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!
- [Driving the Coastline] Classic and Latest Songs Perfect for a Seaside Drive
- Drive Song Rankings [2026]
- A collection of summer-like songs: tracks that go perfectly with summer, like the sea and the sky.
- Perfect for driving BGM and karaoke! Recommended summer songs for people in their 40s [2026]
- [2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J-POP for People in Their 20s
- [2026 Updated] Western songs to listen to in summer: Recommended summer tunes
- Nostalgic Songs Perfect as Driving BGM for People in Their 40s
- [2026] Recommended Japanese songs for a spring drive: A roundup of perfect tracks for outings
- [Oldies] Summer Songs Recommended for People in Their 50s [2026]
- Going out will definitely be more fun! Drive songs recommended for Gen Z
- A song by a rock band bursting with exhilarating energy and a sense of speed that you want to listen to in the summer.
- [Standard] A Collection of Songs You Want to Listen to While Driving—Tunes You'll Find Yourself Humming
- [August Songs] Carefully selected masterpieces, classics, and the latest hits you’ll want to listen to in midsummer!
BGM for summer drives: A collection of songs that feel like summer [2026] (91–100)
Let’s Go to the Sea (feat. PES)Lisa Halim
This surf music features a groovy, Latin-tinged rhythm that resonates comfortably alongside the sound of the waves.
Lisa Halim’s husky yet gentle vocals blend seamlessly with PES’s cool rap (formerly of RIP SLYME), vividly expressing a longing for the sea and memories of summer.
Produced by DJ HASEBE, the track was released as a digital-only single in October 2020 and drew attention after being picked up by major Spotify playlists.
It’s the perfect song for a seaside drive or reminiscing about summer.
NEW ERANulbarich
This track features a sophisticated sound that blends soul and funk to exquisite effect, resonating pleasantly throughout.
Included on the album “Guess Who?” released in October 2016, it was used in a commercial for Honda’s GRACE, which rapidly boosted Nulbarich’s popularity.
The song carries a positive message that hints at the dawn of a new era, with lyrics weaving together English and Japanese for a distinctive appeal.
A wave-like, undulating bassline and light, breezy drum beats create a relaxed seaside vibe, making it perfect for casual settings like drives or gatherings with friends.
Midsummer MomentRYUSENKEI
A mellow sound that evokes summer memories, where the warm resonance of the Rhodes piano intertwines exquisitely with Sincere’s translucent vocals.
Released as a single in May 2025, the track encapsulates the charm of the reborn RYUSENKEI by Kunimond Takiguchi and Sincere.
It comes in two formats: digital distribution and a strictly limited 7-inch vinyl.
The B-side of the vinyl includes the 2025 remix version of “Time Traveler.” Perfect for a seaside drive or a relaxed summer evening.
Traffic JamSPiCYSOL
This song is a love track inspired by the traffic jams on National Route 134 in Shonan.
Featuring an upbeat rhythm and refreshing melody, it stands as a signature piece that embodies SPiCYSOL’s “Surf Beat Music” concept.
It was released digitally in advance in May 2019 and later included on the EP EASY-EP in August of the same year.
The song received power-play rotations on more than 17 radio stations nationwide and has been embraced by many listeners as the perfect soundtrack for summer drives.
Give it a listen for seaside drive dates or trips to Shonan with friends!
Come DownYo-Sea · MuKuRo
Like a breeze from Okinawa, this track by Yo-Sea and MuKuRo feels perfect for your summer playlist.
Yo-Sea’s sweet, wistful vocals and MuKuRo’s rhythmic flow layer over HOLLY’s wave-evoking production, wrapping you in a sense of calm the moment you press play.
Originally included on the compilation album “098RADIO vol.1 Hosted by Awich” in March 2023, the song later received a remix featuring Awich herself, released on “098RADIO vol.2 Hosted by Awich” in August 2024.
Whether you’re chilling by the beach at sunset or heading out for a drive, it’s guaranteed to set the mood just right.
If you want to soak in Okinawa’s vibes, this is a sound we highly recommend.
Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
This is a compelling track featuring a breezy pop-rock sound and abstract lyrics.
The song’s words portray the chaos of modern society and depict the complexity of life through a contrast between sweetness and bitterness.
Released in May 2015, it gained popularity as the ending theme for the TV anime Blood Blockade Battlefront.
It debuted at No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and has become one of UNISON SQUARE GARDEN’s signature songs.
Recommended for those who want to get hyped at summer festivals or seek deep messages in catchy melodies.
Its uptempo rhythm perfectly matches the liberating feel of summer, making it an ideal song for summer drives or outdoor BGM.
sunflowerAdo
A song brimming with hope for a bright future, like a sunflower stretching straight toward the sun.
It vividly portrays the feelings of a protagonist striving to live positively, and the bond with a cherished person who gently gives them a push forward.
Featuring Ado’s strikingly emotional vocals, this piece is recommended for those seeking the courage to gradually change their timid selves or to reflect on supportive relationships.
It’s a heartwarming track that quietly stays close to your heart, especially when listened to at the start of summer.