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] (131–140)
fireworksaiko
This song by singer-songwriter aiko vividly expresses a range of emotions tied to fireworks.
Its popularity is evident from its many tie-ins, such as commercial jingles and variety show theme songs—truly a summer classic.
The lyrics juxtapose the singer’s feelings of love with fireworks, conveying both a sense of wistfulness and the swelling of emotion.
The lively sound of acoustic guitar and piano is striking, blending elements of R&B and soul, and it also evokes a sense of emotional instability.
It’s a track that gently lifts your spirits as summer approaches.
Summer Colorsyuzu
For those who want to amp up their drive with a summer classic everyone knows, “Natsu-iro” is highly recommended.
Released in 1998 by the folk duo Yuzu, who have many signature hits, it’s also known as one of their hallmark songs.
It’s a summer tune featuring lively acoustic guitar tones.
The fresh, bittersweet lyrics depicting young love evoke vivid summertime scenes.
Turn up their youthful vocals and energize your car ride! Be sure to check out this track that perfectly matches the exhilarating vibes of summer.
Summer MemoriesKetsumeishi
It’s a song by Ketsumeishi that, as the title suggests, portrays memories of summer.
The track unfolds with a gentle mood, and the guitar tones—ringing out to emphasize freshness—convey a bright, summery atmosphere.
Even though the rap is wordy, it still feels relaxed in a way that lets the lyrics sink in, and you can sense how rich those summer memories are.
The song vividly depicts piling into a car and heading for the beach, savoring both the journey and the interactions at the destination, making it a track that can boost the fun even more when you listen to it on a drive.
Summer Speed feat. OkiishiNatsunose
Composer Natsunose, who has been drawing attention for pieces that capture beautiful scenes and nostalgic emotions.
Featuring vocalist Okiishi, “Natsusoku feat.
Okiishi” pulls you into its world from the opening, which begins with a striking piano sound.
Riding on a brisk, fast-paced beat, the melody creates a clear, weightless feeling that seems perfect for a summer drive.
With an ensemble full of wide interval leaps, it’s irresistibly catchy—a pop tune you won’t forget after a single listen.
Summer Love Sensationmakaroni enpitsu
A refreshing summer song by Macaroni Empitsu that portrays midsummer scenes and romance.
The lyrics are memorable, filled with summer hallmarks like a fireworks date with a lover in a yukata and the sound of cicadas.
Released in August 2017, this track was the band’s first single.
In the music video, all the members wear yukatas and take on summer-themed challenges set on a beach in Chiba.
Evoking the bittersweet feeling of summer’s end and the glow of youth, this piece is perfect as a driving soundtrack.
Paired with views of the sea and mountains from the car window, it will vividly paint summer memories in the listener’s heart.
Only for you, clear skiesYorushika
Yorushika is a rock duo that has gained popularity with songs featuring literary lyrics and a clear, translucent vocal tone over a rock sound.
Their track “Just a Sunny Day for You,” included on their second mini-album Don’t Need an Encore for Losers, is a major hit whose music video on YouTube and streams on music services have each surpassed 100 million plays.
The contrast between the airy melody and the catchy guitar riff creates a comfort that makes you want to keep listening.
It’s a pop tune perfect for livening up a summer drive—one you’ll find yourself humming behind the wheel.
PEACHOtsuka Ai
Ai Otsuka’s “PEACH,” with its up-tempo, poppy sound and refreshing vibe, is perfect for livening up a summer drive.
It became a big hit as the theme song for a popular drama.
The sweet-and-sour lyrics that evoke a girlish heart make it ideal for a drive with someone you’d like to become more than friends with.
Why not spend a sweet, fun moment together with this slightly ticklish tune as your soundtrack?