[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 (111–120)
Youth is eternalShōnan no Kaze feat. Atarashii Gakkō no Leaders
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!
TORICOIwatatakanori
This is a solo work by Takanori Iwata, featuring a pleasing, passionate Latin rhythm.
Released in July 2025, it was chosen as the CM song for JATA’s “More! Overseas” campaign, enhancing the open, carefree mood of summer.
The sound instantly captivates listeners, and the lyrics—framing the push-and-pull of romance—leave a strong impression.
With Iwata’s lustrous vocal performance, it skillfully conveys a mature passion.
It’s perfect not only as BGM for a beachside party, but also for setting the mood on a special night with someone important.
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism
For a drive when you want to sort out your feelings, songs steeped in bittersweet emotion are just right.
“Pretender,” released in 2019 by the rock band Official Hige Dandism, beautifully sings of the transience of love and life.
Chosen as the theme song for the film The Confidence Man JP: Romance, it became a huge hit.
Its arrangement, rich with sound effects, and its catchy band sound are especially striking.
Listen to it while driving alone, and it will likely bring back memories of bittersweet romances.
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA
You can’t go on a drive with close friends without songs that boost the mood! LiSA’s 2019 release “Gurenge” is a rock number that heats up the atmosphere in the car.
It was featured as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and became a hot topic.
The track delivers a powerful, energetic band sound, and her vocals—full of strength and warmth—leave a strong impression.
With its exhilarating sense of speed, this song is a must for drives with friends who love anime music!
Kiss the windGLIM SPANKY
A captivating sound born from the fusion of roots music and rock.
Released digitally by GLIM SPANKY in July 2024, this track is a rock tune that paints scenes of feeling a pleasant breeze on a summer holiday or during a drive.
Remi Matsuo’s powerful vocals and Hiroki Kamemoto’s distinctive guitar work leave a strong impression, creating a free and liberating atmosphere.
It’s also featured in the commercial for Suzuki’s Solio Bandit, making it perfect for those seeking a fresh, seasonal vibe.
Marking the 10th anniversary of their major-label debut, this milestone release is an ideal companion for summer drives!
Mela!Ryokushokushakai
Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a pop-rock band known for their colorful, catchy sound.
Their track “Mela!” from the 2020 release SINGALONG is a rock number that amps up any weekend drive.
You might know it from the dance videos that went viral on TikTok.
The members’ technical performances and the bright tones of the brass band resonate beautifully, with soundscapes that evoke jazz and classical influences.
It’s classic pop at its core, making it perfect BGM for road trips across all age groups.
HANABIMr.Children
On the way home from a fun outing or trip, you often feel like listening to something emotional, don’t you? For those moments, I recommend HANABI.
Released in 2008 by the beloved rock band Mr.Children, it was used as the theme song for the drama series Code Blue: Doctor Heli Emergency Lifesaving.
It’s a dramatic number built on a beautiful melodic line.
Kazutoshi Sakurai’s vocals have a power that stirs human emotions.
Listening to this song will make you feel like you can keep trying without giving up on anything.
It’s also a great pick for solo drives when you want a change of pace.