[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)
Let’s meet on the far side of the moon.Tōhōshinki
On the milestone of their 20th anniversary since debuting in Japan, TVXQ have released a cover that revives a classic city pop masterpiece originally released in 1991.
While cherishing the original’s urbane, romantic atmosphere, this work adds a glamorous band sound and the duo’s refreshing harmonies to create a new allure.
Set against the backdrop of the night city, the lyrics—wishing for a reunion with “you”—can also be heard as their message to move forward toward a new future together with their fans.
It feels perfect for a nighttime drive with someone special.
[2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J-POP for People in Their 20s (121–130)
dandeliongo!go!vanillas
The comfortable rhythm that evokes the essence of ’80s disco meshes perfectly with the world of the TV anime SAKAMOTO DAYS.
It’s a track by go!go!vanillas, set for release in July 2025, written specifically as the ending theme for SAKAMOTO DAYS Cour 2.
The song explores “the quiet peace of returning home after battle—and its price.” The protagonist’s emotions, swaying between a calm everyday life and the extraordinary that lurks behind it, are delicately expressed over a weightless, floating sound.
It’s perfect for relaxing at the end of the day or for moments when you want a song to accompany a slightly bittersweet mood.
Mad HopeHoshino Gen
This song was written as the theme for the Netflix talk show “LIGHTHOUSE: Two Troubled Souls, Six Months of Conversation.” It’s included on the album “Gen,” released in May 2025, and drew major attention when its music video—directed by web writer ARuFa—was released in July.
The track is characterized by a thrilling sound that seems to distill seemingly reckless hope straight into music.
It’s the kind of song that can make you feel your mental boundaries falling away.
Perfect when you want creative stimulation or need a change of pace!
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.
InstallICEx
A track that grabs your heart as it flips from a cool rap part to an explosive mix of cuteness and swagger in the chorus! This is a single ICEx released in July 2025.
The work’s charm lies in its original story: a robot installing warm human emotions through errors.
The structure shifts from a mechanical vibe in the first verse to a burst of human expressiveness in the chorus, showcasing the breadth of their artistry.
Perfect for anyone craving the thrill of watching a sci-fi movie.
Over The Horizon!naniwa danshi
This is a song by Naniwa Danshi that heralds the start of a new adventure with a refreshing sound.
Included on the album “BON BON VOYAGE,” released in July 2025, the track brilliantly embodies the concept of “journeys and adventures.” It captures the exhilaration of stepping beyond the horizon with your friends and conveys a powerful hope that you can overcome any hardship—listening to it leaves you feeling uplifted.
When you dive into the unknown, this song gives you strength!
Revival of the Four SeasonsAKASAKI
This is a song by AKASAKI, written specifically as a commercial jingle for the smartphone game Monster Strike.
Released in July 2025, the track is a coming-of-age anthem that pairs the changing of the seasons with the renewal of the heart, giving listeners a gentle push forward.
The breezy sound arrangement, AKASAKI’s tender vocals, and the lyrics that reflect on the passage of time work together beautifully.
It’s a song that quietly stays by your side when you’re stepping into a new environment or feeling a little low.