Honda’s JADE commercial.

It’s a song I recommend to anyone who’s trying to face forward and keep going while carrying their own weaknesses and imperfections.

It will surely be a source of support on a Golden Week drive.

WINDING ROADAyaka × Kobukuro

Kobukuro – WINDING ROAD (Ayaka × Kobukuro)

This song resonates with a refreshing melody that evokes the arrival of spring and warm lyrics that give you the courage to move forward.

A collaboration between Ayaka and Kobukuro, it was released in February 2007 and became well-known as the theme for the Nissan Cube commercial.

As you walk the winding road of life, it gently speaks to the importance of believing in a small light and moving forward step by step—making it the perfect cheer-up song for those feeling anxious about a new life or fresh challenges.

Wrapped in vocals that feel close to the heart, you’ll find the courage to keep walking in your own way.

FlowerFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Hana (Official Video)

Fujii Kaze’s latest work poetically expresses the transience and preciousness of life, offering a song that stays close to the feelings of someone searching for their own path amid uncertainty.

With a gentle voice that encourages believing in your inner light and living true to yourself, and a soothing melody infused with jazz elements, it leaves a lasting impression.

Released in October 2023, it drew attention as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama “The Best-Loved Flower.” The music video, filmed in New South Wales, Australia, symbolically portrays the boundary between life and death.

It’s a great pick to listen to alone on a long drive, and also as background music when you want to reflect on yourself.

spring skySuzuki Suzuki

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】

A heartwarming spring song from Suzuki Suzuki.

Centered on themes of graduation, encounters, and farewells, it gently sings about memories and friendships from school days.

With beautiful harmonies and a refreshing melody, this piece resonates deeply with listeners.

It was released digitally in February 2022 and is also included on their first album, “313.” It has become a staple song that many people listen to during graduation season.

Highly recommended for those embarking on a new chapter or looking back on cherished memories.

I heard the sound of cherry blossoms blooming.＝LOVE

=LOVE (Equal Love) / 1st ALBUM track 'I Heard the Sound of Cherry Blossoms Blooming' MV [YouTube ver.]

This is a heartwarming =LOVE song that gently conveys the arrival of spring.

It portrays a faint, bittersweet first love by likening the flutter of a first crush to the invisible scene of “the sound of cherry blossoms blooming.” The reasons the protagonist prefers riding in the third car of the school commuter train, and the care she takes with her hairstyle, convey the feelings of a girl earnestly navigating her first love despite her confusion.

Included on the May 2021 album “Zenbu, Naisho.” (“Everything’s a Secret.”), the song also drew attention for its refreshingly springlike visual beauty in the music video.

It’s a perfect track for the spring season—one that makes your heart flutter when listened to at the start of a new school term.

It’s recommended not only for those in love, but also for anyone who wants to enjoy the spirit of spring.