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

WonderlandNEW!Omoinotake

Omoinotake | Wonderland 【Official Music Video】

Omoinotake’s “Wonderland,” written as the theme song for Universal Studios Japan’s “Uniharu 2026” commercial, reframes parting not as a sad ending but as a step toward the next season—making it a perfect track for spring drives.

Its sprightly UK garage–inspired beat syncs with the scenery streaming past the car window, giving you that exhilarating feeling that you could just keep on going.

Released in January 2026, the song also drew attention for bringing in producer Koichi Tsutaya.

Blending the bittersweetness of graduation season with hope for the future, its melody gently pushes friends forward as they embark on new beginnings.

Turn up the volume as you make memories with friends or head toward someplace new!

BABYNEW!YOASOBI

YOASOBI「BABY」Official Music Video

Feeling the warm breeze as you drive down a road fluttering with cherry blossoms is a springtime pleasure like no other.

Released in January 2026, this new track from the music duo YOASOBI is one you’ll want to play on outings during this season.

It was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e.” Based on the original novel “My Dear……,” it depicts a pure love blossoming deep in the heart—something you can’t help but relate to.

Ikura’s crystal-clear vocals gently embrace the feelings that can’t be put into words.

The tender yet bittersweet sound is sure to color the time you share with someone special in the passenger seat.

Take this love song, brimming with the promise of romance, along for your drive!

saviorNEW!Rol3ert

Rol3ert “savior” MUSIC VIDEO

A single by Rol3ert, released in January 2026, that shines with a globally tuned pop sensibility.

Blending shimmering synths reminiscent of ’80s dance music with a modern beat, this track is perfect for lifting your mood on a spring drive.

The lyrics, infused with a strong will to move forward while seeking salvation, may give you the courage to take a step into a new season.

It was selected for power play on radio and cable music channels, and it also made waves as the first time the artist appeared on the cover art.

With its comfortably exhilarating momentum, it’s sure to blow your worries away and put you in a positive mindset as you hit the road.

Why not give it a listen while feeling the refreshing breeze in the gentle warmth of spring?

Let’s get started.NEW!Remioromen

Remioromen - Now, Let's Begin [Music Video]

After a long hiatus, Remioromen has finally made a hopeful comeback.

Included as their first new song in about 15 years on the album “SINGLES BEST+,” released in March 2026, this track is perfect for a springtime drive with the windows down.

With Takeshi Kobayashi joining the production, the exhilarating band sound—carried by Ryota Fujimaki’s expansive vocals—evokes both warm nostalgia and excitement for the future.

The video shot in their home prefecture of Yamanashi also drew attention, and if you listen to this song while cruising with the windows wide open, you’ll surely feel the courage to dive into new scenery.

Why not head out into the warm sunshine with this song that colors both reunions and new departures?

FanfareNEW!Tamaki Kōji

Koji Tamaki “Fanfare” MUSIC VIDEO (Theme song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘The Royal Family’)

Koji Tamaki’s “Fanfare” is perfect for a spring drive—one that makes you want to ride the wind down a road that stretches on forever.

Its exhilarating melody and powerhouse vocals are utterly compelling.

The song was crafted by layering memories of his childhood in Hokkaido with experiences of growing up alongside horses.

Rather than focusing on winning or losing, it’s an anthem that teaches the importance of moving straight ahead as your true self.

Released as a single in November 2025, it also drew attention as the theme song for the drama “The Royal Family.” Spring’s new beginnings often come with plenty of uncertainty, but if you hit the road with this track as your companion, it’s sure to fill you with courage.

When you want to believe in yourself and move forward, turn up the volume and give it a listen.

spring songNEW!AYANE

spring song

A medium-tempo ballad sung in the film by Ayane, who plays the heroine in The Song You Left Behind, and a key element of the story.

It’s also known for being written and composed by music producer Seiji Kameda, and it was released for streaming ahead of the full release in February 2026.

Its gentle message to someone who has gone their separate way and its worldview that overlaps with springtime scenery warmly envelop the listener’s heart.

Coloring the film’s moving scenes, this track is perfect for a solo drive spent in quiet contemplation on a mild spring day.

It’s a number you’ll want to take along on your spring outings—ideally while gazing at cherry blossoms through the car window, savoring the lingering afterglow of the story.

Late-blooming cherry blossomsNEW!AKB48

Nagorizakura

If you’re in the mood for a slightly sentimental drive while basking in the gentle spring sunlight, AKB48’s latest is the perfect pick.

Released in February 2026 as their 67th single, this track symbolizes a new step in the group’s 21st year.

19th-generation member Momoka Ito takes the center position for the first time, delicately expressing the mingled feelings of the glitter of bygone youth and anxieties about the future.

The coupling tracks also include a song born from the TV special “Yasushi Akimoto vs AI Yasushi Akimoto,” giving the release plenty of buzz.

As you gaze at familiar, nostalgic scenery and immerse yourself in a world that seems to ask who you really are, old memories may come flooding back.

It’s a song you’ll want to bring along on a springtime drive—one that gives you the courage to move forward, even while holding onto a touch of heartache.