Youthful songs to listen to in summer. Classic summer hits and recommended popular tracks.

Youth is eternalShōnan no Kaze feat. Atarashii Gakkō no Leaders

Seishun Towa (TV Size Edit)

A collaboration that transcends generations and genres has produced the most powerful cheer song! This work, a team-up between Shonan no Kaze and ATARASHII GAKKO!, will be released in July 2025 and has been chosen as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime Grand Blue.

The lyrics—saying that youth is all about moving forward because “the present is always in season”—give you a strong push from behind.

As you listen, your heart starts to blaze more and more.

Perfect for when you want to take on something new or make the best memories with your friends!

Summer of UniformsMayo Okamoto

Summer of Uniforms

It’s a fresh, bittersweet song by Mayo Okamoto that unfolds scenes of youth before your eyes—summer sunshine and the sea glimpsed from the window of a swaying train.

It delivers the thrill we felt rushing around in our school uniforms, carried by a crisp acoustic sound.

The quickening heartbeat for the person who just happened to sit beside you, the wordless, frustrating feelings—don’t they overlap with the precious memories everyone keeps tucked away inside? When you want to linger in the shining memories of your school days, why not gently open the album of your heart with this song?

Midsummer FireworksLIL LEAGUE

LIL LEAGUE “Midsummer Fireworks” Music Video

A gem of a love song that likens a once-in-a-lifetime summer romance to the fleeting brilliance of fireworks painting the night sky.

Released in July 2025 as the fifth single, it was selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Wednesday Platinum Night.” Layering vocals over a dance track with traditional Japanese flair, it portrays a heartrending love.

Just reading the lyrics conjures up the relationship between the two and really tugs at the heartstrings.

Hearing this song will surely bring back the bittersweet memories of summer.

In the Blueikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari “In the Blue” (Mitsuya Cider theme song) Music Video

A refreshingly cool, exhilarating uptempo tune.

It portrays a coming-of-age story of young people who, while cherishing encounters and bonds with friends, discover their true selves—conveying an authentic, down-to-earth message characteristic of Ikimono-gakari.

Starting in March 2024, the song was also used in commercials as the theme for Asahi Soft Drinks’ 140th anniversary of Mitsuya Cider, and it was released as a double A-side single together with Harebare!, the opening theme for the TV anime Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin.

It’s the perfect track for karaoke with friends under the summer sky or for a refreshing change of mood.

Hi-FiveME:I

ME:I (Mei) ⊹ “Hi-Five” Official MV

This song is the perfect way to amp up summer vacation with friends.

It’s the title track of ME:I’s single “Hi-Five,” released in August 2024, and its theme is the sparkle and exhilaration of spending summer with your crew.

Packed with the refreshing vibe of lemonade sipped under the sun and the joy that makes every day shine just by being together, it’s a track full of feel-good energy.

The song has gained popularity for its upbeat sound, debuting at No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Put it on as your summer vacation BGM, and it’s sure to elevate the fun.

Marigoldaimyon

Marigold

This song captivates with a refreshing yet wistful feel that pairs perfectly with summer memories.

Released by Aimyon in August 2018, it became the first track by a Japanese artist to surpass 100 million streams the following year, making it a favorite across generations.

Its melody, which conjures vivid summer scenes, may stir a gentle sense of nostalgia.

Depicting summertime moments spent with someone special, it’s the kind of music that even elementary school children can enjoy and feel at ease with.

It’s perfect for summer outings or dusk—be sure to give it a listen!

FlowerKinKi Kids

KinKi Kids “Flower” Music Video

This million-selling song by KinKi Kids was used as the theme for ANA’s Okinawa campaign commercial.

Its straightforward message is compelling: life isn’t only about hardship; if we join forces, beautiful flowers are sure to bloom.

Released in May 1999, the shamisen heard during the interlude evokes the open, breezy atmosphere of Okinawa, the campaign’s setting.

It’s a warm, encouraging track that gently supports those who are taking on a challenge but feeling a bit worn out, giving them a nudge to try again.

It’s also perfect for a drive with friends!