[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 Tracks in Japanese Rap (41–50)
all green feat. TsuwamonoDJ RYOW
This is a song called “all green” by DJ RYOW.
It features the rapper Tsubaki from Okinawa.
The stylish piano tones and Tsubaki’s rap make it a track that gets you hyped.
The relaxed melody of the chorus instantly puts your mind at ease.
It’s a song whose heartfelt lyrics really hit home.
It’s included on the album “NEW X CLASSIC.”
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (51–60)
Graduation (feat. Shuto)hannya
Rapper Hannya, who headlined a successful solo show at the Nippon Budokan and in recent years has carved out a unique presence as an actor, returns with a digital single released in February 2026 featuring guest artist Hiito, who is based in Okinawa.
The track is marked by a calm, piano-centered beat.
Its candid lyrics that lay bare past memories intertwine with Hiito’s emotionally rich vocals, quietly tightening the listener’s chest.
The unadorned episodes—bittersweet memories of youth and the struggles of younger days—seem to gently embrace the farewells and pains that everyone experiences.
It’s an emotional song that gives you the courage to carry your past and move forward at life’s turning points, such as graduations and new departures.
Take your time and let it sink in.
serious injuryoo-kami
Released in 1996, this track is by a special unit formed by BUDDHA BRAND and SHAKKA ZOMBIE.
The sampling track uses A Taste of Honey’s “Rescue Me.” Considered one of the divine classics of Hip Hop, the late DEV LARGE’s flow and OSUMI’s powerful rap still sound absolutely timeless today.
The wordplay and back-and-forth are superb, making it an easy track for beginners to get into.
MASTERMINDMUMMY-D feat. ZEEBRA
This is a collaborative work by two heavyweights of the underground scene.
You can fully savor their lyrics and worldview as they unfold over a breezy rhythm.
Just play this track while driving and you’ll feel like a gangsta.
Reality feelin’ on my mindVaVa
This is “Reality Feelin’ on my mind,” released in 2018 by the beatmaker VaVa.
The brass sounds are laid-back and make it a very pleasant track.
The lyrics are super sentimental, too.
When things aren’t going well at work or otherwise, you can’t help but think, “I wish I could just live in a game world…” right? This is a song I’d love for you to listen to at times like that.
Lip Service MonsterGaki Renjā
A classic track that was selected in 2010 for the “History-Making Japanese Rap Classic Remaster Limited Edition.” A HIPHOP group known for fresh, high-quality recordings and showmanship-packed staging—“2 MCs, 2 DJs, and 1 God.” A hidden treasure of Japan’s music industry, their works, including this one, are marked by distinctive punchline-driven lyrics.
The 90s-flavored sampling loops and simple beats are also outstanding, so be sure to check them out!
Yamanote LineNORIKIYO
When you’re on the train, your mind tends to wander, doesn’t it? This is a song called “Yamanote Line” by the rapper NORIKIYO.
The neo-soul beat is stylish and wonderful.
Over that track, he sings about the casual scenes you notice on the train.
If you ride the train regularly, you’ll likely relate to this song.
Perfect companion for your morning commute!