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.
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BGM for summer drives: A collection of songs that feel like summer [2026] (21–30)
Atsuatsu Boogie BackSuzuki Suzuki
A heart-thumping summer tune from Suzuki Suzuki, the brother duo with a massive following centered on social media.
Set to a modern beat that captures the euphoria of summer, this exhilarating track lifts your spirits the moment you press play.
Its positive message—enjoy the moment without overthinking—adds color to a liberating drive.
Released in July 2023 and included on the album “SS-POP Ver.
Ao,” it’s perfect for cruising along the coast.
The light, catchy rhythm amps up the excitement!
Live Like SummerSkaai × KM
It’s a track by next-generation rapper Skaai and producer KM that vividly conjures up a seaside drive.
The sound is refreshingly bittersweet, evoking the end of summer in a way that feels just right.
The contrast between KM’s meticulously crafted beat and Skaai’s smooth flow—balancing intellect and playfulness—creates an exquisite groove.
Released first as a single in July 2025, it was later included on the EP “Podium.” The lyrics, which seem to cherish fleeting brilliance while lingering over the passing seasons, may also tie into the duo’s shared love of cars and a sense of speed.
It’s a perfect number not only for weekend drives, but also for nights when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood.
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
It’s a refreshing summer track that evokes both nostalgia and hope for the future.
The lyrics, which capture the fragility and beauty of youth, really hit home when you listen while driving.
Also chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oblivion Battery,” this song—released in April 2024—features Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s signature energetic sound.
Before you head out to make new summer memories, why not add it to your playlist? It will surely stay close to your heart and color an unforgettable page of your summer.
Trace that dreamYOASOBI
YOASOBI is a music duo that made a striking debut with their smash hit “Yoru ni Kakeru,” gaining popularity both in Japan and abroad, especially among younger listeners.
Their second digital-only single, “Ano Yume o Nazotte,” based on the novel The Droplet of a Dream and the Star Flower, later drew attention again when a ballad version was released.
Its liberating melody riding on a driving piano phrase feels perfect for coloring a summer road trip.
The lyrics, which make you want to head somewhere far away, lift your spirits—a refreshing pop tune through and through.
Ocean living roomSuzuki Suzuki
With the uniquely beautiful harmonies only siblings can create, Suzuki Suzuki deliver a perfect song to color the summer of the Reiwa era.
Its fresh, up-tempo melody lifts the listener’s spirits and whisks you away to glittering summertime scenes.
Upon its release in August 2021, the track became a hit, inspiring over 110,000 related videos on TikTok, and it topped the Billboard JAPAN charts for two consecutive weeks in September of the same year.
It’s also included on the album “313.” Ideal for a seaside drive or lively moments with friends, this is a song that’s sure to boost your mood.
Fanfaresumika
A refreshing song that carries a powerful message about breaking through the darkness of night to welcome a new morning.
It’s striking how the protagonist, once shut inside their shell, musters the courage to take a step into the outside world.
Many listeners will likely feel encouraged by the resolve to overcome hardship and trials and meet a new self.
Released in August 2018, the track was used as the opening theme for the anime film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” It’s also included on the album “AMUSIC” and is known as one of sumika’s signature works.
A perfect song to listen to before heading out for warm-weather activities, and recommended for those moments when you need courage to try something new.
StarmineDa-iCE
This song, which captures the exhilaration of a fireworks festival, is the ultimate summer anthem themed around a special summer night for lovers.
The scenes of a fireworks show spent with a partner in a yukata vividly come to mind, and the lyrics depicting a mature summer romance make it a particularly memorable track.
Released in August 2022 as a digital-only single, it became a major sensation with over 600 million views on TikTok.
The YouTube music video became the fastest in Da-iCE’s history to reach 10 million views, and the song was selected for the Excellent Work Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards.
It’s perfect for anyone planning a date at a fireworks festival or looking to soak up the atmosphere of a summer matsuri.