[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 (31–40)
Cold NightHANA
HANA’s “Cold Night” lets you feel a fierce strength—keeping an inner flame burning even while being battered by the cold night wind.
It’s a message song packed with resolve: even while carrying anxieties and loneliness that keep you from fully believing in yourself, you still take a step toward your dream.
Released as a single in January 2026, the track was chosen as the opening theme for season 2 of the TV anime Medalist, which depicts the world of figure skating.
Give it a listen on nights when you wish to change your reality or when you need to rally yourself.
Night DriveSTUTS, Julia Wu, Phum Viphurit
This is an urban track crafted by trackmaker STUTS, featuring Taiwan’s Julia Wu and Thailand’s Phum Viphurit.
The English lyrics and smooth groove create a floating sensation like driving through the city at night, with the trio’s distinct personalities blending together naturally.
It’s a song that makes you want to listen while gazing at a glittering skyline, with the refined sensibilities honed on albums like Pushin’ really shining through.
Girl is GhostSCANDAL
Formed in Kyobashi, Osaka in 2006, SCANDAL was recognized by Guinness World Records in August 2023 as the longest-running all-female rock band with the same members.
Released digitally in January 2026, this track is a rock tune that reflects the ever-evolving story of the band.
It connects the “ghost” imagery in the title with nighttime exhilaration and the impulse for self-renewal, elevating it into a thrilling, danceable sound.
It will resonate with anyone who wants to break through their current situation.
The Zero Sense10-FEET
The song, released as a digital single in November 2022, is also included on 10-FEET’s ninth album, Collins, their first in about five years.
Specially produced as the ending theme for the film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, it captured many hearts with its striking melody and rhythm.
It also gained traction on TikTok, and in 2023 its appeal was widely recognized when it won Best Rock Video at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan.
It’s a perfect track for a drive in your twenties, and its lyrics—centered on the themes of pursuing dreams and self-actualization—carry a message that resonates with young people.
idolYOASOBI
YOASOBI’s work is a song that vividly portrays the light and shadow of modern idols.
The protagonist’s emotions—combining strength and fragility—intertwine with a sharp-edged sound that leaves a deep impression on listeners.
Released in April 2023, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oshi no Ko.” While grounded in hip-hop elements, it’s characterized by a pop finish with a gothic rock flair.
Put it on while driving and you’ll feel a refreshing sense of cutting through the bustle of the city.
It’s a perfect track for people in their twenties who are exploring their own identity.
[2026] Recommended Japanese Songs for Driving: Popular J-POP for People in Their 20s (41–50)
Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya
It’s a song marked by messages that gently reach the heart.
Tatsuya Kitani’s delicate vocals and poetic lyrics beautifully capture the bittersweetness and transience of youth.
Released in July 2023, it was chosen as the opening theme for the second season of the popular anime Jujutsu Kaisen.
Listening to it while driving may bring back memories of days gone by, giving you a sense of nostalgia and the courage to look ahead.
It might also be nice to listen with a friend or partner and reminisce about your youth together.
I especially hope people in their twenties can feel the song’s deep appeal.
Galactic ExpresswayHanbureddāzu
Hambrettes are a four-piece rock band from Osaka, formed under the impact of watching the TV anime K-On!.
Their digital-only single Ginga Kousoku, released on June 12, 2019, was used in 2023 for ABEMA Fighting TIMES’ ONE Friday Fights.
The lyrics, said to have been written while reflecting on the band’s journey up to that point, evoke a sense of a major farewell and firm resolve.
It’s a rock tune whose driving sound links with the scenery of the expressway—refreshing yet tinged with melancholy.
