[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Tracks of Japanese Rap
Thanks to the freestyle boom of the 2010s, Japanese rap has come back into the spotlight.
As US rap has become more accessible to the general public via the internet, HIPHOP’s popularity has been growing in Japan as well.
This time, we’ve curated a selection of classic Japanese rap tracks!
We’ve picked gems from old-school eras like the 1990s and 2000s, as well as standout hits from talented up-and-coming rappers leading today’s scene.
Whether you love classic rap or today’s trap, there’s something here for you—so be sure to read to the end!
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[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (121–130)
Contact TOSHIKI HAYASHI (%C) remixSuzuki Mamiko
An EP released as the first solo work by MC Mamiko of the girls’ rap duo Chelmico.
From the tracks on the EP, DJ and trackmaker Toshiki Hayashi (%C)—who also serves as live DJ for Hooliganz and Public Musume.—handled the remix.
It’s stylish, and I want even people who don’t usually listen to hip-hop to give it a try.
Bright roomLEX & LANA
A track by LEX and LANA that captivates with its translucent vocals and lyrics that pierce the heart.
Released in April 2024, the song leaves a strong impression with its warm atmosphere that evokes the bond between siblings.
Their journey from a dark past toward a bright future carries a powerful hope that lights up listeners’ hearts.
It’s also intriguing that the song was created for the POP YOURS festival.
It’s perfect not only for hip-hop fans but for anyone who wants to keep moving forward.
You’ll surely be captivated by the harmony woven from LEX’s distinctive voice and LANA’s clear, soaring vocals.
Big BlueShakkazombie
SHAKKAZOMBIE was a unit that was hugely active in Japan’s hip-hop scene in the ’90s.
This is their 1999 release, a song called “Big Blue.” It’s a very beautiful track.
Hip-hop often carries a rough image, but listening to this song makes that image vanish in an instant.
Both the sound and the lyrics are wonderfully pure.
ADHD feat. BenjazzykZm
This track, released in December 2025 by rapper kZm, known as a member of YENTOWN, features Benjazzy.
The production is handled by Chaki Zulu, who has worked extensively on kZm’s projects.
Their tight raps over a high-velocity beat have the power to set listeners’ hearts racing.
Lyrically, it captures the modern sensation of relentless social media notifications and judgments, intertwining themes of competition and the drive for success.
It’s a perfect pick-me-up when you’re in the mood for energetic hip-hop.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Tracks of Japanese Rap (131–140)
You haven’t even tried (doing it).hannya
This is a track by the skilled rapper Hannya.
Released in July 2025, it’s included on his fifteenth album, “Last Answer.” The highlight is the fusion of a hard-hitting beat that revives the feel of ’90s hip-hop with a mellow sound featuring NAOtheLAIZA.
The lyrics depict a soul-deep cry: “Don’t give up before you’ve even tried.” It urges listeners not to be swayed by negative voices around them and insists that life can change by overcoming the walls in front of you.
It’s a song you should hear when your knees shake before a new challenge or when you need the courage to face adversity.
B1ID
This track by ID depicts the search for one’s own light on a lonely night.
Amid a dark, melancholic atmosphere, it charts a journey of self-exploration.
The trek through the city’s marshlands seems to symbolize life’s trials.
Included on the album “B1,” released in August 2022, the piece was completed after roughly two years of production.
The title—said to be inspired by the basement level (B1) where ID’s music lab is located—is another point of interest.
Though ID gained recognition through his appearance on Freestyle Dungeon, here he avoids any superficial flair, instead laying bare a genuine inner conflict.
It’s a must-listen for those who appreciate deep introspection or are seeking a new shape of hip-hop.
SEVENTH HEAVEN feat. Chinza DOPENESS & G.RINAZEN-LA-ROCK
ZEN-LA-ROCK, known as an old-school fanatic.
Released in 2017, it became a hit.
It drew attention at the time as it marked his first full album release in five years.
Collaborations include the scene’s eccentric genius Chinza DOPENESS—who enjoys fervent support for his one-of-a-kind hooks and flow—and culture maker G.RINA.
By the way, the music video was shot in Korea, resulting in visuals with a distinctive atmosphere!