[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 (141–150)
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!
familieMrs. GREEN APPLE
It’s a refreshing number that warmly portrays the bonds between family and loved ones.
With a powerful beat and catchy melody, it resonates pleasantly and delivers a pop sound that’s quintessentially Mrs.
GREEN APPLE.
Released as a digital single in August 2024, the track was featured in the commercial for Honda’s new FREED.
As the culmination of five consecutive monthly releases, it showcases the band’s musical ambition.
The lyrics about life’s journey, growth, and the importance of family are sure to strike a chord.
It’s a song that fits into everyday life and offers comfort—perfect to accompany you on a drive.
rainbowFukuyama Masaharu
When the weather forecast calls for sunny skies, it makes you want to hit the road, doesn’t it? That’s when I want you to listen to “Niji” (Rainbow).
Singer-songwriter Masaharu Fukuyama released it in 2003, and it was used as the theme song for the drama WATER BOYS.
Its refreshing sound strikes a chord, bringing back memories of youthful days devoted to clubs and studying.
The melody, built on a simple instrumental arrangement, is part of its charm.
It’s also known as the first song he arranged himself.
Try listening to it when you’re heading back to your hometown or on your way to meet an old friend.
[2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J-POP for People in Their 20s (151–160)
Drifting with the wavesAKASAKI
Now that we’re well past the midpoint of the 2020s, talented teenage singer-songwriters are releasing their music online and drawing major attention—and AKASAKI is truly one of the leading figures among them.
Her 2024 track “Bunny Girl” went viral, and its animated music video had surpassed 55 million views as of April 2025.
Released in July 2024, her song “Nami Makase / Drifting” is a groovy, stylish city-pop-tinged tune that’s perfect for summer.
It’s astonishing to hear such a mature vibe from someone in their teens, and if you want to revel in the sleek feel of a polished 16-beat, be sure to give it a listen.
808Suchmos
This is a captivating disco-funk style track full of urban sounds.
Its groovy, danceable rhythm grabs listeners and won’t let go.
The lyrics skillfully weave in satire and social commentary, sounding an alarm about the information overload of modern times.
Released by Suchmos in February 2018, it was featured in Honda’s VEZEL commercial.
The comfortable beat driven by the synthesizer bass and the fusion with jazzy sounds make it a song that will soothe you in a city café.
It’s perfect for relaxing at home or creating a stylish atmosphere—be sure to give it a listen.
Dressing Roomnatori
Natori, who released the smash hit Overdose at the young age of 19, quickly rose to prominence as a young singer-songwriter born in 2003.
Beyond creating his own music, he’s also written songs for artists like Ado and Hoshimachi Suisei—proof of his exceptional songwriting prowess.
While Natori releases music that defies genre boundaries, his track DRESSING ROOM, released in February 2025, is a killer tune distinguished by a sleek, danceable production.
Its 16-beat groove brings a stylish flair to the floor, and Natori’s sultry vocals sound undeniably cool.
bergamotTomonari Sora
The music of Sora Tomonari, a highly regarded singer-songwriter born in 2002, showcases a superb sense for sophisticated, genre-defying songwriting and sound design.
Released in March 2025, Bergamot blends rap-inflected vocals with a stylish, contemporary city-pop track driven by a groovy bassline, letting you fully savor a cool, compelling 16-beat feel.
It’s also a track that those studying track-making will surely find informative, so be sure to check it out.