Japan’s Top 10 YouTubers 2024: Social Media Stars & Insights
YouTube is the Key for Japanese Social Media Marketing
In the ever-evolving landscape of Japanese social media, YouTube stands as an indispensable platform. At its heart are the “YouTubers,” creators who share a diverse array of content ranging from product reviews to prank videos, makeup tutorials, gaming streams, and more. With its wide-reaching appeal, YouTube has captured the hearts of audiences, particularly among the younger demographic.
These creators have not only amassed massive followings but have also turned their passion into lucrative careers, earning millions through advertising revenue and features like Super Chat. The allure of becoming a YouTuber has cemented its status as one of the most sought-after professions in today’s digital age.
As we delve into the realm of Japanese social media, it becomes evident that YouTube holds the key to understanding the nation’s trends and entertainment preferences. This is why we’ve curated a list of the top 10 Japanese YouTubers for 2024, not based solely on subscriber counts, but on the results of a popularity poll conducted within Japan. Through this ranking, we aim to shed light on the captivating world of Japanese YouTube and uncover what truly resonates with audiences in this dynamic digital landscape.
Top 10 Japanese YouTubers 2024
1. Hajime (はじめしゃちょー)
Hajime Syacho, known as Hajime, is a popular Japanese YouTuber who has captivated a wide audience with his diverse range of content. His channel features a variety of entertaining videos spanning from daily life vlogs and travel adventures to challenge videos and gaming commentary. Hajime’s unique humor and innovative ideas contribute to his distinctive charm, consistently providing viewers with laughter and surprises.
Beyond simply entertaining, Hajime occasionally addresses social issues and themes, sparking thoughtful discussions among his audience. His candid opinions and perspectives further strengthen his influence and appeal to his growing fan base.
In addition to his YouTube presence, Hajime actively participates in television programs and events, expanding his reach beyond Japan to international audiences. With his career still blossoming, there’s great anticipation for the continued creativity and talent Hajime brings to the digital world.
2. Fisher’s (フィッシャーズ)
The Fisher’s, commonly referred to as “Fischer’s,” is a renowned Japanese YouTube group consisting of five members: Kentaro Kobayashi, Ryuya Kato, Yusuke Inoue, Shota Fuji, and Taku Matsumura. Since its inception, Fischer’s has amassed a devoted following due to its dynamic and entertaining content.
The group’s YouTube channel features a diverse range of videos, including comedic skits, challenges, gaming content, and vlogs showcasing their daily lives and adventures. With each member bringing their unique personality and talents to the table, Fischer’s has cultivated a distinct brand of humor and camaraderie that resonates with audiences of all ages.
One of Fischer’s notable strengths lies in its ability to adapt to trends and continually innovate its content, ensuring freshness and relevance in the fast-paced world of YouTube. Beyond their individual contributions, the chemistry and synergy among the members contribute to the group’s enduring popularity.
Fischer’s has not only found success on YouTube but has also ventured into various other media platforms, including television appearances and live events, further solidifying their status as influential figures in Japanese entertainment. As they continue to evolve and expand their reach, Fischer’s remains a dominant force in the Japanese YouTube landscape, beloved by fans for their infectious energy and boundless creativity.
3. HikakinTV (ヒカキンTV)
HikakinTV is a prominent Japanese YouTube channel owned and operated by Hikakin, whose real name is Hikaru Kaihatsu. Hikakin gained widespread recognition for his beatboxing skills before transitioning into content creation on YouTube.
HikakinTV offers a diverse array of content, ranging from vlogs documenting his daily life and travels to entertaining challenges, gaming videos, and collaborations with other popular YouTubers. His engaging personality and infectious enthusiasm have endeared him to millions of viewers, making his channel one of the most subscribed and viewed in Japan.
What sets HikakinTV apart is Hikakin’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality, entertaining content while staying true to his roots as a beatboxer. His innovative approach to content creation, combined with his natural charisma, has garnered him a loyal fan base both in Japan and internationally.
Beyond YouTube, Hikakin has expanded his presence into various other ventures, including music production, merchandise sales, and television appearances. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his craft continue to propel him to new heights of success in the digital entertainment industry.
4. Kiyo (キヨ。)
Kiyo is a prominent figure in the Japanese gaming community, renowned as a game commentator, YouTuber, and entertainer. He predominantly uploads gaming commentary videos on platforms such as YouTube and Nico Nico Douga. Since establishing his YouTube channel in 2014, Kiyo has amassed over 4.6 million subscribers, making him the top game commentator in terms of subscribers. He is also a member of the gaming commentary group “Saikyo Heki Oretachi.”
Hailing from Hokkaido, Kiyo is known for his lively and high-energy commentary style. However, during lengthy recording sessions, he sometimes struggles to maintain his energy levels and resorts to speaking in a more casual tone. He also occasionally remains silent while playing games, especially when facing defeat or encountering challenging sections, a practice he often includes unedited in his videos.
Kiyo’s commentary is characterized by frequent use of derogatory language, vulgar remarks, and adult humor. Despite this, he is known for his earnest personality and often displays kindness, particularly towards younger viewers and mothers. While his commentary is loud and boisterous, his personal life is described as relatively reserved, with Kiyo being notably quieter off-camera compared to his on-screen persona.
In a video featuring the members of the TOP4 gaming commentary group, Kiyo was singled out as the individual whose demeanor differs the most between his public videos and private life, highlighting the stark contrast between his energetic commentary and his more subdued personal demeanor.
5. Banbanzai (ばんばんざい)
Banbanzai is a Japanese YouTuber group consisting of three members: Gishi, Miyu, and Runa. They are known for their entertaining videos centered around pranks, eating challenges, and various comedic antics. In addition to their video content, Banbanzai also frequently releases original music as a music unit, showcasing their talents beyond the realm of YouTube.
Their original music releases often garner significant attention, demonstrating their versatility as artists. Alongside their original compositions, Banbanzai also posts cover songs, showcasing their vocal abilities and expanding their repertoire.
Banbanzai’s channel has become a hub for fans seeking both laughter and musical enjoyment. Their collaborative dynamic and playful camaraderie shine through in their videos, creating a welcoming atmosphere for viewers to immerse themselves in.
Beyond their YouTube endeavors, Banbanzai is actively engaged in various activities, including live performances and appearances at events. Their multifaceted approach to content creation has solidified their status as not only successful YouTubers but also versatile entertainers in the Japanese entertainment industry.
6. Sky Peace (スカイピース)
Sky Peace is a Japanese male duo of YouTubers, known for their blend of pop, hip-hop, and pop-rap music. Formed on July 15, 2016, the duo is signed to Sony Music Labels under Sony Music Records. Their official fan club is named “School Of Skypeace.”
The name “Sky Peace” was coined by Teo-kun, one half of the duo, who enjoyed images of “peace signs in the sky.” These images often featured the sky as a backdrop, symbolizing a sense of interconnectedness among people. Additionally, the duo has expressed their desire to be a source of smiles and positivity for their audience.
Their signature greeting, “Seyno, thank you very much, Sky Peace! Yeah!” reflects their energetic and enthusiastic approach to content creation.
Sky Peace was formed when Teo and ☆Ini☆ (Jin) began following each other on Twitter. Despite ☆Ini☆’s plans to join a real estate company after completing vocational school, Teo’s invitation led to the duo’s formation on July 15, 2016. Initially, they lived together in an apartment in Saitama Prefecture’s Tokorozawa City.
Even before forming Sky Peace, Teo and ☆Ini☆ regularly posted videos featuring parody songs and original compositions. They have collaborated with other creators such as Miyakawa Daisei in the “Temiji” series, formed the creator group “Seishun Shuwashuwa Club” with Kasu and Maata, and collaborated with Mizutamari Bond and Orutana Channel in the “Orutamari Peace” series.
Currently, both of their channels are updated irregularly. Since September 2020, they have been hosting their first regular show titled “Sky Peace’s Rising Academy.” In June 2020, they left their management agency, VAZ.
In February 2023, Teo-kun announced his relationship with the influencer Kato Noa. Sky Peace continues to captivate audiences with their diverse talents and engaging content, solidifying their status as prominent figures in the Japanese entertainment industry.
7. P Maru-sama (P丸様)
P maru-sama is a multi-entertainer active on video-sharing platforms such as YouTube and TikTok. He is best known for posting short animated videos where he provides voiceovers for original characters.
P maru-sama’s content primarily revolves around creating short anime-style animations featuring his original characters. Through his unique voice acting and comedic timing, he brings these characters to life, entertaining his audience with a blend of humor, creativity, and charm.
With a knack for storytelling and a distinct artistic style, P maru-sama has carved out a niche for himself in the online entertainment landscape. His videos captivate viewers with their whimsical narratives and vibrant personalities, earning him a dedicated following on both YouTube and TikTok.
Beyond his animated content, P maru-sama occasionally branches out into other forms of entertainment, including live streams, collaborations, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative process. As a versatile entertainer, he continues to delight audiences with his imaginative creations and infectious enthusiasm for storytelling.
8. Heisei Flamingo (平成フラミンゴ)
Heisei Flamingo is a popular female duo of YouTubers hailing from Japan, composed of members NICO and RIHO. Both members are represented by LIBERTYTOWN agency.
The duo made their debut on April 3, 2020, with their first video titled “The Women Who Can’t Get Married Because They’re Childhood Friends!” NICO and RIHO, having been friends since their first year of elementary school, bring a unique dynamic to their content, characterized by their long-standing relationship, witty banter, and candid style. Their authenticity and genuine interactions with each other resonate strongly with their audience, contributing to their popularity.
One notable aspect of Heisei Flamingo’s channel is the close bond they share with their viewers. Unlike other channels, their comment section fosters lively interaction among users, creating a sense of community and intimacy.
Since their inception, Heisei Flamingo has achieved significant milestones, reaching 1 million subscribers on September 22, 2021, 2 million subscribers on December 15, 2021, and 3 million subscribers on July 24, 2022. As of February 26, 2024, their channel boasts over 3.55 million subscribers.
Beyond YouTube, NICO and RIHO have expanded their activities into fashion modeling and comedy, participating in events such as Kansai Collection and Tokyo Girls Collection, as well as competing in the female comedian competition “THE W.” They have also ventured into television commercials and secured regular programs on AbemaTV, further solidifying their popularity.
On December 14, 2023, Heisei Flamingo made their debut as singers with the release of their original song “Super Heroine.” Additionally, on March 3, 2024, they premiered their own program titled “Itte Miyo!” Further demonstrating their versatility and enduring appeal in the entertainment industry.
9. Comdot (コムドット)
Comdot is a Japanese male quintet of YouTubers comprising members Yamato, Yuta, Yuma, Hyuga, and Amugiri. The group operates two channels: the main channel, “Comdot,” and the secondary channel, “Offdot.” Rather than being affiliated with any agency, the members established the company “BRDOCK,” with Yamato serving as the representative director.
Formed on October 1, 2018, all five members hail from Nishi-Tokyo City. They share a bond as childhood friends from their days in the Yagisawa Middle School basketball team. Led by Yamato, Comdot’s mission is to bring the local vibe to a national audience and extend the after-school atmosphere. The name “Comdot” derives from the widely recognized “.com” domain to make it memorable for viewers.
At the core of their activities on YouTube are bold and innovative projects that showcase the individual personalities of each member and their interactions. Their videos often feature appearances by friends from their hometown, as well as the beloved ramen restaurant “Ramen Ryu.” Notably, Ramen Ryu, located in Higashi-Fushimi, Nishi-Tokyo City, is famous for hosting the Waseda University sports ground in the area.
Comdot emphasizes communication through social media platforms. On Twitter, they share announcements and behind-the-scenes glimpses into their video shoots. One tweet, posted in December 2020, garnered significant attention with the phrase “Make way for others.” On Instagram, the members share updates on their activities, including live streams. In August 2021, they celebrated Yuta’s Instagram account becoming the most followed among Japanese YouTubers. They also utilize TikTok, posting dance videos and snippets from their YouTube content.
Comdot’s influence extends beyond YouTube and social media. They topped various trend rankings, such as being voted the most popular in the “Trendsetter” category by teens in MyNavi’s 2021 mid-year trend ranking and securing first place in the “YouTuber” and “TikToker” categories in RooMooN’s 2021 mid-year trend ranking for high school and college girls. Additionally, BitStar’s 2021 mid-year “Influencer Power Ranking” placed them third in the “Rising Channel Ranking” and fourth in the “Total YouTube Channel Views Ranking.”
In April 2021, they launched the apparel brand “Birdog.” In interviews regarding the brand’s establishment, they expressed a desire to create fashion items they would personally want to wear, aiming for a brand that goes beyond mere fan merchandise.
10. Tyonmage Kozou (ちょんまげ小僧)
Tyonmage Kozou is a group of six middle school students from Japan who have gained popularity as YouTubers. All members, including those behind the scenes, are classmates in their first year of middle school.
The group primarily focuses on uploading daily life videos, which they film and edit themselves within the group. They gained significant attention when they posted videos requesting that the faces of ordinary people be pixelated in their clip videos, eliciting a strong response from viewers.
One distinctive feature of their content is the introduction in their meat mincing videos, where they greet viewers with the phrase “hikiniku desu!” (It’s minced meat!) in a voice mixed with a falsetto tone, accompanied by a wide-arm pose. This signature greeting has garnered attention, inspiring the creation of music and sound MADs that utilize this phrase and pose. It has also been adopted in sports performances and parodied in corporate social media posts as “〇〇 meat!” In November 2023, “hikiniku desu!” was nominated as one of the top 30 new words and trending phrases for the “2023 U-CAN New Words and Trending Phrases Grand Prix” (selected by Jiyu Kokuminsha) and was selected as a nominated word for the “SNS Trending Phrase Grand Prix 2023” (selected by E-Guardian).
Summary
The landscape of Japanese social media marketing continues to evolve, with YouTube playing a pivotal role in shaping trends and influencing consumer behavior. In 2024, the top 10 Japanese YouTubers reflect the diverse and vibrant content ecosystem of the platform.
Leading the pack is Hajime, known for his engaging and innovative content, followed closely by Fisher’s and HikakinTV, who continue to captivate audiences with their unique styles and entertaining videos. Kiyo, Banbanzai, and Sky Peace also feature prominently, showcasing the popularity of gaming and comedy content among Japanese viewers.
Further down the list, P Maru-sama, Heisei Flamingo, Comdot, and Tyonmage Kozou round out the top 10, each bringing their own distinct flair and appeal to the YouTube landscape.
As YouTube remains a key platform for social media marketing in Japan, brands and marketers can leverage the influence of these top YouTubers to reach and engage with their target audiences effectively, driving brand awareness and fostering meaningful connections in the digital space.