Japanese Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2026]

Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme22rank/position

Hilcrhyme – “Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter” Music Video

This song is striking for its lyrics that beautifully depict the changing of the seasons and its pleasant rap.

Hilcrhyme’s warm voice poetically expresses Japan’s four seasons.

Released as a single in September 2009, it was also chosen as the ending theme for many TV programs.

It’s a reliable choice for karaoke, and the especially emotive rap parts are sure to stir deep feelings.

An essential track for livening up karaoke with friends, it continues to be loved by many as an approachable song that lets anyone enjoy rap.

Last Party Never End feat. Tiji Jojo, YZERR, Yellow Pato & VingoBAD HOP23rank/position

BAD HOP – Last Party Never End feat. Tiji Jojo, YZERR, Yellow Pato & Vingo(Official Video)

Characterized by its emotional trap beat, this track has drawn attention as a song that symbolizes BAD HOP’s breakup.

Centered on the theme of a last party with childhood friends, the lyrics are infused with the members’ memories and friendship, celebrating the importance of forgetting the everyday and enjoying the present.

Included on their final album “BAD HOP,” released on February 9, 2024, the track was accompanied by a music video released the same day.

It’s recommended for those who want to try Japanese rap at karaoke or cherish special moments with their crew.

Experience this song packed with the essence of BAD HOP for yourself.

doppelgängerCreepy Nuts24rank/position

【MV】Creepy Nuts – doppelgänger

This track stands out with a four-on-the-floor, danceable beat.

Centered on themes of the multifaceted nature everyone carries and the struggle with oneself, it deftly captures the emotions of people living in modern society.

Its euphoric sound and interwoven rap layers create a worldview that further amplifies the fun of the piece.

Featured on the album “LEGION,” it was written in January 2025 as the theme song for the film “Under Ninja.” Nail the rapid-fire, rhyme-packed rap parts, and you’re guaranteed to get the crowd going.

free spaceGadoro25rank/position

GADORO – Free Space (Prod. CHIVA from BUZZER BEATS)

This is one of GADORO’s signature tracks, humorously depicting life and values over a driving, fast-paced beat.

While positively contrasting ideals with reality, it compellingly sings about a down-to-earth way of living.

Included on the album “TAKANABE,” the song teams up with producer CHIVA from BUZZER BEATS to capture listeners with a pleasant sense of release.

The music video features Machiura Pink, and the visual world crafted by director ISSEI is also a must-see.

Since its release in April 2024, the song has drawn a strong response.

The lyrics are rapid-fire and may be a bit challenging, but the melody is approachable—so be sure to give it a try and sing along.

To Us Who Were Once GeniusesCreepy Nuts26rank/position

[MV] Creepy Nuts – To Us Who Were Once Geniuses

A Creepy Nuts track that addresses life’s uncertainties and possibilities through rap.

Set to a jazzy beat, it looks back on past choices while singing about hope for the future.

Released in August 2020, it was also used as the theme song for a Teikyo Heisei University commercial.

Included on the album “To Us Who Were Once Geniuses,” it reached a peak of No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart.

They also held a nationwide tour, including a show at the Nippon Budokan, captivating fans.

It’s a recommended song for those standing at a crossroads in life or anyone who wants to believe in their own potential.

Gear 5 feat. ACE COOL & Ralph（Prod. FOUX）OZworld27rank/position

OZworld / Gear 5 feat. ACE COOL & Ralph（Prod. FOUX）【Official Music Video】

Okinawan rapper OZworld’s new track is a powerful piece themed around challenge and growth.

Featuring ACE COOL and Ralph, it brings out the unique character of all three artists.

Produced by FOUX, the song was released in September 2023.

It’s marked by highly message-driven lyrics that resonate with listeners, including phrases that evoke One Piece.

It’s the perfect song when you want to pursue your dreams or try something new.

Give it a listen whenever you need to fire yourself up!

Heart Throbsnobobyknows̟+28rank/position

nobodyknows+ “Kokoro Odoru” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This signature song by nobodyknows+ is a gem that brilliantly fuses hip-hop and J-pop.

Released as a single in May 2004 and included on the album “Do You Know?” the same year, it also earned them a spot on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

The lyrics express the small joys found in everyday life and the positive energy that music brings.

Its structure—where a vivid melodic chorus intertwines with rap—makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at karaoke.

In 2022, a one-take performance on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE was released and racked up 10 million views in a month.

It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to liberate their heart through music.