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

Doki itnaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – Doki it [Official Music Video]

It’s a refreshing, spring-breeze-like song delivered by Naniwa Danshi.

From a brisk, popping rock sound to a gentle, translucent melody, it overflows with fun and warmth.

Its appeal also lies in the encouraging, forward-looking message that celebrates individuality and gives you the courage to take a new step as yourself.

Set for release on February 26, 2025, the track is also featured in a commercial.

It’s perfect for a pleasant spring drive or for anyone starting a new chapter in life.

Like being wrapped in warm sunlight, it lifts your spirits with a bright, feel-good energy.

When cherry-blossom hues danceNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima “Sakurairo Mau Koro” MUSIC VIDEO Shorts ver.

Among Mika Nakashima’s many hit songs like “STARS” and “WILL,” this is her first so-called “sakura song.” It’s also popular among other artists and has been covered by the likes of Ryoko Moriyama and Hideaki Tokunaga.

The song blends Nakashima’s mysterious, seductive image with the hazy feel of early spring in a striking way, creating a very unique atmosphere.

If possible, it’s the kind of track you’d want to listen to while driving through avenues of cherry trees.

The lyrics can even be taken as a vow of eternal love, so it’s perfect for a drive date with your girlfriend!

That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky19

That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky

A song that captures a vivid moment of youth was brought to life by 19.

Entrusting dreams scribbled on the back of a test to a paper airplane and letting it fly into the sky beautifully expresses the pure longing and anxiety of young people.

With delicate sensibility and a warm sound, it gently envelops the wavering emotions unique to adolescence.

Released in March 1999, the track was used as a TBS campaign song and reached No.

6 on the Oricon charts.

It was also performed at that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Included on the albums “Ongaku” and “19 BEST●Ao,” it has been loved for many years.

It’s a song that will quietly stay by the side of anyone taking a new step forward with the arrival of spring.

Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song)Vaundy

Monster’s Flower Song / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

Singer-songwriter Vaundy, who dominates the J-POP scene with his cutting-edge musical sensibilities and multifaceted talent spanning artwork and video, has released Kaiju no Hanauta as the song for Maruha Nichiro’s WILDish series commercial “For Us.” The track was pre-released from his first album, strobo.

Its catchy, floating melody evokes a refreshing spring breeze.

It’s a pop tune that showcases Vaundy’s modern sensibilities and will elevate any drive.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Become the wind[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Become the Wind (MV)

A song by the rock band [Alexandros], which was also used in a car commercial.

The brisk acoustic guitar strumming and the soaring high-tone vocals create an image that, just like the title suggests, makes you feel as if you’ve become the wind.

The atmosphere that makes you want to break into a run and the lyrics that evoke a fresh start make it a perfect fit for a spring drive.

It’s a track you’ll want to play to boost your energy when you’re heading out on a trip.

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Hoshino Takashi

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wandererOkuda Tamio

Tamio Okuda 'Sasurai' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A signature song by Tamio Okuda that needs no introduction, released as his eighth single in 1998.

The song treats aimless wandering—“sasurai”—as a journey through life, and it really resonated with many people.

A life without journeys would be boring! That slight feeling of uncertainty and the thrill of excitement both feed into hope for what’s ahead, and the exhilarating vibe really lifts you up.

With its sense of speed and momentum, it makes you want to blast it in the car and sing at the top of your lungs.

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hiyori

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sparkleFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Kirari (Official Video)

Fujii Kaze’s signature song—made even more popular by the 2021 NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen—shows an unstoppable rise.

Its groovy sound, crystal-clear vocals, and rhythmical, rhyming lyrics create a sparkling atmosphere perfect for spring.

Written specifically as the theme song for Honda’s VEZEL commercial, it’s tailor-made for a drive.

It’s the kind of dance-pop with universal appeal that slips effortlessly into anyone’s ears—making you want to hit the road and slice through the wind with a light, carefree feel.

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hiyori

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