[2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J-POP for People in Their 20s

hydrangearikon densetsu

Rikon Densetsu – Hydrangea (Official Music Video)

A ballad by the music duo Rikon Densetsu creates that chill atmosphere that makes you want to quietly listen on a rainy day.

Released in April 2025, this song was also chosen as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Memories of Rain.” The lyrics, drawing on the language of hydrangeas, portray the fickleness of the human heart and the earnestness of waiting for something despite it all.

Ayumu Matsuda’s tender yet aching vocals intertwine exquisitely with Jun Beppu’s guitar arrangement, which evokes the sound of rainfall, soothing the listener.

It’s a track that offers gentle encouragement—perfect for a slightly weary night after work or any time you want to relax.

rosehip teaYuika

Rosehip Tea / “Yuika” [Music Video]

Released in September 2025, the song “Rosehip Tea” was written as the opening theme for the TV drama “You’re Special to Me.” It’s a work with a pure, fresh band sound that feels delightful.

The lyrics portray the subtle emotions of a contrary protagonist who pretends to dislike sweet things but finds themselves recognizing their budding feelings—something that may resonate with anyone timid about love.

It’s a sweet-and-tart pop tune that carries those hard-to-express, honest feelings on a breezy melody.

Recipetimelesz

timelesz "Recipe" (YouTube Ver.)

This song, one of the tracks on a double A-side single, was chosen as the theme for the TV Asahi drama “Papa to Oyaji no Uchi Gohan.” It’s a piece that closely aligns with the drama’s worldview, in which member So Matsushima stars and Shuto Inomata appears.

It gently sings about everyday happiness, layering the idea of time spent with someone and mutual support onto the word “recipe.” The music video is set in a kindergarten, capturing the members as teachers interacting with the children, and the warm scenes are truly wonderful.

Please take in their positive message.

My BodyHANA

HANA / My Body -Music Video-

This is a track HANA released in October 2025 as the theme song for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s “BODY MAINTE” commercial.

Following the previous single “BAD LOVE,” member MOMOKA also contributed to the lyrics.

Centered on the powerful message that “your body is your own,” the song boldly celebrates autonomy and self-affirmation, unshaken by others.

The memorable phrase repeated from the intro stirs listeners’ hearts with the resolve to “take care of yourself.” Whenever you feel like you’re losing your sense of self, give this song a listen.

Young & RecklessONE OR EIGHT

ONE OR EIGHT / Young & Reckless (Music Video)

The boy group ONE OR EIGHT, which has been drawing significant attention—such as winning “Upcoming Dance & Vocal Group” at MTV VMAJ 2025—delivers a track defined by edgy electronic textures layered over a nostalgic, ’90s-inspired beat.

Its sound intricately weaves melodies that incorporate Arabic scales with trap-style rap, resulting in a truly cross-genre production.

The lyrics carry a message: don’t be swayed by others’ evaluations; instead, embrace challenges with the pure, childlike spirit you once had.

It’s a fresh pop number where futuristic soundscapes coexist with a sense of nostalgia.

Beaten by the rainLavt

Beaten by the Rain - Rain on Me / Lavt [Lyric Video]

This track captivates with a chill sound that quietly seeps into the heart.

The guitar tones conjure scenes of rain-soaked streets, and the wistful melody is simply soothing.

The song seems to portray a state of mind that, while carrying memories of a love that’s been lost, still tries to slowly look forward.

Even as it stirs a tender ache for the past, there’s a certain healing quality that feels like it will accompany you through the daily grind of working life.

Released in June 2025, it showcases the breadth of expression by Lavt, who was also selected for Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2025” that same year.

Give it a listen on a night when you want to step away from a busy day and calm your mind.

tonightSIRUP

tonight

This track, crafted by SIRUP—known for his urban sound and smooth vocals—is perfect for a nighttime drive.

Built on a slow beat, it features a refined, Yaffle-produced arrangement that creates a soothing atmosphere, beautifully highlighting SIRUP’s voice as it glides between rap and melody.

The lyrics portray someone confronting loneliness and anxiety born from caring deeply about a loved one amid the information-saturated city night, delivering a sincere message about staying true to one’s feelings.

It’s a song from OWARI DIARY, SIRUP’s first album in about four and a half years, released in September 2025, and it gently keeps you company on nights when you want to be alone with your thoughts.