[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 (191–200)
EXPO EXPOm-flo
From the historic masterpiece “EXPO EXPO,” themed around an imaginary world exposition, comes a stylish and cool track.
VERBAL’s rapid-fire, edgy rap work, LISA’s sultry vocals, and ☆Taku’s sophisticated sound design blend together seamlessly.
Released in March 2001, it reached No.
3 on the Oricon album chart, sold over 800,000 copies, and earned a Platinum certification.
The work captivates with its narrative centered on a tour of a fictional world exposition and its musical fusion of hip-hop, R&B, jazz, and funk.
It’s the perfect track for listeners seeking innovative sounds and a distinctive, imaginative world.
Make It Rain (feat. eyden & Watson)MC TYSON
A track that fuses a homage to 2000s hip-hop with a modern sensibility.
Packed with MC TYSON’s appeal, the song revolves around the theme of “making it rain,” flaunting a luxurious lifestyle and success.
Featured on the album THE MESSAGE 6, released in October 2024, it stands out with a beat reminiscent of classics by 50 Cent and Fat Joe.
The music video depicts lavish casino scenes and lively parties, blending nostalgia with freshness.
It’s a perfect pick for driving or party BGM.
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.
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.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Songs (201–210)
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.
BANKChiba Yūki
Created by Yuki Chiba in collaboration with producer Koshy, this work portrays social themes of inequality and poverty with realism while expressing a strong will to break free from them.
With mixing and mastering by international sound creator Jaitzen Joshua, it achieves a world-class, heavyweight sound.
Released in March 2025 as the lead track from the album “Billionaire,” it offers a great opportunity to dive into the world of Japanese hip-hop.
Who is it?Chiba Yūki
It’s a soul-stirring track that invites you on a journey of self-discovery.
Created by Yuki Chiba and released in November 2024, the song is marked by lyrics that repeatedly ask, “Who am I?”—a memorable refrain that prompts you to reexamine your own sense of self.
Rooted in hip-hop while posing philosophical questions, this bold approach truly shines.
Give it a listen when you want to reset your feelings or calm your mind—you’re sure to uncover something new.