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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- [Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026] (21–30)
As Love IsBASI29rank/position
Set to a mellow, chill hip-hop sound, this track lyrically portrays the warmth and love found in everyday life.
With keyboard arrangements by Saetsu, a member of BASI & THE BASIC BAND, and a feature by Okinawa-born rapper Tsubaki, it comes together as a warm, soulful piece.
Released as a 7-inch vinyl in October 2018 and later included on the album “Setsuai,” the song has become widely loved, with its music video surpassing 3 million views.
Expanding a musical world wrapped in kindness and affection, this is a track we especially recommend to anyone looking to try rapping.
Its gentle spirit and love for music add rich color to the piece, carrying a heartwarming message.
it’s okayLANA30rank/position
This is a song whose melody resonates deeply, perfect for a summer evening.
LANA’s husky, soulful voice blends beautifully with the warm tones of the acoustic guitar, vividly portraying the bittersweet scenes of a summer slipping away.
While rooted in hip-hop, the track captures a sense of nostalgia and freshness, winning over many listeners as a new kind of pop.
It’s a gentle work that quietly stays close to universally felt emotions—fleeting summer encounters and farewells.
The song was released in August 2024 on LANA’s own label, LANA MUSIC, and was later included in her much-anticipated debut album “20” in November of the same year.
Her 2025 performance on THE FIRST TAKE once again proved the strength of her vocals and captivated countless viewers.
Give it a listen when you’re feeling a touch of end-of-summer melancholy or want to look back on precious memories.
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.
