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 Artists Ranking [2026] (51–60)
Higher (dir. Spikey John)Mall Boyz (Tohji, gummyboy)57rank/position
A young rapper with a background of being born in London and raised in Yokohama, whose free-spirited artistry, unbound by anyone, captivates fans.
They went viral with tracks uploaded to SoundCloud, gaining attention especially among younger audiences and steadily raising their profile.
In 2019, they achieved a collaboration with OKAMOTO’S, further boosting expectations for what’s to come.
Baby Girl ～sweet lovesong～Mr.OZ feat CITY-ACE58rank/position
It’s a love song where a love story unfolds through mellow lyrics.
The beautiful melody and chorus convey a grand expression of love.
It’s a classic I can recommend even to those listening to Japanese hip-hop for the first time.
Our Song feat. MACCHONORIKIYO59rank/position
A friendship anthem spun through rap.
This track, included on “Heisei Express,” is by NORIKIYO and MACCHO.
Riding a heavy beat, their commanding flows fuse together.
Opening with the lyric “There’s no meaning in simply being born,” it calls on listeners to become the protagonists of their own lives.
Released in March 2019 on their ninth album, the song’s music video—directed by filmmaker Katsuya Tomita—was shot in the slums of the Philippines.
It’s a recommended listen for those in the midst of self-discovery or anyone who wants to cherish bonds with friends.
snow jamRin Oto60rank/position
A heartwarming love song that you’ll want to listen to on a quiet, snowy night.
Featuring Rin-ne’s gentle vocal tone and melodic rap, this track was released in February 2020 as a digital-only single.
Its tender message to those in love and lyrics that delicately portray everyday stagnation and loneliness resonate with listeners.
It gained buzz on social media platforms like TikTok and topped Spotify’s Viral Chart “Viral Top 50 (Japan),” becoming especially popular among younger audiences.
With a friendly rhythm and flow that make it easy to try at karaoke, it’s a perfect song to enjoy with your partner during the winter season.
Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artists Ranking [2026] (61–70)
Perfect Blue (feat. Tiji Jojo, Daichi Yamamoto, RYO-Z)STUTS & ZOT on the WAVE61rank/position
This track is a collaboration by the powerhouse producer unit STUTS and ZOT on the WAVE, featuring an all-star lineup of guest artists.
Produced as the unit’s second single in July 2025, it includes contributions from Tiji Jojo, Daichi Yamamoto, and RYO-Z of RHYMESTER.
A smooth track themed around summer drives and the glossy tones of a talkbox make a strong impression.
Energetic flows, emotive rap, and verses radiating veteran poise come together to create a mellow, groovy soundscape.
Another highlight is that this marks STUTS and RYO-Z’s first collaboration since “Magic Hour.” Highly recommended for anyone looking to unwind with some chill hip-hop.
LONGINESS REMIXSugLawd Familiar, CHICO CARLITO, Awich62rank/position
A landmark track representing Okinawa’s hip-hop scene has arrived.
This collaborative piece by SugLawd Familiar, CHICO CARLITO, and Awich is a powerful message song that critiques imitation and asserts a strong will for self-expression.
Its dark sound, fusing reggae and hip-hop, leaves a striking impression while showcasing each artist’s individuality.
Released in December 2022, it was followed in April 2023 by a music video depicting Okinawan culture and landscapes.
The one-take performance on the popular YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE also stirred buzz, surpassing 7.5 million views in three months.
Highly recommended for those who value staying true to themselves or want to explore Okinawa’s new musical culture.
Neva EnuffZEEBRA + AKTION63rank/position
This work is striking for its very hardcore lyrics and music video.
That’s no surprise, since the track was inspired by Takeshi Kitano’s film “BROTHER.” The one performing with ZEEBRA is the actor Kuroudo Maki, whose MC name is AKTION.
Seeing these two handsome guys exuding menace as they perform together is absolutely powerful.