Yose (Rakugo Performance) - Japanese Storytelling

A yose is an establishment where you can watch traditional Japanese entertainment, centered around rakugo.

Rakugo: Japanese Storytelling

Rakugo is a form of storytelling that started in the Edo period (1603-1868). It's a one-man act in which the performer sits on a stage and tells humorous stories based on fairytales or everyday life.

Phoro from Rakugo – Japanese Storytelling and Where to Find It in Tokyo

In order to tell the story, the performers act through gestures with their upper body and express themselves through changing their tone of voice or facial expression. They don't use any large props in their acts. Only fans and traditional hand towels are used in order to represent many different objects. For this reason, artists must be expressive and have excellent storytelling skills.

Experience Japanese Comedy at a Yose

Yose are facilities where visitors can enjoy rakugo performances, as well as other performing arts such as manzai (a comedic double act exchanging jokes and quips), mandan (a comic monologue), magic acts, and paper cutting crafts.

With the combination of rakugo and other acts, one performance lasts around three hours. Entrance fees, called kidosen, cost around 2,500 yen to 3,000 yen. Tickets are normally valid only on the day of purchase, and seats are not reserved.

Photo from Rakugo – Japanese Storytelling and Where to Find It in Tokyo

Many of those who visit yose are long-time fans of rakugo. For first-timers, it may be difficult to follow the story or know when to laugh. However, the charming building, unique atmosphere, and variety of acts that change every fifteen to thirty minutes make for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.