[2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J-POP for People in Their 20s
Whether you’re driving with friends, on a romantic trip for two, with family, or even solo, going for a drive is always a lot of fun, isn’t it?
Some of you in your twenties may have just gotten your long-awaited driver’s license and are now picking out BGM for your first drive—whether you’re a student or already working.
In this article, we introduce popular Japanese songs—J-POP—that are especially recommended for drives, with a focus on listeners in their twenties.
Centered on recent and current hits across various genres, this lineup will hype up your drive and add a stylish touch.
Feel free to use it as a reference!
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[2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J‑Pop for People in Their 20s (81–90)
NINE LIVESchōtokkyū
Super Express is a music unit composed of male members from Stardust Promotion.
Their 22nd single, released in September 2025, is titled “NINE LIVES.” By evoking the proverb “A cat has nine lives” and their image as a nine-member group, the song expresses an indomitable spirit that overcomes any hardship.
Its cool, groovy beat makes you want to move your body just by listening.
It’s a dance tune brimming with their signature charm that never forgets a sense of humor.
ATAMINumber_i
The track “ATAMI,” produced by member Yuta Jinguji, is a laid-back number that fuses jazz and rap.
Its mellow ensemble of piano and brass evokes a nighttime scene and draws you deep into its world.
The lyrics, which frame personal ambition and youthful memories in shades of “blue,” are especially striking.
Featured on the album “No.
II,” set for release in September 2025, it also drew attention when a live-band performance video was released in advance.
A sophisticated pop tune with depth.
I like the me who likes you.Sakurai Yui
Yui Sakurai, who is also active in the idol group FRUITS ZIPPER.
Her solo debut track, released digitally in September 2025, is a delightful piece with a light, breezy electropop sound.
The lyrics depict a cycle of self-affirmation: falling for someone, having them return your feelings, and in turn learning to love yourself even more—warming the hearts of listeners along the way.
First unveiled at a fashion event in September 2025, this song is a perfect anthem for those moments when you want to feel optimistic.
GroundsGENERATIONS × Da-iCE
GENERATIONS, who electrify audiences on massive stages, and Da-iCE, who have steadily earned acclaim with their twin-vocal prowess.
Their first collaborative track, released in September 2025, is a number that likens the paths they’ve walked to a “foundation,” singing their resolve for the future.
Affirming the efforts they’ve made so far, its powerful message toward the next challenge is sure to give a push to anyone striving toward a goal.
With weighty harmonies that stir the heart, it’s a dance tune that raises a signal flare for a new era.
KUROMI♡ProfileKUROMI
Since her debut in 2005, Sanrio’s character KUROMI has continued to captivate fans around the world.
This track, included on her debut EP “KUROMI IN MY HEAD” releasing in October 2025, has also drawn attention for being written by Satomi Shigemori.
It strikingly contrasts powerful rap over a heavy sound with a pop melody you can’t help but hum along to.
From her cool side to her girly charm, it showcases KUROMI’s many facets like a profile book.
A new-era pop tune packed with irresistible cuteness.
Ur ZoneNumber_i
This is a Number_i track released in September 2025 as an advance single from their second full album, “No.Ⅱ.” Its low-center-of-gravity, club-oriented beat and intensely evolving rap create a one-of-a-kind soundscape.
The lyrics, which portray a strong resolve to carve out a new realm of their own without flinching at outside evaluations, are likely to resonate with many.
It’s an aggressive, floor-shaking dance tune with a strikingly hard-hitting track.
[2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J-POP for People in Their 20s (91–100)
Shanghai Love StorySebunsu Bega
Seventh Vega is a four-piece city rock band gaining attention for their refined, urban sound.
Shanghai Love Story was released in September 2025 ahead of their first album PRINCESS, which followed in October.
Set against the glittering nights of Shanghai, it portrays the push and pull of a romance between a man and a woman.
The lyrics blend Japanese, English, and Chinese, conveying both exhilaration and the emptiness of hearts passing by each other.
Centered on a floating, airy guitar riff, the ensemble mirrors the protagonist’s wavering emotions.
It’s a bittersweet yet beautiful track—perfect for moments of quiet reflection.