[Summer Anisongs] Iconic and Popular Anime Tracks That Feel Like Summer

Ripe AsterKairi Yagi

Kairi Yagi “Ripe Aster”

Singer-songwriter Kairi Yagi heals listeners’ hearts with her crystal-clear, beautiful voice.

Her major-label debut single, “Ripe Aster,” released digitally in 2021, was chosen as the theme song for the anime “The Irregular at Magic High School: Reminiscence Arc.” The track’s mid-tempo groove is marked by strikingly lush strings, and her charming, slightly innocent vocal delivery is soothing as well.

It’s also recommended to savor the beauty of the Japanese lyrics as you listen.

Why not give it a spin while reminiscing about an unforgettable summer romance?

Summer vacation never endssphere

Summer vacation never ends

This is a cover of the Onyanko Club classic, sung by the voice-actor artist unit Sphere.

The fact that it was also used as an insert song in the anime Natsuiro Kiseki, which was conceived with the four members in mind, adds to the summer vibe.

While preserving the feel of the original, the more beat-driven arrangement really conveys the excitement for summer vacation.

The combination of Sphere’s bright vocals and the powerful sound evokes a determination to enjoy the summer break to the fullest.

A wish in summerPenthouse

Penthouse – A Wish for Summer [Official Music Video]

Penthouse is a six-member coed city-soul band formed in a University of Tokyo music club, active under the concept of exploring music that adds a touch of style to everyday life.

Their digital single Natsu ni Negai wo, released for streaming on July 12, 2023, draws you into its world from the opening, featuring a refreshing string sound.

The lyrics portray the feeling of being unable to express your emotions as time slips by, and combined with summer’s sentimental atmosphere, they’re sure to tug at your heart.

With its driving beat and stylish arrangement, this pop tune is a comfortable listen that turns up the heat for the season.

SunflowerPhilosophy’s Dance

Philosophy no Dance "Sunflower" Music Video

Philosophy no Dance is a five-member idol group that captivates fans with funk- and R&B-based songs and philosophical lyrics.

Their major 4th single’s title track, “Sunflower,” was chosen as the theme song for the animated film Hula Fulla Dance.

Its message—bloom toward the sun like a sunflower—offers an empowering push for anyone striving toward big dreams.

With funky guitar cutting and a clear, shimmering string ensemble, it’s a refreshing, summer-infused dance tune.

Finale.eill

eill | Finale. (Official Music Video)

The anime film The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbye portrays a romance between students that unfolds over the summer.

Its opening theme is Finale.

Written specifically for the film by singer-songwriter eill, the song expresses the desire to stay forever with the one you love.

It’s wonderful on its own, but after watching the film, it will resonate even more deeply.

Highlights include eill’s high-toned voice and her distinctive singing style with rich vibrato.

Starting Oversumika

sumika / Starting Over [Music Video] - TV Anime “MIX MEISEI STORY: The Second Summer, Beyond the Sky” Opening Theme

Sweltering summer heat and a cool, gentle breeze drifting through it—Starting Over paints a scene brimming with that seasonal atmosphere.

It’s the opening theme for the baseball anime MIX MEISEI STORY: Beyond the Sky, Second Summer, and it sings of the protagonist’s passion as he aims for Koshien alongside summer landscapes.

That makes it a great pick as a cheer song, too.

Also, pay attention to how it builds toward the end, with the addition of chorus parts and key changes that lift the excitement.

AoreidoAiri Miyakawa

Airi Miyakawa MV “Aoreido”

The soccer anime “Shoot! Goal to the Future.” Its opening theme, created by Airi Miyakawa, is “Aoraid.” Riding on a high-tempo, Asian-flavored sound, this song expresses the feelings of the protagonists as they face challenges.

She says the lyrics were inspired by players competing under the blue sky and the sight of them sprinting with vigor.

With its powerful message, it also feels like the perfect cheer song for pushing yourself during the summer.