[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 (171–180)
My Resort¥ellow bucks
It’s a captivating track with soothing sounds that make you feel as if you’re on a private beach.
On Tee’s production, ¥ellow Bucks unfolds a world where the sparkle of an extraordinary resort intersects with fleeting scenes from everyday life.
The song is included on his milestone debut album “Jungle,” released in August 2020, and its colorful music video, shot in Okinawa, drew major attention, topping various music video charts in Japan.
It’s guaranteed to lift your spirits on a summer drive or whenever you want to unwind a little.
The chain sings.Chiba Yūki
Through the chain swaying at his neck, he sings about the two sides of the emotions that come with success and wealth.
It’s a track by hip-hop MC Yuki Chiba, released in March 2025, included on his second album, “Billionaire.” The lyrics convey a cool, unshakable stance of staying true to oneself no matter what anyone says.
The more you listen, the more it grows on you—a full-on immersion into the world of Yuki Chiba.
CHAOSNovel Core
Novel Core, who draws attention both underground and aboveground, makes a powerful statement in this track about his identity as a rapper and his unfettered musical style.
Listening to it reminds you of the importance of living true to yourself.
The lyrics carry a heartfelt message, expressing a will to move forward in line with God’s plan through “CHAOS.” Released in March 2024, this song showcases Novel Core’s musical evolution.
It’s perfect for times when you feel lost or need a push forward, and it’s also recommended for anyone who wants to experience genre-defying, free-spirited music.
Sound Bodyziproom
This is a new work by ziproom, a hip-hop collective based in Kobe, weaving introspective, polished beats with melodious rap.
Produced by Arich under the moniker Private Land in May 2025, it adds elements of electronica and R&B to their signature style, resulting in a richer, more nuanced sound.
About six months after their previous EP, Ebis, their evolved sound has been drawing significant attention both in Japan and abroad.
They successfully completed a China tour in March 2025, and have been confirmed to perform at Summer Sonic.
Their intelligent, urban groove and pleasantly weightless textures make this a track that will capture the hearts of music lovers—perfect for night drives or quiet moments.
So heavy.Chiba Yūki
In January 2025, Yuki Chiba released a music video from his album “STAR” for a track marked by its heavy beat and dark mood.
The weighty production wraps around themes of loneliness and inner conflict, while lyrics that candidly address pressure and social anxiety blend seamlessly with it.
The song unfolds an introspective, deeply layered lyrical world, and the monochrome MV—featuring him walking alone against an urban nightscape—powerfully reinforces that atmosphere.
A solo concert at Nippon Budokan has been set for July 3, 2025, further heightening expectations for the live performance of this piece.
It’s a perfect track not only for hip-hop fans but also for anyone who resonates with feelings of pressure and isolation, and it’s sure to make a striking impact on the dance floor.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (181–190)
The Way of BeatSuchadarapā
Schadaraparr, who have firmly established themselves in Japan’s hip-hop scene, celebrate their 35th anniversary with a new release featuring Robo Chu.
Within a unique soundscape where Showa-era sentiment and hip-hop blend beautifully, they deliver a message only they can.
The life-sized perspective, the comedic rhymes, and the groove woven with their longtime ally are genuinely moving.
It’s Japanese rap that resonates naturally with our hearts—something we want both the old and the young to hear.
BrainwashingAwich
Known as one of Awich’s signature tracks, this socially conscious hip-hop piece depicts characters operating behind the scenes of power.
Featuring DOGMA and Chinza DOPENESS, the song delivers sharp critiques of politics, capitalism, and the information society, and has also drawn attention as a beat for MC battles.
Included on Awich’s album “Kujaku” (Peacock) and released in January 2020, it also gained buzz for its music video, which evokes the atmosphere of Showa-era noir films.
With a heavy beat and strongly message-driven lyrics, it’s recommended not only for those practicing for MC battles, but also for listeners interested in social issues or in the expressive power of Japanese rap.