Enjoy Rakugo, Japan’s traditional comic art

Rakugo, a traditional Japanese performing art, originated among the common people about 400 years ago. It is not merely a comic solo play in which a single performer portrays many roles; sitting in place without any stage sets and using only simple props such as a hand towel and a folding fan, the storyteller expresses everything—making rakugo a uniquely singular comedy form in the world.

In addition to rakugo, the program features daily performances of Japanese magic and taikagura (traditional Japanese juggling). Live accompaniment by traditional Japanese instruments—shamisen, taiko, and flute—enhances the performances. Three‑language subtitles in English, Chinese, and Korean will be provided.

Project Inauguration

Since 2000, performances of Kamigata rakugo with subtitles have been presented overseas, conveying the joy of this Osaka‑style rakugo to more than 20 countries, including the UK, the US, France, Germany, Russia, Bulgaria, Belgium, Norway, South Korea, Canada, Turkey, Vietnam, and Cambodia. With growing numbers of inbound tourists and limited global awareness of rakugo—a comedy form without equal—the project introduces this popular Japanese art to international visitors using simultaneous three‑language subtitles in English, Chinese, and Korean.

Project Activities

Main performer Katsura Koharudanji (Katsura Koharu‑danji) has performed in more than 20 countries using his unique subtitling method, earning acclaim across the UK, US, France, Germany, Bulgaria, Belgium, Norway, South Korea, Russia, Finland, Turkey, Canada, and more. He is the only rakugo storyteller to have performed at the United Nations headquarters in New York and at Carnegie Hall. He has also been appointed by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs as a Cultural Exchange Envoy and was selected by Newsweek as one of “100 Japanese People the World Respects.”

Future Prospects for the EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai

With the EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai bringing more tourists to Osaka, there is an opportunity to introduce international visitors to Osaka’s popular culture beyond food and shopping. The project aims to let overseas guests experience Osaka’s comedic spirit through Kamigata rakugo—a form of popular Osaka culture—so they feel even closer to the city.