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 roundup of songs that feel like summer [2026] (111–120)
Summer NudeMagokoro Burazāzu
When it comes to the ultimate relaxing summer tune, isn’t it “Summer Nude”? Released by Magokoro Brothers in 1995, it’s a classic that continues to be covered over time.
The pop and funky melody and sound make your heart bounce! It’s a perfect match for a drive, and the music video’s summer vibe even features the duo PUFFY before their debut, set along the water’s edge.
The everlasting-summer mood and the childlike nostalgia it evokes feel gently laid-back and comfortable.
My Sweet Darlin’Yaita Hitomi
Upbeat songs are perfect for both driving and karaoke, aren’t they? Among them, songs with catchy phrases everyone can sing along to are the best, don’t you think? That’s why I want to introduce “My Sweet Darlin’.” It’s Hitomi Yaida’s second single.
I bet everyone knows the lyrics with the title phrase.
Try picking it when you want to get everyone hyped.
It’s also recommended if you’re looking for a song that portrays the bittersweet romance of summer.
Live the summerRyokushokushakai
This is a song that powerfully evokes the spirit of summer youth, and it was also chosen as the theme song for high school baseball by Ryokuoushoku Shakai.
While it’s built on a driving band sound that feels like you’re sprinting under a wide-open blue sky, the accents from the guitar and piano also convey a touch of wistfulness.
The bittersweet sense that the precious time of youth passes in an instant, and the desire to live every limited moment to the fullest, comes through straight and true.
It’s clean and easy on the ears—perfect as background music for a drive.
ultra soulB’z
B’z is a rock unit that continues to lead Japan’s rock scene, repeatedly evolving while maintaining a solid signature style.
Their 31st single “ultra soul,” used as the theme song for World Aquatics broadcasts, blends techno textures with Latin beats to deliver a rock sound that really cranks up the energy.
The chorus makes you want to throw your fist in the air, instantly hyping up the atmosphere in the car on a drive.
Frequently performed as a staple at their live shows, it’s one of B’z’s signature songs.
A Perfect SkyBONNIE PINK
Singer-songwriter BONNIE PINK, whose smash hit “Heaven’s Kitchen” upended the J-POP norm that English-lyric songs don’t sell, did it again with her 21st single “A Perfect Sky.” Originally created only up to the chorus and later featured in Shiseido’s ANESSA commercial, its liberating melody really sticks with you.
The refreshing feel that conjures a sky as blue as the title suggests makes it perfect BGM for summer outings.
It’s a dazzling number that will liven up the car as you drive toward your destination.
Rhapsody in BlueDA PUMP
A DA PUMP track that portrays the fresh romance of teenagers.
Listening to this song might make some of you feel nostalgic for the love you experienced in your younger days.
With its upbeat, catchy pop tempo and ISSA’s clear, husky vocals, this refreshingly cool track is perfect for a summer drive when you want to keep things breezy, even in the heat.
Why not kick off your playlist with this as the first song to set the mood?
My WayDef Tech
When you think of summer, many people probably think of Def Tech—and when you think of Def Tech, you think of “My Way.” Def Tech is a unique duo made up of Micro from Tokyo and Shen from Hawaii.
Their rhythms evoke a breezy summer ocean and their smooth vocals never get old, no matter how many times you listen.
Be sure to put it on repeat as a track to hype up your summer drive.