Yo, what’s the move? It’s Yuki, your go-to planner for all things Japan, and today we’re ditching the packed trains and tourist traps. We’re about to unlock a whole new level of chill, a vibe so smooth it feels like a dream. Picture this: you’re on a bike, sun warming your face, a gentle sea breeze messing up your hair in the best way possible. You’re cruising down a sparkling Japanese coastline, with nothing but the blue ocean on one side and epic green hills on the other. What’s missing? The soundtrack. And not just any soundtrack. We’re talking about the one and only, the undisputed champion of summer vibes: City Pop. This isn’t just about putting on some tunes; it’s about time-traveling to Japan’s 80s bubble era, a time of insane optimism, slick aesthetics, and music so groovy it physically hurts. It’s the sound of sunset drives in a convertible, cocktails on a rooftop bar, and endless summer love. And trust me, when you pair this music with a coastal cycling trip, it’s a legit cheat code for happiness. You’ll feel like you’ve pedaled straight into an anime opening sequence, no cap. It’s a full-body sensory experience that’ll stick with you forever. So, get ready to plug in, press play, and pedal your way into the heart of the Japanese summer dream. We’re about to build the perfect playlist for a day you won’t forget.
For more cycling adventures that feel straight out of an anime, check out our guide to tackling the Yowamushi Pedal Inter-High course in real life.
What’s the Deal with City Pop? The Vibe Check
Alright, before we drop the needle, let’s make sure we’re on the same page. What exactly is City Pop? Seriously, it’s more than just a genre; it’s a full-blown aesthetic, a snapshot of a very specific moment in Japanese history. We’re talking late 70s to late 80s, when Japan’s economy was booming like never before. There was this huge wave of optimism and prosperity, and the culture really reflected that. People had money to spend and were eagerly soaking up international trends. This set the stage perfectly for a new sound to take shape.
Musically, City Pop is an adventurous blend. It combined the smoothest elements of American soft rock and AOR (Adult-Oriented Rock), the infectious grooves of funk and soul, the danceable energy of disco, plus hints of tropical, jazzy, and fusion influences, all filtered through a distinctly Japanese perspective. The production quality was top-tier—crisp drums, basslines so groovy they feel illegal, sparkling Fender Rhodes pianos, shimmering synths, and often a full brass section. The vocals are typically smooth, melodic, and effortlessly cool.
But the true magic of City Pop lies in the feeling it creates. It’s pure escapism. The lyrics often explore urban life—romance in the city, late-night drives, lonely moments in high-rise apartments—yet these themes are set against an airy, almost utopian musical backdrop. It’s a sound that’s both sophisticated and irresistibly catchy. It’s nostalgic, but not for the past. Rather, it’s nostalgia for a future imagined in the 80s—a future of sleek technology, endless leisure, and effortless style. Listening to City Pop makes you feel like the main character in a movie. It’s the soundtrack for cruising in a white convertible along the coast, even if you’re just riding a rented bike. It’s the music playing in a trendy seaside café as the sun goes down. It’s the mood of a perfect summer day you wish would never end.
When you hear names like Tatsuro Yamashita, often called the “King of City Pop,” you’re hearing the mastermind behind the sound. His arrangements are rich and layered, with an almost orchestral vibe. Then there’s his wife, Mariya Takeuchi, whose velvety voice and songs like the iconic “Plastic Love” have become global anthems for the genre. Anri is the queen of the summer bop; her music embodies pure sunshine and sea breeze. Toshiki Kadomatsu introduced a harder, funkier edge, crafting tracks that boost your energy instantly. These pioneers, along with many others, weren’t just making pop music—they were creating entire worlds through their sound. And that world is the perfect place to spend a day on two wheels.
Building Your Playlist: The Core Tracks
Alright, it’s time for the main event. Crafting a City Pop playlist requires careful curation. It’s a journey that needs a beginning, a middle, and an end reflecting the arc of your day—from the bright morning sun to the cool, neon-lit evening. Here are the essential, non-negotiable tracks for your seaside cycling adventure.
Morning Glory: Starting the Ride
The sun is shining, your bike is ready, and the whole day stretches ahead. You need songs that embody pure, unfiltered optimism—upbeat, breezy, and energizing to get you moving.
Tatsuro Yamashita – “Ride on Time” (1980)
No City Pop journey can begin without the king himself. And “Ride on Time” serves as the ultimate opener. This track isn’t just recommended; it’s essential. From the iconic vocal harmonies that kick off the song, it delivers a burst of pure adrenaline. The driving, insistent beat sets the perfect pedal pace. The bassline pulses with life, propelling you forward. Then comes the soaring chorus—Tatsuro’s voice rising above a rich wall of sound, complete with a stunning brass section. The lyrics celebrate seizing the moment, like a blue love-jet streaking across a sapphire sky. It’s hopeful poetry. As you push off with the wind in your face, this song makes you feel unstoppable. It transforms a bike ride into the opening scene of an epic adventure. You’re not just cycling; you’re literally riding on time. It’s powerful, majestic, and will make you feel like the coolest person on the coast. A perfect 10/10.
Anri – “Last Summer Whisper” (1982)
Once you’re in the groove, it’s time to ease into something a bit more relaxed yet still bright and breezy. Anri is the undisputed queen of summer anthems, and “Last Summer Whisper” is one of her smoothest gems. This track is pure silk, opening with a gentle, shimmering synth and an almost horizontal, laid-back bassline. Anri’s airy vocals float over the melody, evoking a mid-morning sun that’s warm but gentle. Its swaying rhythm perfectly suits a leisurely cruise along a flat, beachside road. You can almost see sunlight sparkling off the water. Though the title hints at nostalgia, the overall mood is one of serene contentment. It’s the kind of song that makes you inhale the salty air deeply and smile. Effortlessly cool, it sets a mellow, happy tone for the day ahead. A definite must-have to ease into your ride.
Miki Matsubara – “Mayonaka no Door / Stay With Me” (1979)
Let’s talk icon status. Even newcomers to City Pop have likely heard this track’s legendary intro online. That opening line, “To you… yes my love… to you,” followed by the irresistibly catchy sax riff—it’s pure serotonin. Though the lyrics are melancholic, telling of a lover begging not to be left, the music itself feels joyful. It’s a masterclass in City Pop production with a sophisticated, jazzy vibe combined with catchy pop sensibility. The rhythm flows perfectly for a steady pedal, cinematic in feel. Listening to this track while riding makes you feel like you’re starring in a beautifully shot film. It adds cool, understated drama to your ride and shows that City Pop can be both fun and emotionally deep. More than a viral hit, it’s a foundational genre masterpiece. Essential listening.
Junko Yagami – “Bay City” (1983)
Time to amp up the pace. Junko Yagami’s powerhouse vocals drive “Bay City,” a funk-infused banger that immediately grabs you with its percussive slap bass. This is the tune for hitting a long, open stretch, ready to open up your speed. Its infectious energy paired with commandingly powerful vocals and an electrifying horn section paints a vivid picture of a lively city by the bay, teeming with excitement. The track bridges your chill morning warm-up to a sun-soaked afternoon ride with swagger and style. It makes you feel like you’re flying down the coast, pedaling harder and nodding to that irresistible groove.
Afternoon Cruise: Soaking Up the Sun
With the sun high and your ride fully underway, it’s time for groovy, iconic tunes that let you lose yourself in the moment. This is City Pop’s prime time, featuring its most legendary hits.
Mariya Takeuchi – “Plastic Love” (1984)
Behold the queen of City Pop. The song that sparked a thousand YouTube recs and introduced the genre worldwide. The hype is real. “Plastic Love” stands as one of the most impeccably crafted pop songs ever. It’s the genre’s pinnacle. Opening with a instantly recognizable beat, a Chic-esque guitar riff, and warm synth pads, it welcomes Mariya’s smooth voice singing of heartbreak and disillusionment amid city nightlife—dancing with strangers to forget a lost love while knowing it’s all just “plastic love.” The genius lies in its melancholic core wrapped within an irresistibly danceable package. Legendary basslines, perfect horn stabs, and blissful ‘80s guitar solos define the sound. For your bike ride, this is the ultimate cruising anthem. Mid-tempo with a groove so deep you can sink right into it. It’s wistful and nostalgic, yet thoroughly cool—the undeniable soul of your playlist.
Yasuha – “Fly-Day Chinatown” (1981)
Following the introspective mood of “Plastic Love,” you need a blast of pure fun. Enter “Fly-Day Chinatown,” a technicolor frenzy of energy and funk from start to finish. The song’s exotic, worldly vibe feels like arriving at a bustling, neon-drenched market. Its frantic bassline, screaming horns, and Yasuha’s playful, attitude-filled vocals make it impossible not to grin and zigzag down the bike path. The chorus is an earworm and the musical equivalent of espresso. When energy flags under the sun and pedals tire, this track revitalizes you with joyful chaos—an absolute high-energy masterpiece for riding forever.
Anri – “Remember Summer Days” (1983)
Let’s mellow out and delve into pure summer nostalgia. Anri returns with this quintessential seasonal anthem. The title says it all. The song feels like a perfect summer day memory. It features a slightly more rock-tinged edge, with strong guitar riffs and driving beats, yet remains soaked in classic City Pop smoothness. The anthemic chorus is perfect for shouting along with friends while riding. It conjures images of shimmering heat, refreshing sea breezes, and bittersweet moments you know won’t last. Filled with gentle, happy melancholy, it’s uplifting and deeply reflective—the perfect soundtrack for gazing at the ocean and savoring both past and present summers.
Tomoko Aran – “Midnight Pretenders” (1983)
As afternoon fades, it’s time for something cooler and more sophisticated. “Midnight Pretenders” masterfully weaves an atmospheric City Pop sound. A slower, slinky groove driven by a hypnotic bassline and a steady, almost trip-hop-inspired drum beat (ahead of its time) underpins Tomoko Aran’s breathy, ethereal vocals. The standout is the incredible saxophone melody that threads throughout—a sultry, melancholic, ultra-cool element. Famously sampled by The Weeknd in “Out of Time,” its timeless allure is undeniable. Perfect for cruising past trendy seaside cafés and surf shops, it makes you feel like the coolest person around, carrying a hint of mystery and romance. An essential late-afternoon mood shifter.
Golden Hour Glory: Sunset Session
The magic hour: the sun dips low, casting the sky in orange, pink, and purple hues. The air cools, and the vibe transitions from upbeat fun to mellow, romantic beauty. This is the time for tracks that elevate the breathtaking scenery.
Mai Yamane – “Tasogare” (1980)
This song is golden hour personified. The title, 黄昏 (Tasogare), means “twilight,” and no track captures that feeling more perfectly. From the opening smooth electric piano notes, the song enfolds you in a warm sound blanket. Mai Yamane’s husky, soulful voice brims with emotion. The relaxed groove beats like a gentle heartbeat. The saxophone doesn’t shout; it sighs—a lament and love letter to the day’s end. As you pause by the roadside to watch the sun sink below the horizon, this is the only track you need. It’s deeply romantic, beautiful, and tinged with a touch of sadness. This music makes the moment feel timeless—a memory unfolding. It’s not just a song; it’s a feeling, a time of day, a color in the sky. Simply perfect.
Taeko Onuki – “4:00 A.M.” (1978)
As twilight deepens, we turn introspective. Taeko Onuki, a revered City Pop singer-songwriter known for her poetic lyricism and musicianship, delivers a mood masterpiece with “4:00 A.M.” The song explores sleepless, lonely city nights, but it feels more like a comforting embrace than a lament. Lush, jazzy instrumentation with a rich string arrangement and a melancholic piano melody supports her clear, plaintive voice. Riding along in fading light, as streetlights begin to flicker on, this track offers a moment of quiet beauty. It’s perfect for reflection, watching the last colors vanish, feeling day gently yield to night. Sophisticated, emotional, and captivating, it adds profound depth and artistry to your playlist.
Anri – “Windy Summer” (1983)
As evening approaches, lift the mood slightly with this classic from Anri, all about the refreshing evening breeze. “Windy Summer” blends funk and disco with a catchy bassline and a beat that gets your feet—or pedals—moving. It perfectly captures the transition as daytime heat fades, replaced by a cool ocean wind. The song sings of freedom and romance, of coastal drives with the windows down. Anri’s vocals burst with energy and joy. It’s an ideal bridge from mellow sunset vibes to the night’s livelier tempo—relaxed but groove-packed. Simply a feel-good track.
Anri – “I Can’t Stop The Loneliness” (1983)
One more from the queen, because she absolutely owns this mood. Also called “Kanashimi ga Tomaranai,” this song exemplifies the classic City Pop blend: bittersweet lyrics with upbeat music. It’s an irresistible, synth-driven dance track with a sing-along chorus, even if you don’t know the words. The lyrics tell a tale of heartbreak upon seeing an ex with someone new, unable to quell the sadness. This contrast is quintessential City Pop—the music makes you want to dance through the tears. Perfect for when the seaside town lights start glowing in the night, it’s energetic, fun, yet emotionally resonant. A certified classic and a fantastic way to keep the vibe alive as evening deepens.
Night Ride: City Lights & Ocean Breeze
The sun has set, but the adventure continues under starry skies and urban glow. Now, you want groovy, neon-infused tracks to soundtrack the coolest, final leg of your journey.
Junko Ohashi – “Telephone Number” (1984)
Time to get soulful. Junko Ohashi’s powerful and soulful voice shines on “Telephone Number,” a smooth, mid-tempo R&B-tinged track dripping with cool. Slick production, a killer bassline, tight drums, and dazzling keyboard work set the stage. The song explores the anticipation and anxiety of waiting for a lover’s call, with Junko’s performance full of passion and yearning. Riding along the dark coast with city lights and passing cars, the song creates a noir-ish, atmospheric mood. It’s perfect for quiet, introspective moments on your night ride—grown-up, sexy, and utterly groovy. An ideal cool-down track.
Takako Mamiya – “Love Trip” (1982)
The ultimate smooth closer. Takako Mamiya’s album of the same name is a City Pop collector’s treasure, and the title track exemplifies why. “Love Trip” is a slow-burning, sultry jam with a deep, relaxed groove, jazzy guitar melodies, and warm, ethereal keyboards. Takako’s breathy, intimate vocals feel like a whispered secret. This is the perfect soundtrack for the final stretch, as you slowly pedal back to your starting point. It evokes the calm, mysterious beauty of the ocean at night. A gentle, reflective close to your amazing day, this track is pure vibe—the perfect final note for your playlist.
The Perfect Stage: Where to Ride
A playlist this legendary calls for an equally legendary backdrop. For the ultimate City Pop cycling adventure, there’s really only one choice: the Shonan Coast. This stretch of shoreline in Kanagawa Prefecture, just south of Tokyo, is the living essence of the City Pop vibe. This is the landscape that inspired the music.
Shonan Coast: The Original City Pop Setting
Imagine this: long sandy beaches dotted with surfers, the iconic island of Enoshima rising from the bay, and the quaint, retro Enoden train line rattling along the coast. At one end, you have the historic charm of Kamakura, at the other, the relaxed beach town atmosphere of Chigasaki, with stunning ocean views all along the way. This is the scenery you see on album covers from the 80s. The air here feels different—salty, laid-back, and bursting with a sunny, youthful energy.
The perfect route is to start in Kamakura and cycle west along National Route 134. This road runs right next to the ocean, offering endless breathtaking views. You’ll pedal past well-known beaches like Yuigahama and Shichirigahama. The ultimate highlight is the area around Kamakurakokomae Station. This spot, featuring an old-fashioned train crossing with the sparkling sea behind it, is famous from the opening scene of the classic anime Slam Dunk, but its vibe embodies pure City Pop. It’s like riding through a real-life movie set.
Along the way, you can stop at numerous beachside cafes for a coffee or a local treat like shirasu-don (rice topped with tiny whitebait). As you near Enoshima, the view of the island and the long bridge to it is absolutely breathtaking. You can even take a detour onto the island itself to visit its shrines and scenic viewpoints.
For convenience, renting a bike is very easy. There are plenty of rental shops near Kamakura Station. Go for a simple `mamachari` (a standard Japanese city bike). They often come with baskets, perfect for carrying your speaker, water bottle, and towel. The best time to go is on a weekday during spring or autumn. The weather is ideal for cycling, and you’ll avoid the huge weekend and summer crowds. Trust me, with your City Pop playlist blasting, cruising down Route 134 as the Enoden train rolls by is an experience so perfect, so visually stunning, it almost feels unreal.
Gearing Up: The Essentials
To fully capture the vibes of your City Pop cycling day, having the right gear is essential. It’s not about owning the priciest equipment; it’s about carefully choosing your setup for the ideal experience.
The Bike & Audio
As mentioned, a simple `mamachari` is genuinely the best option. This isn’t a race — it’s a laid-back cruise. Comfort is key, allowing you to sit upright and enjoy the scenery. For your music, a small, portable Bluetooth speaker works perfectly. Look for one that can clip onto your bike or fit securely in the basket. Just keep the volume in check; you want to create your own vibe bubble without bothering others on the path. Alternatively, bone-conduction headphones are a fantastic choice. They let you hear your music clearly while keeping your ears open to traffic and ambient sounds, which is a huge safety benefit.
The Fit & The Extras
This is your moment to embrace the aesthetic. Think 80s summer vibes: a loose, flowy button-up shirt over a t-shirt, comfortable shorts, and classic sneakers. Key accessories include a sharp pair of sunglasses and maybe a bucket hat or baseball cap. You’re dressing like the star of your own album cover. Beyond style, be practical. Sunscreen is a must — the Japanese sun is intense, even on overcast days. Bring a large bottle of water or Pocari Sweat to stay hydrated. A small `tenugui` (a thin Japanese cotton towel) is also highly useful. It’s incredibly versatile—you can use it to wipe sweat, dry your hands, or even tie it around your head. Finally, make sure your phone is fully charged; you’ll need it for music, navigation, and snapping countless photos and videos to capture a day this perfect.
Go Create Your Moment
Here it is: the playlist, the location, the gear, the entire vibe. A City Pop cycling trip is more than just an enjoyable day out. It’s a way to connect with a unique, enchanting aspect of Japanese culture. It’s about embracing that sense of nostalgic optimism, refined leisure, and the simple, profound joy of a perfect summer day. The music enhances the scenery, and the scenery gives the music a brand-new meaning. Together, they create a sensation of pure, unfiltered freedom.
So please, take this playlist, customize it, add your own favorites. Find a stretch of coastline, whether in Shonan or somewhere else entirely. Hop on a bike, hit play, and just ride. Let the groovy basslines and shimmering synths become the soundtrack to your own personal movie. Craft a memory so golden and sunlit that it feels like a dream you can revisit again and again. Now go ahead, get out there. The vibe is waiting.
