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

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

Naotaro Moriyama, who is also active as an actor.

I can’t count how many times I cried because of Mr.

Todo, the character he played in the recent NHK morning drama series “Yell.” The scene where he confidently sings “Song of the Burma Expeditionary Force” was breathtakingly moving.

Speaking of Naotaro Moriyama’s signature songs, it has to be “Sakura,” doesn’t it? The music video where he sings the entire song accompanied only by Nobuo Kurata’s piano is nothing short of overwhelming.

It makes you think he’s not just an artist, but a true vocalist—a real singer.

Watching cherry blossoms slowly fall while driving leisurely along the coastline, and then “Sakura” comes on—at that point, you don’t need anything else.

SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Sakurazaka (Full ver.)

A quintessential song by Masaharu Fukuyama, the kind of “man’s man” who wins men over, too.

From hooky, rock-tinged tracks to tender ballads about human affection, and even instrumental pieces like “vs.

~The Spiral of Perception and Pleasure~,” Fukuyama’s range is truly remarkable.

When Sakura-zaka became a hit, it caused such a stir that everyone kept asking, “Where is this slope, anyway?”—it never lacks for topics of conversation.

The lyrics, with their vibe of “the cherry-blossom slope that remains beautifully in my memories, and the feelings of a past love that are unchanged even now,” are simply perfect.

It makes me want to take a slow drive in a convertible down a quiet country road while listening to this song.

spring thunderYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Spring Thunder

Kenshi Yonezu is a singer-songwriter who has produced numerous buzzworthy tracks in the J-POP scene since 2010 and continues to evolve.

Shunrai, included on his major third album BOOTLEG, is a satisfying number featuring a catchy melody and urban arrangement.

Its rapidly unfolding melodic lines seem to sync with the changing scenery you see while driving.

With an ensemble that carries a distinctive sense of buoyancy, it’s a pop tune that lingers in your ears and begs to be replayed again and again.

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Hoshino Takashi

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spring sunlightKanapu × Kujira

[Suite] KAFU × Kujira #97 “Spring Sunlight” [Original MV]

Gently depicting the scene of a graduation ceremony, this work is a warm piece like the fleeting light of spring.

The refreshing piano melody and KAFU’s translucent vocals beautifully capture both the bittersweetness and hope of the cherry blossom season, harmonizing wonderfully with Kujira’s delicate production.

Created in March 2022, it was released to coincide with KAFU’s milestone high school graduation and is also included on the album “Suite.” The lyrics accompany even the bright moments of parting, overflowing with a kindness like a pep song that gives you the courage to open a new door.

How about adding this fresh and warm track to a drive under the gentle spring sunlight?

Spring ~spring~Hysteric Blue

Haru ~spring~ (春~spring~)

A signature song by the band Hysteric Blue, who emerged from the street-performance paradise in front of Osaka Castle Park known as “Jōten,” and also their best-selling track.

There’s even an anecdote that drummer Takuya wrote this song when he was in high school.

The breakup-themed lyrics—“When spring comes, I remember how much I loved you; even as time passes, that never fades”—feel as if Hys*Blu wraps them in brightness.

It’s a song that helps you look forward to your next love.

Tama’s vocals, soaring brilliantly into the high notes, were also deeply memorable.

It’s a nostalgic tune that makes you want to pull that CD out of the dresser and give it a spin on a drive.

CHERRYBLOSSOM10-FEET

CHERRY BLOSSOM

10-FEET is a three-piece rock band that has gained popularity for hosting the large-scale Kyoto festival “Kyoto Daisakusen,” which has been running since 2007, and for their music that embraces a wide range of genres.

“CHERRY BLOSSOM,” included on their first album springman, kicks off with the chorus—an arrangement that instantly cranks up the energy.

Its straightforward message, carried by a loud, high-velocity ensemble, is perfect for enhancing that exhilarating feeling you get on a drive.

With its rapid-fire song structure that creates an addictive pull, it’s a rock tune you’ll want to play on a spring outing.

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Hoshino Takashi

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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!