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)
Et cetera related to the seashorePUFFY
One of the signature songs by the female vocal duo PUFFY, it’s a track whose slightly languid atmosphere is part of its charm.
It was created by the team of Yosui Inoue and Tamio Okuda, the same duo behind their classic “Asia no Junshin.” With a bright yet mellow sound, it conjures an image of driving along the coastline with friends, heading toward something fun.
The lyrics, with their light, breezy phrasing that seems to capture the giddy feeling of summer, are also memorable, conveying the spirit of making the most of that limited season.
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.