The most anticipated hip-hop event of the year is coming soon. RAPSTAR 2025 is presenting STARZ 2025, an exceptional show taking place on December 13, 2025, at the prestigious Kyooh Arena in Tokyo.
Kohjiya, the 2024 Champion, Opens the Show
The first confirmed artist for STARZ 2025 is none other than Kohjiya. This talented rapper won the previous edition of RAPSTAR. His performance left a lasting impression and earned him the coveted title of “Rap Star.” Fans will get the chance to see him perform live at this new event. Kohjiya is currently headlining his first solo tour across Japan. His success perfectly illustrates the impact RAPSTAR can have on an artist’s career.
A Record-Breaking Competition with 6,780 Participants
This year, RAPSTAR 2025 has reached an all-time high in participation. A total of 6,780 aspiring rappers applied to try their luck, the most significant number since the program launched in 2017. Contestants must create their own lyrics and perform them over beats produced by six renowned beatmakers. These talented producers include Chaki Zulu, KM, STUTS, SLICK, Homunculu$, and Nosh. Each contestant chooses a beat and adds their own lyrics to craft a unique performance.
An Exceptional Jury to Judge the Talents
RAPSTAR 2025 brings together an impressive panel of experts. Returning judges SEEDA, R-Shitei, and ZOT on the WAVE are back once again. Three new faces join the lineup: Benjazzy, kZm, and OMSB, each bringing their expertise to the selection process. RYUZO continues to serve as the program’s organizer, overseeing the project since its inception. Hiromasa Yashiki, from the comedy duo New York, hosts the show with his unique style. The highlight of STARZ 2025 will undoubtedly be the RAPSTAR 2025 finale, where the new champion will be crowned among the selected contestants. The show combines live performances from established artists with the ultimate battle between the top participants. The winner will receive 3 million yen to further their music career—an invaluable opportunity to fund future projects and break into the hip-hop industry.
The members of the RAPSTAR 2025 jury
Abema RAPSTAR 2025 Official website
Tickets for STARZ 2025 are already available in an exclusive presale. The reservation period runs from September 20 at 11:00 PM until October 6 at 11:59 PM. Fans can register via the e-plus platform to enter the priority lottery. Each person may reserve up to four tickets maximum. The organizers are also offering Platinum tickets, which grant access to a privileged area near the stage. These premium tickets include an official RAPSTAR bandana as an exclusive gift.
A Program That Reveals the Stars of Tomorrow
Since 2017, RAPSTAR has discovered and promoted new talents in Japanese rap. Artists such as ¥ellow Bucks and Ralph launched their careers thanks to the show and are now prominent figures in Japan’s hip-hop scene. The program will air on September 20, 2025, at 10:00 PM on ABEMA. This Japanese streaming platform is known for its high-quality original content, and RAPSTAR fits right in by showcasing emerging rap talent.
STARZ 2025
Venue
Keio Arena TOKYO (formerly Musashino Forest Sport Plaza)
Ticket Types & Prices
- Platinum Ticket: ¥19,900 (tax included)
With a Platinum Ticket, you can enjoy the show from the front arena area and receive an exclusive “RAPSTAR Original Bandana” available only for ticket holders. - Gold Ticket: ¥13,900 (tax included)
- A Seat (rear arena & designated stand seats): ¥11,900 (tax included)
Ticket Sales Schedule / Fastest Advance Lottery
- Application Page:
- Application Period: September 20, 2025 (Sat) 11:00 PM – October 6, 2025 (Mon) 11:59 PM
- Result Announcement: From October 9, 2025 (Thu) 12:00 AM
- Payment Deadline: Until October 11, 2025 (Sat)
For convenience store payments, the deadline is October 11 (Sat) 9:00 PM.
Performers
Kohjiya and more
Performers are subject to change.
The additional lineup will be announced in due course.
Organizer]
AbemaTV, Inc.
Inquiries
- For inquiries about the event: SOGO TOKYO
- For inquiries about tickets: e-plus Customer Center
