[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 (181–190)
As Love IsBASI
Set to a mellow, chill hip-hop sound, this track lyrically portrays the warmth and love found in everyday life.
With keyboard arrangements by Saetsu, a member of BASI & THE BASIC BAND, and a feature by Okinawa-born rapper Tsubaki, it comes together as a warm, soulful piece.
Released as a 7-inch vinyl in October 2018 and later included on the album “Setsuai,” the song has become widely loved, with its music video surpassing 3 million views.
Expanding a musical world wrapped in kindness and affection, this is a track we especially recommend to anyone looking to try rapping.
Its gentle spirit and love for music add rich color to the piece, carrying a heartwarming message.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (191–200)
room for growthCreepy Nuts
This song, featured on the album “Case,” explores the struggle with aging and the potential for personal growth.
It conveys the resolve to keep moving forward while accepting oneself as an adult.
Released in September 2021 as part of the album “Case,” the track was also adopted as a cheer song for professional baseball, resonating in sports and business settings alike.
It positively frames the experience and perspectives gained with age—such as flexible thinking, knowing how to ease up appropriately, and interpersonal skills.
It’s a perfect song for those who believe in their own growth and want to take on new challenges.
do ONRIP SLYME
A hip-hop tune marking the group’s first reunion in about nine years.
It’s a track by RIP SLYME, released in April 2025.
The rhythmic progression will send your mood soaring, and the lyrics’ message—celebrating the joy and passion of immersing yourself in what you love—gives you a real boost.
If you want to feel the thrill of being absorbed in your favorite things and savor an unbeatable groove, this song is highly recommended.
BushidoGood Gas & JP THE WAVY
This is a powerful track where traditional Japanese culture and contemporary trap sound fuse together, delivering a resonant message.
Riding over a heavy beat, JP THE WAVY’s smooth flow unfolds, brilliantly expressing quintessential Japanese elements like Mount Fuji and samurai alongside themes of self-affirmation and bonds with friends.
Featured on the soundtrack for F9, released in June 2021, it marked the only participation by an Asian artist.
Through a collaboration with globally active producer Good Gas, the song opened up a new frontier for Japanese hip-hop.
It’s perfect for moments when you want an energetic boost—like driving or working out—and is also recommended for overseas listeners interested in Japanese culture.
BillikenCreepy Nuts
This is a track whose upbeat, forward-looking rap, riding a lively beat, makes your heart race.
Inspired by the Osaka deity said to bring good fortune through the soles of your feet, it’s a humor-filled work by Creepy Nuts that conveys their presence as rappers who usher in happiness.
DJ Matsunaga’s refined, Jersey club–style track is interwoven with R-Shitei’s skillful wordplay, drawing listeners in.
Released in October 2023, the song was featured in a commercial for the alcoholic beverage ZIMA, and its music video—shot in iconic Osaka locations like Tsutenkaku and Umeda—also made waves.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to turn anxious feelings into positive energy, or when you’re living through days so busy you can hardly catch your breath.
Bugging feat. kZm, Awich, PETZ, MonyHorse & JNKMNYENTOWN
Jersey club beats that seem to symbolize the chaos of the digital society resound with a satisfying pulse.
This stylish track by YENTOWN was released in March 2025.
Over the bold beats produced by DJ JAM, five MCs deliver aggressive raps.
It vividly portrays the swirling emotions inside people living in today’s information-saturated world, and in the music video directed by Hidenori Hotta, the proliferating images of the members visually express that inner turmoil.
A hip-hop number that will stick in your head after just one listen!
NINOKUNI feat. TsubakiOZworld
This track stands out for its mellow sound and beats.
Within lyrics that delve into the spiritual realm and philosophical themes, universal questions about reality vs.
illusion and the nature of self are conveyed through the smooth flows of OZworld and Tsuwaki.
The song is included on the album “OZWORLD,” released in June 2019, and fuses a distinctive sci-fi worldview with a melodic sound.
It strikes an excellent balance between message-rich lyrics and catchy production, making it a guaranteed mood-booster at karaoke.
Highly recommended for those who want to explore new expressions in hip-hop or seek songs with profound messages.