The “National Treasures” representing the Reiwa era will gather at MoN Takanawa. A one-night-only, spectacular yose performance is set to take place.
A spectacular variety show featuring Japan’s traditional storytelling arts (Rakugo, Rokyoku, Kōdan, etc.)
Japan’s traditional performing arts have a long history, and the world of storytelling encompasses a variety of genres.
This performance brings together the three major storytelling arts—Kōdan, Rakugo, and Rokyoku—along with the Gidayū-bushi style of Jōruri, allowing you to experience the opulent world of a traditional “yose” (storytelling hall).
Four Living National Treasures—Koyama Yukie-waka (Rokyoku), Gokaido Unsuke (Rakugo), Tsurusawa Tsukasu (Gidayu, on shamisen), and Kanda Shokoi (Kodan)—will perform together.
Kyoyama Yukie-waka
Born in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. He began his apprenticeship under his father, the First Generation, in 1971; he is the Second Generation. In 2024, he became the first person in the world of rokkoku to be designated a Living National Treasure. He is renowned for his lustrous, beautiful voice, his exceptional intonation, and his elegant movements, honed through training in Japanese classical dance. His performances are captivating, blending laughter and witty narration that resonate with modern audiences while still cherishing the classics. He is also actively engaged in nurturing young talent and is dedicated to the revival of rokkoku.
Gokaido Unsuke
Born in Sumida Ward, Tokyo. He is the sixth-generation master of his lineage. He began his apprenticeship under the 10th-generation Kanharatei Bao in 1968; his performances, which embody the essence of Edo, have earned him the reputation as “the storyteller whom other storytellers aspire to be.”Designated a Living National Treasure in 2023. With his breathtaking descriptive power, he tackles a wide range of material—from comic tales and long-form human-interest stories to original works—while also dedicating himself to rediscovering classics such as the works of Enchō. He is also highly regarded as a renowned mentor for nurturing the next generation of storytellers.
Tsukasa Tsurusawa
Born in Tokyo. In 1984, he became a disciple of Takemoto Komanosuke and studied the shamisen under the 4th-generation Nozawa Kinshi. In 1986, he inherited the childhood name Tsugaju from Komanosuke’s mother-in-law, Tsurusawa Sansei, and made his stage debut at Honmokutei.In 2022, she received the ENEOS Music Award (Traditional Japanese Music category) and was designated a Living National Treasure that same year. With skill backed by solid technique, she pursues the expressive potential of the ta-sō shamisen. She is also dedicated to training the next generation and contributing to the development of female Gidayū performers.
Kanda Shōko
Born in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture. He is the third-generation master of his lineage. He began his apprenticeship under the second-generation Kanda Sanyo in 1970. He was designated a Living National Treasure in 2019. His appeal lies in his dignified and refined delivery, as well as his exceptional expressiveness in delicately portraying the emotions of his characters. His artistic style preserves the classics while retaining a freshness that resonates with the modern era.Through his wide-ranging activities—including actively mentoring younger artists and collaborating on the adaptation of the kōdan stories “Arakawa Jutayu,” “Tawara Hoshi Genba,” and “The Rise of the Illiterate” into kabuki plays—he is driving the current popularity of kōdan.
All attendees will receive a complimentary special hand towel. Don’t miss this luxurious evening where you can savor the finest storytelling and narration of our time.
