The ultimate Japan road trip playlist (Reels and TikTok sound suggestions)
Get ready for the ultimate soundtrack to your Japan road trip with this hand-curated playlist of J-Pop, J-Rock, Ska, and hip hop hits. From RADWIMPS‘ “Zenzenzense” to King Gnu‘s “Hakujitsu,” each song on this Japan road trip playlist is a perfect fit for cruising through the scenic cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo.
Not only will these tunes keep you pumped up and energized throughout your journey, but they also make great background music for your Instagram reels and TikTok videos, perfectly capturing the mood and vibe of your Japanese adventure.
So whether you’re exploring ancient temples, trying delicious local foods, or just enjoying the stunning landscapes, this Japan road trip playlist has got you covered. Get ready to hit the road and make memories that will last a lifetime!
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The ultimate Japan road trip playlist
Looking to embark on a road trip through the cultural heartland of Japan? Look no further than this hand-picked playlist of J-Pop, J-Rock, Ska, and hip-hop tunes that are sure to keep you energized and entertained on your journey through Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo.
From classic hits like Utada Hikaru’s “Simple and Clean” to contemporary favorites like Rina Sawayama’s “XS,” this playlist has something for everyone. And for even more Japan-themed fun, check out our articles on Japan captions for Instagram (Puns, Quotes & Short Captions) and what to wear in Japan to make your social media posts just as memorable as your road trip.
- RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (J-Pop/Rock)
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra – Pride of Lions (Ska)
- Asian Kung-Fu Generation – Haruka Kanata (J-Rock)
- Utada Hikaru – Simple and Clean (J-Pop)
- Yui – Rolling Star (J-Rock)
- Spitz – Cherry (J-Pop/Rock)
- BUMP OF CHICKEN – Hello,world! (J-Rock)
- Yorushika – Say it (Indie Rock)
- KANA-BOON – Silhouette (J-Rock)
- AK69 – Flying B (Hip Hop)
- Gen Hoshino – Koi (J-Pop)
- Hoshino Gen – Pop Virus (J-Pop)
- Gesu no Kiwami Otome – Ryouseibai (J-Rock)
- RADWIMPS – Nandemonaiya (J-Pop/Rock)
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra – Skaravan (Ska)
- Sakanaction – Shin Takarajima (J-Rock)
- ONE OK ROCK – Clock Strikes (J-Rock)
- The Pillows – Ride on Shooting Star (J-Rock)
- Rina Sawayama – XS (Pop)
- King Gnu – Hakujitsu (J-Rock)
The Story behind this Japan road trip playlist
As a country known for its unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, Japan is a fascinating destination for travelers from all over the world. And what better way to explore this diverse and exciting country than on a road trip through its most iconic cities?
To make your journey even more memorable, we’ve put together a playlist of some of the best J-Pop, J-Rock, Ska, and hip hop tunes that are sure to keep you pumped up and energized throughout your trip. From classic hits to contemporary favorites, each song has been carefully selected to capture the essence of Japan and create the perfect soundtrack for your adventure.
RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (J-Pop/Rock)
“Zenzenzense” is a popular song by Japanese rock band RADWIMPS, and is the theme song for the 2016 anime film “Your Name”. The film is set in Tokyo and rural Japan, so it’s a fitting song for a road trip through those areas. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a perfect tune for driving and exploring Japan.
Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra – Pride of Lions (Ska)
“Pride of Lions” is a track from Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra’s 2017 album “Glory to the Filmmaker”. The band’s signature sound combines ska, jazz, and rock music to create a unique, upbeat style. This song’s energetic horns and driving rhythm evoke feelings of adventure and excitement, making it a perfect addition to a road trip playlist.
Asian Kung-Fu Generation – Haruka Kanata (J-Rock)
“Haruka Kanata” is a popular song by Japanese rock band Asian Kung-Fu Generation, and was used as the opening theme song for the anime series “Naruto”. The song’s lyrics talk about moving forward and reaching for the future, which is fitting for a road trip through Japan. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs make it a great driving song.
Utada Hikaru – Simple and Clean (J-Pop)
“Simple and Clean” is a song by Japanese-American singer-songwriter Utada Hikaru, and is the theme song for the video game “Kingdom Hearts”. The song’s dreamy vocals and electronic beats create a relaxing and atmospheric vibe that’s perfect for a road trip through Japan’s scenic countryside.
Yui – Rolling Star (J-Rock)
“Rolling Star” is a popular song by Japanese rock singer Yui, and was used as the fifth opening theme song for the anime series “Bleach”. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a great driving song, and the lyrics talk about chasing your dreams and enjoying life’s journey.
Spitz – Cherry (J-Pop/Rock)
“Cherry” is a classic song by Japanese rock band Spitz, and was released in 1995. The song’s nostalgic lyrics and upbeat melody make it a perfect tune for a road trip through Japan, as it captures the country’s whimsical and carefree spirit.
BUMP OF CHICKEN – Hello,world! (J-Rock)
“Hello,world!” is a popular song by Japanese rock band BUMP OF CHICKEN, and was used as the opening theme song for the anime series “Kekkai Sensen”. The song’s uplifting melody and energetic chorus make it a great driving song, and the lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their individuality and make their mark on the world.
Yorushika – Say it (Indie Rock)
“Say it” is a song by Japanese indie rock duo Yorushika, and was released in 2020. The song’s dreamy vocals and melancholic guitar riffs create a contemplative atmosphere that’s perfect for a long drive through Japan’s scenic countryside.
KANA-BOON – Silhouette (J-Rock)
“Silhouette” is a popular song by Japanese rock band KANA-BOON, and was used as the sixteenth opening theme song for the anime series “Naruto Shippuden”. The song’s catchy melody and energetic guitar riffs make it a great driving song, and the lyrics talk about overcoming obstacles and reaching for your dreams.
AK69 – Flying B (Hip Hop)
“Flying B” is a song by Japanese rapper AK69, and was released in 2018. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a great driving song, and the lyrics talk about taking control of your life and soaring to new heights.
Gen Hoshino – Koi (J-Pop)
“Koi” is a song by Japanese singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, and was released in 2016. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo create a fun and carefree vibe that’s perfect for a road trip through Japan, as it celebrates the joy of falling in love and exploring new experiences.
Hoshino Gen – Pop Virus (J-Pop)
“Pop Virus” is the title track of Japanese singer-songwriter Hoshino Gen’s 2018 album. The song’s upbeat tempo and funky beats create a fun and energetic vibe that’s perfect for a road trip through Japan, as it encourages listeners to let loose and have fun.
Gesu no Kiwami Otome – Ryouseibai (J-Rock)
“Ryouseibai” is a song by Japanese rock band Gesu no Kiwami Otome, and was released in 2013. The song’s complex and dynamic arrangement showcases the band’s musical prowess, making it a perfect tune for a road trip through Japan’s vibrant music scene.
RADWIMPS – Nandemonaiya (J-Pop/Rock)
“Nandemonaiya” is a song by Japanese rock band RADWIMPS, and was featured in the popular anime movie “Your Name” (Kimi no Na wa) in 2016. The song’s emotional lyrics and soaring chorus make it a perfect tune for a road trip through Japan, as it captures the beauty and complexity of human relationships.
Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra – Skaravan (Ska)
“Skaravan” is a classic ska tune by Japanese band Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, and was released in 1993. The song’s lively horns and upbeat tempo create a fun and energetic vibe that’s perfect for a road trip through Japan, as it celebrates the country’s love for music and dance.
Sakanaction – Shin Takarajima (J-Rock)
“Shin Takarajima” is a song by Japanese electronic rock band Sakanaction, and was released in 2014. The song’s dreamy vocals and atmospheric synth sounds create a calming and introspective mood that’s perfect for a long drive through Japan’s scenic countryside.
ONE OK ROCK – Clock Strikes (J-Rock)
“Clock Strikes” is a song by Japanese rock band ONE OK ROCK, and was released in 2013. The song’s powerful vocals and driving guitar riffs make it a perfect tune for a road trip through Japan, as it captures the country’s love for rock music and live performances.
The Pillows – Ride on Shooting Star (J-Rock)
“Ride on Shooting Star” is a song by Japanese rock band The Pillows, and was featured in the popular anime series “FLCL” in 2000. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo create a fun and carefree vibe that’s perfect for a road trip through Japan, as it celebrates the thrill of adventure and new experiences.
Rina Sawayama – XS (Pop)
“XS” is a song by Japanese-British singer Rina Sawayama, and was released in 2020. The song’s catchy beats and powerful vocals create a fierce and empowering mood that’s perfect for a road trip through Japan, as it encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and stand up for what they believe in.
King Gnu – Hakujitsu (J-Rock)
“Hakujitsu” is a song by Japanese rock band King Gnu, and was released in 2019. The song’s emotional lyrics and dramatic arrangement make it a perfect tune for a road trip through Japan, as it captures the intensity and complexity of human emotions. The song’s title translates to “white day,” which is a Japanese holiday that’s often associated with love and romance, further highlighting its emotional themes. The soaring vocals and powerful guitar riffs also make it a great tune to blast on the highway as you cruise through Japan’s stunning landscapes.
