BGM for summer drives: A roundup of songs that feel like summer [2026]
In summer, there are more chances to go out by car—like heading to the beach or mountains, or returning to your hometown! At times like that, you probably want to be picky about your in-car BGM and look for summer-themed driving songs, right? In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of classic Japanese tracks perfect for summer drives—from the latest hits to timeless favorites.
We’ve selected songs themed around driving and summer, as well as stylish city pop, mellow and emotional tunes, and high-energy tracks that are perfect for the road.
Be sure to use this as a reference!
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BGM for summer drives: A collection of songs that feel like summer [2026] (61–70)
Samama Festival!Mrs. GREEN APPLE
It’s an energetic track that feels like a summer festival turned into music.
Released in June 2016, it was also used as the theme song for a Nihon Kogakuin College commercial.
The lyrics capture the excitement of summer vacation, inspiring you to break free from boring routines and have as much fun as you can.
Its bursting melodies and rhythms are perfect as background music for hanging out with friends or going on family outings.
It’s sure to color your best summer memories—so give it a listen.
Midsummer Sounds Good!AKB48
This is a summer tune by AKB48 that was also used as the theme song for NTT Docomo’s “Ouen Gakuwari” campaign.
Set on a sun-drenched beach, it portrays the sparkling feelings of a protagonist who, buoyed by the liberating spirit of summer, becomes a little bolder in love.
The upbeat, fast-paced sound perfectly matches the positive lyrics about wanting to take the next step in a romance.
Released in May 2012 as the group’s 26th single, the song won the 54th Japan Record Award that same year.
It’s guaranteed to boost the mood to the max when played at summer get-togethers with friends or on a drive.
Ocean ViewBAD HOP
This work captivates with its dazzling sound, as if it captured the very best moments shared with friends.
Riding a tropical, exhilarating beat, it paints an extraordinary scene of escaping the everyday to enjoy a seaside party.
Each member’s distinctive rap vividly reflects the crew’s lifestyle and strong bonds.
Released in September 2017, the track is included on BAD HOP’s second nationwide release album, “Mobb Life.” Symbolic of the group’s meteoric rise, the album boasts a highly popular music video for this song, which has amassed over 38 million views on YouTube.
It’s the perfect track to elevate your mood for summer drives or beach gatherings.
If you’re looking to create an unforgettable summer with your friends, be sure to give it a listen!
One Love feat. kZmBIM
Perfect for those slightly sentimental summer evenings, this collaboration track by BIM and kZm sets the mood just right.
Released digitally in August 2020 and included on the album “Boston Bag” the same month, the song features a tropical, mellow dancehall sound produced by G.RINA.
Centered on the theme of “One Love,” it captures the bittersweetness of a summer romance, wavering emotions, and the pursuit of dreams, with a faintly frustrating, yearning undertone.
The tight back-and-forth between the two—close allies—makes for a key highlight.
In the music video directed by Heiyuu, their expressions convey that sense of pent-up longing.
Give it a listen on a summer drive or during a quiet night alone lost in thought.
My Resort¥ellow bucks
It’s a captivating track with soothing sounds that make you feel as if you’re on a private beach.
On Tee’s production, ¥ellow Bucks unfolds a world where the sparkle of an extraordinary resort intersects with fleeting scenes from everyday life.
The song is included on his milestone debut album “Jungle,” released in August 2020, and its colorful music video, shot in Okinawa, drew major attention, topping various music video charts in Japan.
It’s guaranteed to lift your spirits on a summer drive or whenever you want to unwind a little.
My Resort Pt. 2¥ellow bucks
If you’re looking for a moment of calm on a summer evening, this track is highly recommended.
Delivered by ¥ellow Bucks, it wraps you in a relaxed sense of freedom, as if you were spending time at your own private hideaway resort.
As the title “Pt.
2” suggests, it expands a worldview where you can feel the inner changes you discover upon returning to a familiar place, and the deeper layers that emerge from that experience.
Featured on the album “Jungle 2,” released in September 2024, this piece also reflects the fact that ¥ellow Bucks serves as the official ambassador for the mineral water brand “nix.” Its cool, sophisticated beat offers a refreshing sensation that seeps into a body warmed by the summer heat.
It’s perfect for a drive or for unwinding at home—give it a listen.
Even those who don’t usually listen to hip-hop will likely be drawn in by its charm.
Nagisasupittsu
An unforgettable classic with a melody that blends freshness and bittersweet longing, vividly summoning scenes of summer! The poetic world spun by Masamune Kusano may seem like a summer love story at first glance, but beneath the surface lies a profound theme where reality and fantasy intersect.
Nostalgia for days gone by and the faint light of a protagonist who still tries to look ahead gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.
Released as a Spitz single in September 1996, the track was included the following year on the album Indigo Chiheisen (Indigo Horizon).
Many will also remember it fondly as the CM song for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Koi Monogatari.” Its shimmering sound makes it perfect for summer drive playlists, and it’s an ideal companion for cruising along the seaside at twilight or for a solo trip when you want to indulge in a bit of quiet reflection.