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] (121–130)
Wake Me Up!SPEED
This is a signature song by SPEED that’s fresh and incredibly innocent.
You can feel the bittersweet, not-yet-mature pure feelings of a young girl in the vocals.
Chosen for a soft drink commercial, this refreshing track is perfect for a midsummer drive with the wind in your face! Even under piercing sunlight, it’ll keep you in a crisp, invigorated mood behind the wheel.
Baby, I love youTEE
Singer-songwriter TEE, who was moved by the music he encountered while studying abroad and began his musical career, has a memorable second single, “Baby I Love You,” which was selected as the ending theme for the music program COUNT DOWN TV.
Its catchy phrases and passionate lyrics stand out.
The beautiful melody woven with his sweet vocals is sure to color the hot summer vividly.
It’s a song almost everyone has heard at least once, making it a perfect number for everyone to sing along to while driving.
Island SongTHE BOOM
“Shima Uta,” a timeless summer classic whose popularity has never waned.
Its powerful vocals, distinctive lyrics, and sound rooted in the Okinawan scale make it unforgettable after just one listen.
Because it’s widely known and easy to memorize, it’s also beloved as a karaoke staple.
Enjoy a refreshing drive while listening to this track that evokes images of the summer sea.
Messenger from Sunday↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓
It’s one of THE HIGH-LOWS’ signature songs, with a grand, hymn-like, radiant atmosphere that’s a major part of its appeal.
Its popularity is evident from various tie-ins: it was used in Honda’s “Do you have a HONDA?” ad campaign, served as the theme song for the film Zebraman, and has been featured as background music in travel programs.
The warm sound incorporating acoustic guitar and piano is also striking, conveying a bright, refreshing sense of hope like a clear summer sky.
The lyrics depict thoughts turning toward distant places, making it a perfect song for setting off on a journey.
BGM for summer drives: A roundup of songs that feel like summer [2026] (131–140)
Ah, summer vacation.TUBE
TUBE is a four-piece rock band that has cemented its unmistakable presence as the very definition of summer in the J-POP scene.
Did you know their 11th single, “A Natsu Yasumi (Ah, Summer Vacation),” was born out of a struggle so intense they were prepared for the possibility of breaking up? True to its title, the sexy lyrics evoke images of a summer vacation, conjuring a timeless scene at the seaside no matter how the era changes.
With its passionate beat and catchy phrases that elevate any drive, it’s an uplifting summer anthem you can’t help but want to hear when the season arrives.
summer festivalWhiteberry
This is a song by the all-girl band Whiteberry that depicts a love story set around a summer festival.
It’s a cover of a JITTERIN’JINN track, and while it pays homage to the original, it also feels like it emphasizes youthful energy and a touch of cuteness.
The overall sound has a strong, exhilarating drive that captures the urge to enjoy summer to the fullest, while the drum beat evokes the image of festival taiko drums.
It portrays the regret of not being able to express one’s feelings at a summer festival, coming across as a look back on a youth lived at full speed.
Its fresh, speedy feel—like racing through youth—makes it a perfect fit for a drive headed toward cherished memories.
SUMMER SONGYUI
If you’re looking for a catchy track that signals the start of summer, “SUMMER SONG” is a great pick.
Singer-songwriter YUI, who writes and composes her own music, released it in 2008.
It features a fresh band sound infused with acoustic guitar tones.
The lyrics evoke summer scenes like the ocean and fireworks, making it perfect for a summer drive.
Her cute yet supple vocals are soothing, too—an ideal summer tune.
Why not give this number a listen to elevate those summer moments with friends or a special someone?
