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.
- Japanese Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2026]
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- [Hip-Hop 101] Recommended Japanese Hip-Hop Artists [2026]
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- Popular Japanese music. Latest rankings [2026]
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- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among University Students [2026]
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- KOHH's Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Popular EDM: Artist Rankings [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Artists Among High School Students [2026]
- [Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026] (31–40)
Heart Throbsnobobyknows̟+31rank/position
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.
MarcheKICK THE CAN CREW32rank/position
This song, notable for its energetic relay-style rap by three MCs, is the fifth single by KICK THE CAN CREW, released in January 2002.
Featuring a catchy refrain and a comfortable groove, it has the power to energize and encourage listeners.
Also used as the theme song for the film “No Problem 2,” it became the catalyst for the group’s appearance at the 53rd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of forgetting the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoying the moment, invite everyone to dance, laugh, and share happy times together.
It’s a perfect track for livening up a karaoke session or when you need a dose of positive energy.
I’m in ChargeTOKONA-X33rank/position
It’s a passionate number that rattles off the lifestyle of a rapper.
True to its name, it’s a track by TOKONA-X, a hip-hop MC raised in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, included on his first album Tokai X Teio, released in 2004.
You’re overwhelmed by the rapid-fire flow, which could be described as dizzying.
The lyrics, which reveal a bold life philosophy, are another reason it’s so compelling.
Although TOKONA-X sadly passed away that same year, his music continues to resonate with hip-hop fans to this day.
Miss Luxury feat. LANA, JP THE WAVY, ¥ellow Bucks Prod. DJ PMXYZERR34rank/position
YZERR, also known as the brains behind the hip-hop crew BAD HOP.
Among his solo works, there’s one track in particular that I’d especially recommend to women, included on the album “Dark Hero,” released in February 2025.
The track features LANA, JP THE WAVY, and ¥ellow Bucks—an impressively star-studded lineup.
Over a G-funk-inspired beat produced by DJ PMX, the lyrics explore the theme of a sophisticated, luxurious image of womanhood.
Each artist’s distinctive flow makes the song even more vibrant, and just listening to it can fill you with confidence.
It’s a mellow, stylish piece that even women who aren’t into hard-edged rap can enjoy.
beautiful womanchanmina35rank/position
Rapper Chanmina, who has drawn attention for her exceptional rap skills that fluidly switch between Japanese, English, and Korean—and is even dubbed the “Beyoncé of Nerima.” Her third single, “Bijin,” is a track whose powerful message has resonated especially with younger listeners.
Because the overall tempo is relaxed, it’s easy to follow the phrases, and the subtly rhymed lyrics feel great to perform.
However, be careful: if you don’t pay attention to dynamics and inflection, it won’t capture the original vibe.
WAVEBODY (Remix)JP THE WAVY36rank/position
Featuring a stellar lineup including JP THE WAVY, this track is a guaranteed mood-lifter for the summer.
In the music video, child actors evoking the rappers’ younger selves appear, and the 2000s-inspired visuals add a nostalgic touch that brings back warm memories.
It’s a song you can’t look away from, with powerful bonds among friends and a performance full of confidence.
The MV was released in October 2021, and the track is included on the album “WAVY TAPE 2 (Deluxe)” from the same year.
It drew attention at the time, topping LINE MUSIC’s real-time video chart, among other achievements.
It also saw heavy play in the club scene, including appearances on Red Bull RASEN.
Put it on for summer drives or when you’re hanging out with friends and want to hype things up—you’re guaranteed an even bigger boost.
Let the powerful, deep bass beat take over and enjoy it as the perfect summer BGM!
Money Baby ft. AwichKEIJU37rank/position
This is a profound love song that contrasts money and affection.
Released in October 2024 by KEIJU and Awich, the track centers on the emptiness that material wealth cannot fill and the redemption found in true love.
Premiered before an audience of 8,000 at the finale of KEIJU’s first nationwide tour, it sparked major buzz as the pair’s first eagerly awaited collaboration in seven years.
The lyrics candidly express the mindset of modern people grappling with loneliness, questioning the true value of love that money can’t buy.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone struggling in a romantic relationship or reflecting on the essential richness of life.
In My LifeSALU38rank/position
SALU, who hails from Sapporo, debuted in 2012.
Some of you may have discovered him through his collaborations with SKY-HI or his participation in Shota Shimizu’s tracks.
“In My Life” feels like it carries the wish to acknowledge each other just as we are, saying, “This is my life.” You only live once! It’s easy to listen to even if you’re not familiar with hip-hop, and I highly recommend it.
SALU’s smooth flow has a warmth to it, and it gently casts a soft light on the state of the world—where there are excessive reactions and invisible enemies that are very much a sign of our times.
The Last One feat. J-REXXXJAPANĪZUMAGENĪZU39rank/position
This track captivates with a unique atmosphere born from the fusion of hip-hop and reggae.
Centered on themes of farewell and new beginnings, it uses cigarettes symbolically to depict the end of a party and the resolve to take the next step.
It carries a positive message about forging one’s own path even within society’s constraints, making it an empowering song that resonates with listeners.
Released in August 2022, it was included on Japanese Mageneeze’s album TRIP MASTER2.
Blending a laid-back vibe with strong determination, this piece is recommended for those facing new challenges or looking to reset their daily routine.
Made my dayDakkii × Sweet William40rank/position
Rapper Tsubaki, who is gaining fans rapidly and is based in Okinawa.
Together with track maker Sweet William, this hit song shines with lyrics that reveal a decadent background, in contrast to its comfortable track.
Judging by the sound alone, it seems likely to win support from female listeners too, but content-wise, most of the fans appear to be men—at least from what I see around me.
That said, I often spot women swaying their shoulders while watching the live performance at festivals.
A new-generation hip-hop artist whose future activities are highly anticipated.