A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: classic tracks of Japanese hip-hop
When you think of Japanese rap summer songs, does any track come to mind?
Even listeners who don’t usually listen to hip-hop probably know signature songs by popular groups and tracks by legendary artists who’ve led the scene—there are so many to choose from.
In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of hip-hop tracks you’ll want to play as summer approaches.
Alongside timeless classics, there are plenty of great picks from artists who’ve been getting attention recently.
We hope you discover some amazing songs here.
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A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: Classic J-hip-hop tracks (41–50)
12cm Shoulders feat. Baby Dee Beatst-Ace
Rapper t-Ace, who calls himself a “scumbag” and runs a YouTube channel called “Channel Kuzu,” released a summer tune in 2019 titled “12cm no Kata,” whose lyrics—based on real experiences—became a hot topic.
There’s something a little timid and cute about how he feels at ease resting on his girlfriend’s 12-centimeter-wide shoulder.
The music video, which is set mainly at the beach, is also a must-see.
A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: Classic tracks of Japanese hip-hop (51–60)
Summer MemoriesKetsumeishi
Here’s one summer staple from Ketsumeishi.
This song gradually brought them into the spotlight, and they became so popular that people started saying, “When it’s summer, it’s these guys!” They’re cool gentlemen, and there’s no doubt they’ll keep thriving from here on out!
Wave feat. C.O.S.A.Dangaryu
Rapper Dengaryu, repping Yamanashi Prefecture.
His track “Wave feat.
C.O.S.A.” was released in January 2020.
Right after dropping the song, he announced a large-scale tour covering 23 locations nationwide, which became a hot topic.
The song uses summer as its theme and sings about the spirit of adventure in taking on new challenges.
As you can tell from the tour announcement that followed immediately, “WAVE” likely refers to a new wave or a new challenge.
It’s an uplifting track, so if you’re feeling down, definitely give it a listen!
Live Like SummerSkaai × KM
It’s a track by next-generation rapper Skaai and producer KM that vividly conjures up a seaside drive.
The sound is refreshingly bittersweet, evoking the end of summer in a way that feels just right.
The contrast between KM’s meticulously crafted beat and Skaai’s smooth flow—balancing intellect and playfulness—creates an exquisite groove.
Released first as a single in July 2025, it was later included on the EP “Podium.” The lyrics, which seem to cherish fleeting brilliance while lingering over the passing seasons, may also tie into the duo’s shared love of cars and a sense of speed.
It’s a perfect number not only for weekend drives, but also for nights when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood.
Miss Luxury feat. LANA, JP THE WAVY, ¥ellow Bucks Prod. DJ PMXYZERR
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.
My Summer Vacation feat. Bobby BellwoodZEN-LA-ROCK
If you’re looking for a summer tune that’ll get you hyped, I recommend “My Summer Vacation,” a collaboration between ZEN-LA-ROCK and Bobby Bellwood.
As the title suggests, the lyrics all revolve around summer vacation, so just listening to it will definitely make you feel the summer vibes.
Even if you’ve already graduated from school, it’ll probably bring back memories of your own summer breaks.
Remember feat. YOUNG JUJU (Prod. Chaki Zulu)Awich
Awich is an artist from Okinawa.
Many of you may know her since she often collaborates with famous Japanese rappers.
She started learning English as a child at conversation classes on a U.S.
military base, so her near-native pronunciation is striking.
Her vocal ability is also strong, so it almost feels like you’re listening to Western music! “Remember feat.
YOUNG JUJU (Prod.
Chaki Zulu)” is a powerful track with a breezy summer vibe.