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] (31–40)
blue carsupittsu
A perfect driving song for summer scenes by the sea or on sandy beaches is Aoi Kuruma (Blue Car).
It was released in 1994 by Spitz, a band loved by generations.
The fresh guitar tone in the intro, which hints at the beginning of summer, is especially memorable.
It beautifully captures the feelings of going on a drive date with a lover on a summer day.
Many listeners are surely soothed by Masamune Kusano’s clear, translucent vocals.
With its exhilarating, fast-paced band performance, it’s a song that makes you want to drive endlessly.
Share this rock number that colors your summer memories with someone special.
everything; the whole lot; lock, stock, and barrelKREVA
A healing summer song by KREVA that blends the languid feel of a hot afternoon with a refreshing breeze.
You dream of a resort, yet end up relaxing at home after all.
It conjures up an unpretentious snapshot of summer.
And maybe being with someone special is enough to make you happy, even without anything extraordinary—that’s the kind of love-filled touch KREVA brings to this track.
Released in June 2005, it was also used as a TV show ending theme.
Its comfortable beat and smooth rap make it a perfect number for summer drives or moments of quiet reflection.
A Long, Short FestivalShiina Ringo
It’s a cool dance tune suffused with the sultry heat of a summer night and a fleeting, ephemeral vibe.
The track is a duet featuring Ukigumo, the guitarist from the band Tokyo Jihen, on vocals.
The rhythm incorporates elements of Brazilian music, and the interplay of the two Auto-Tuned voices is irresistibly captivating.
The lyrics portray a man and woman’s cat-and-mouse game set during a festival night, along with a sense of urgency toward a season that slips away in an instant—evoking Shiina Ringo’s distinctly mature worldview to the fullest.
Released in August 2015 as part of a double A-side single, it was used in Coca-Cola’s summer campaign commercial, making it a familiar tune in many households.
It’s a number you’ll want to listen to on a slightly muggy summer night, soaking in a sentimental mood.
Cobalt on a summer afternoonAwesome City Club
Awesome City Club’s music is known for its urban, sophisticated sound, and the harmonies woven by their male–female twin vocals feel perfect for a drive.
This track is a breezy pop tune that beautifully captures the sparkle of summer sunlight and the thrill of a budding romance.
The lyrics depict the protagonist’s strong resolve to find their true self and move forward as they are, along with a message of dreaming of a radiant future powered by past experiences—sure to give listeners courage.
Released in July 2021, it colored the story as the opening theme for the TV drama “She Was Pretty.” It’s also included on the album “Get Set,” where, among the band’s diverse musical range, this song shines with a particularly catchy charm.
It’s a perfect fit not only for summer afternoon drives, but also as background music when you’re ready to take a new step forward.
Summer GhostI Don’t Like Mondays.
With a breezy exhilaration like wind rushing through and an irresistibly buoyant groove that gets your body moving, this track is the perfect pick to color a midsummer drive.
In the lyrics’ world, memories of a fleeting summer romance return vividly, shimmering like a heat haze.
Released by I Don’t Like Mondays.
in July 2023 as part of a series of consecutive digital releases, the song is also included on the album RUNWAY.
It was chosen as the campaign song for the women’s underwear brand sloggi, and its lyric video—shot in Barcelona—also drew attention.
Whether it’s a sun-drenched weekend drive, cruising along the coastline, or an evening ride at dusk, it’s an ideal soundtrack for moments when you want to bask in summer memories.
BGM for summer drives: A roundup of songs that feel like summer [2026] (41–50)
Summer DogTele
Tele is the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, who has drawn attention for his literary world-building.
Released in August 2025, this track blends a refreshing, airy feel that blows away the sweltering summer heat.
The lyrics declare that love is a free force unbound by rules, and listening feels like your heart is being set free.
With its danceable beat, you’ll find your body moving before you know it.
flying fishWANIMA
WANIMA is a rock band from Kumamoto known for energetic live shows and lyrics that hit home.
Released in August 2025, this track pairs the fever of a summer fling with an oriental-tinged sound.
The song vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they devote everything to a fleeting romance—like a flying fish that bursts through the water’s surface even while knowing it can’t stay airborne for long.
Its mature vibe is irresistibly immersive.
Perfect for boosting your summer mood!