#MoN Takanawa #Traditional Arts #Human National Treasures

Celebrating Japan's Heritage: The MoN Takanawa Experience

On March 28, 2026, the MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives will open its doors in Takanawa Gateway City. This experimental cultural museum, operated by the East Japan Railway Company's Cultural Creation Foundation, aims to connect Japan's traditional arts with the future through its inaugural program, MoN Yosai: National Treasure – Spoken Arts and Storytelling. This special program reflects the museum’s mission, “Life as Culture,” and serves as a bridge to future generations.

A Grand Showcase of Masterful Arts

Japan boasts a rich history of traditional performance arts encompassing various genres of storytelling and spoken word, including Rakugo, Kodan, Rokyoku, and Gidayu. The upcoming event will showcase these four esteemed art forms through a collaborative performance unlike any previous, featuring renowned Living National Treasures who epitomize the pinnacle of these crafts.

The legends gracing this stage include Gokaido Kumosuke (Rakugo), Kanda Shouri (Kodan), Kyoyama Koushiwaki (Rokyoku), and Tsurusawa Tsugaji (Gidayu). Attendees will enjoy an exquisite evening filled with the finest expressions of Japan's traditional arts in the state-of-the-art theatre, Box1000. It is our hope that everyone gets the opportunity to witness this extraordinary event.

Introductions to the Performers

Rakugo by Gokaido Kumosuke

• - Profile: Hailing from Sumida, Tokyo, Kumosuke is a sixth-generation Rakugo performer. He began his journey under the guidance of the esteemed Kimpotei Bashou in 1968, earning a reputation as a “Rakugo performer admired by other performers.” Newly recognized as a Living National Treasure in 2023, his versatility encompasses humorous tales to intricate long narratives. He’s also lauded for his dedication to nurturing the next generation of performers.
• - Comment: “I’m honored to perform at the MoN Yosai in Takanawa. The gathering of four Living National Treasures adds significance, but we will present our arts as usual. This rare opportunity to compare the four forms of entertainment promises to be enlightening and delightful. I hope to vividly portray the joys and sorrows of Edo, allowing you to feel the era's breeze in this cutting-edge venue. Please come with a relaxed spirit!