Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026]
Hip-hop is a music genre that has developed alongside its own culture, including dance, rap, and sampling.
Although it originated in the United States, there are many artists in Japan who have been influenced by hip-hop.
This time, we’ll introduce a ranking of popular Japanese artists who perform hip-hop.
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Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026] (71–80)
BushidoGood Gas & JP THE WAVY78rank/position
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.
PHONEHITOMIN79rank/position
“PHONE” is a very upbeat track released in 2010 by rapper HITOMIN, who has gained popularity mainly on social media.
The lyrics, which skillfully blend English and Japanese, are full of style and could serve as a great reference for writing your own lyrics.
The tempo isn’t that fast, so with enough practice it seems like it would be easy to sing at karaoke.
If you pay close attention to your English pronunciation, you can capture a vibe closer to the original—so be sure to keep that in mind!
TOMBIKvi Baba80rank/position
“TOMBI,” which was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime TRIGUN STAMPEDE.
This track by Osaka-born rapper and singer-songwriter Kvi Baba, released in 2023, hooks you with its addictive digital texture.
Centered around melody while incorporating rap-like elements in parts, it’s a song that even rap beginners should find easy to sing.
Its dark, industrial vibe also makes it a perfect reference when writing lyrics with a similar feel.
Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026] (81–90)
Make It Rain (feat. eyden & Watson)MC TYSON81rank/position
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.
Viva HappyMitchie M82rank/position
A smash hit by 23.exe, a sound-production pro known for working on a variety of tracks, including collaborations with Taiko no Tatsujin and Namie Amuro.
It’s a high-energy upper-tune that fires off relentless rhymes over a bright, upbeat sound.
The vocals were crafted by tuning Hatsune Miku to sound like a voice actor, giving the track a super cute vibe.
The album featuring this song has a cover illustration by Yoshiyuki Sadamoto of Neon Genesis Evangelion fame, making it a must-see for anime fans as well.
Perfect for when you need a boost of happiness!
ain’t on the map yetNulbarich83rank/position
This is a danceable number that sings about unwavering feelings for someone special.
It’s a track included on Nulbarich’s second album, “H.O.T,” released in 2018.
The razor-sharp dance performed by the boy in the music video is a must-see!
Brain Narcotics RemixRAY84rank/position
It’s a captivating crossover number where the unique styles of diverse artists fuse together.
Originally released in 2023 as a track by RAY, this is the 2025 remix version featuring a stellar lineup including CHEHON, MAKA, and Kujun.
It’s a song that reaffirms the possibilities of hip-hop and music itself, making it a great pick when you want to recharge your energy!