BGM for summer drives: A roundup of songs that feel like summer [2026]

Summer Splash!arashi

ARASHI – ARAFES NATIONAL STADIUM 2012

Your heart will dance to the light rhythm! This song by Japan’s beloved idol group Arashi is included on their ninth album, “Boku no Miteiru Fūkei,” released in 2010.

It drew attention as the CM song for JAL’s “JAL Wakuwaku Aloha Project 2010.” Its sound evokes an image of an endlessly blue sky, perfectly matching the refreshingly upbeat lyrics that say, “Let’s enjoy summer to the fullest!” It’s a feel-good pop tune that clears your mind, packed with the power to blow the heat away!

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Nagisasupittsu

Spitz / Nagisa

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.

SUMMER BREEZEgo!go!vanillas

go!go!vanillas – SUMMER BREEZE Music Video

The track by go!go!vanillas that feels like opening the door to midsummer is a summer rock anthem that makes your heart dance just by listening.

While grounded in their signature rock ’n’ roll, the song features a refreshingly cool sound that delves further into elements of Western rock and folk, letting you catch an early taste of midsummer from the fresh-green season.

Released in May 2018 as one of the double A-side single “SUMMER BREEZE / Stand by Me,” it was also selected as the opening theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02” that same month.

The release was widely embraced by listeners, peaking at No.

20 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Open the windows and feel the breeze as you drive along the coast, or play it in the car on your way to a lively barbecue with friends—either way, it will help you create the best summer memories.

A Little Love SongMONGOL800

A Small Love Song – MONGOL800 | With Lyrics

This is a timeless song by MONGOL800, whose straightforward lyrics and exhilarating, fast-paced melody strike a chord.

Portraying the warmth of having someone precious right by your side and a clear hope for the future, this piece gently accompanies listeners in their everyday lives.

The song is included on the album “MESSAGE,” released in September 2001, which, despite being an indie release, sold over 2.8 million copies.

It has served as a motif for films and as an ending theme for TV anime, making it a track beloved across generations.

Be sure to give it a listen during summer drives or while spending time with friends.

End of the Summer RetreatWurtS

WurtS – Summer’s End (Official Audio)

WurtS’s work, which deftly paints bittersweet summer scenes, is drawing attention as the perfect choice when you want to sink into an emo mood.

This piece captures the wavering emotions characteristic of one’s mid-twenties and the melancholy of summer’s end, expressed through a sound that fuses polished city pop with alternative influences.

The theme, inspired by Buddhist terminology, adds further depth.

The track is included on the EP “MAGICAL SOUP,” released in June 2021, and WurtS later provided a song for Toyota’s Corolla commercial.

Be sure to savor it alongside the lyrics during a summer sunset or whenever you find yourself seeking a moment of release.

COCONUTNiziU

NiziU(니쥬) 2nd Album「COCONUT」M/V

Perfect for the season when the summer sun is dazzling, this is a summery track from NiziU’s album “COCONUT.” Just listening to it lifts your spirits, evoking a refreshing scene of blue skies and the sea.

Its vibrant sound makes summer memories with friends shine, and the nine members’ vocals convey the openness and positive energy of summer.

The album “COCONUT,” which includes this song, was released in July 2023 and debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Albums Chart with 142,000 copies sold in its first week.

The album also features the movie theme song “Paradise” and the drama theme song “LOOK AT ME.” It’s a perfect pick to elevate karaoke, road trips, and all your summer outings—highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy the season.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

This signature number from back number is guaranteed to get everyone hyped during summer drives and karaoke—surely a staple summer song that resonates with many.

The track stands out for expressing the bittersweet feelings of an unrequited crush—yearning for someone who won’t look your way—set to a refreshing, fast-paced sound.

While the lyrics portray the woman he admires as someone out of reach, the charm lies in the protagonist’s comical side, drifting into fanciful daydreams and then snapping back to reality.

It captures the perfect interplay between the liberating feel of summer and the frustration of a distance that just won’t close.

Released as a single in June 2013, it was later included on the album “Love Story.” In 2019, it drew fresh attention when vocalist Iyori Shimizu performed a stripped-down version for Kirin Brewery’s Tanrei Green Label TV commercial.

If you want to relive the sweet-and-sour pangs of a one-sided crush, or you’re on your way to a summer event, this song will instantly lift your spirits.

And if you sing it with friends at karaoke, you’re guaranteed to get the whole room going in shared excitement!