Part 1 is a short version of Japanese traditional vaudeville show “Yose”.

The opening performance is “Kodan” which is a professional storytelling of traditional Japanese tales that dates back to the 17th century. Popular themes are the Japanese historical dramas such as exploits of warriors, stories of civil wars and vengeance. It once was more popular than “Rakugo”, a comic storytelling art which is very popular these days. After suffering a long period of declining popularity, it has regained its power thanks to the vibrant appearance of lady storytellers, who comprises about a half of the whole Kodan storytellers today.
ICHIRYUSAI Teiju is one of the promising young Kodan storytellers.

Next comes the “Kyokugoma”, a traditional stage act using tops. The performance of course is fun to watch, but notice also the beautiful tools, the traditional tops. They, too, are pieces of art !!

The main part of the show comes the last, the “Rakugo” performance. Rakugo is a Japanese traditional comic story-telling, reflecting the bittersweet sentiments of the common people.
YANAGIYA Kyotaro is a talented disciple of YANAGIYA Sankyo who is an expert in Ninjobanashi, or stories with sentimental, human interest.

Part 2 features beautiful traditional dances performed by geisha dancers from six entertainment districts in Tokyo. The music will be played by geisha musicians.
There will be a demonstration of “Ozashiki-asobi”, a game played with geisha in “ozashiki”, a place to hold private banquets in a traditional Japanese style.
There also will be a comic performance by “Hokan”, a professional male entertainer.

*English audio guides are available.