Popular Japanese rappers. Recommended Japanese (J-pop) rappers.
Japanese hip-hop has now gained enough mainstream recognition to appear on J-POP charts.
From veteran rappers who have built the scene to up-and-coming artists who’ve risen to prominence in recent years, a wide variety of rappers are active today.
In this article, we’ll introduce these rappers all at once, regardless of generation!
It’s a lineup that will catch the eye of hardcore hip-hop heads as well as those who are just thinking about getting into hip-hop.
Let’s dive right in!
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Popular Japanese rappers. Recommended Japanese (J-hip hop) rappers (21–30)
WAVEBODYJP THE WAVY
Hailing from Shonan City in Kanagawa Prefecture, JP THE WAVY is a rapper who captivates young audiences with his distinctive music and fashion.
A track he released in 2017 became a viral hit, quickly propelling him into the ranks of popular rappers.
Born from a conversation with friends, the song sparked major buzz on social media.
Known for his bold, colorful fashion sense and bass-heavy tracks, he has earned high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.
In 2023, he performed at Rolling Loud, one of the world’s largest hip-hop festivals, reflecting his growing international presence and fueling expectations for even greater success.
He’s a recommended artist not only for hip-hop fans but also for anyone interested in unique music and fashion.
Dandelion feat. ZORNKREVA
KREVA, who once made a huge impact as an MC for KICK THE CAN CREW, is probably one of those artists known even to listeners who don’t usually listen to hip-hop in depth.
Beyond his songwriting sensibilities and rapping skills, he also set overwhelming records in MC battles, making him a truly indispensable figure in the scene.
In addition to his work with KICK THE CAN CREW, he’s also very active in his solo career and other units.
His uniquely tenacious flow is insanely cool, so be sure to check out a variety of his tracks.
Let me tell you, whether you know it or not—show!TOKONA-X
This is a classic track by TOKONA-X, a Nagoya rapper who remains legendary even after his death.
The track is catchy yet exudes a gritty, thug vibe, expressing the life of a seasoned, stoic man.
It still commands a strong presence today, firing up crowds as a battle track.
popular power plantBUDDHA BRAND
A masterpiece by the rapper Buddha Brand, who erected a monument in hip-hop and made his presence known overseas as one of the most famous rappers.
The smooth melodic line and the uplifting hook are renowned, and its intellectual lyrics and airy, floating feel have helped lay the proper foundation for Japanese rap.
All Night Longbenizakura
This is a classic track by Benizakura, a hardcore, gangsta-like rapper representing Okayama.
Despite his plump appearance, his intimidating presence makes his live performances overwhelming, and he has established himself with a commanding presence as a rapper boasting outstanding recognition in the live scene.
serious injuryoo-kami
This is a famous track by rappers centered around Shakkazombie, who had emerged as a charismatic presence in old-school Japanese hip-hop.
It holds a position worthy of being called a classic, and its flow—at the forefront of dope, hardcore rhyming—has influenced later generations.
Onahamaoni
It’s a legendary track by Oni whose poetic worldview and intellectually witty lyrics give it a unique presence.
It has captivated many literary-minded b-boys and earned support from all sides as a work of art, establishing its status as a presence elevated to a professional realm as a rapper.