[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 (151–160)
Cry BabyG-k.i.d
Rapper G-k.i.d, who has also been active as a member of the hip-hop crew BAD HOP.
This track from his album “Hood Melody DELUXE,” released in September 2025, rides a beat that captures the raw atmosphere of the streets, highlighted by a vocal that’s wild yet sensual.
The lyrics, which candidly express the conflicts and loneliness hidden behind a smile, carry a warmth that feels like it gently stays close to a heart that puts on a brave face.
Soulful hip-hop you’ll want to play on nights spent alone in quiet reflection.
HERELANA
This is a dreamlike message song that stands out for its husky vocal work.
It’s a track by LANA, a rapper from Shonan who has captured the hearts of Gen Z, released in 2025.
Rooted in hip-hop and R&B yet transcending genre boundaries, its free-spirited musicality is captivating.
LANA’s lyrics—brimming with raw, relatable emotion—pair perfectly with her delicate flow.
Even while carrying failure and loneliness, the song’s forward-looking stance will give you a gentle push.
No.5LANA
This is a track by LANA that reflects both the struggles and the joys of being an artist.
Released in November 2024, it’s also included on the album “20.” The lyrics strongly express self-affirmation and a drive for success, and combined with the distinctive guitar sound, they create a truly one-of-a-kind world.
The yearning for an inner radiance that material things can’t satisfy conveys LANA’s passion for music.
MATSURITokyo Young Vision
A vibrant, high-energy track that’s perfect for the end of summer! Released by Tokyo Young Vision in September 2024, this number blends a modern hip-hop sound with the spirit of Japanese festivals.
Call-and-response shouts from all the members are sprinkled throughout, giving you the exhilarating feeling of a live show just by listening.
The theme—“cherish your true self and have fun with your crew”—is uplifting and energizing.
It’s the ideal song for looking back on summer memories while resetting your mindset for the seasons ahead.
BASH BASH feat. JP THE WAVY & AwichLANA
LANA, a female rapper who enjoys overwhelming support from young people for her husky voice and realistic lyrics, commands a striking presence in Japan’s hip-hop scene.
In this track, she features two fellow scene leaders, JP THE WAVY and Awich.
The song portrays a powerful image of a woman who tackles both work and play with energy and forges her own path through her own strength.
It opens the EP “19,” released in July 2023, and the heavy, highly addictive beat produced by ZOT on the WAVE and Homunculu$ makes it especially compelling.
It’s a track that boosts your self-esteem just by listening, making it perfect for moments when you want to lift your mood.
Iron D**kTohji, Loota & Brodinski
Tohji is a highly skilled rapper at the forefront of Japan’s hip-hop scene.
While Japan’s trap music has been leveling up recently, Tohji’s tracks stand a head or two above the rest, radiating a powerful individuality in every release.
Among them, the one I especially recommend is “Iron D**k.” It features a track with an unusual amount of modulation for hip-hop, and a flow and message that burst with originality—the exact opposite of anything formulaic.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (161–170)
Sunshine feat. Miliyah KatoKM-MARKIT
Released in 2005, this track is included on KM-MARKIT’s solo debut single.
Although KM-MARKIT often appears as a featured artist, he takes the lead MC role on this song.
The sound leans strongly toward pop, and the arrangement highlights Miliyah Kato’s vocals.
Rather than a shouted rap style, it feels more like a spoken, conversational flow, making it a calm, immersive listen.