Celebrate 150 Years of Ise-yu with Traditional Rakugo Classes

A New Chapter Celebrating 150 Years of Ise-yu

Ise-yu, a renowned kimono shop located on Kōbun street in Ginza, Tokyo, has proudly passed down the art of "Edo no Iki" (the essence of Edo) since its establishment in 1878. As Ise-yu approaches its milestone of 150 years in operation, it is embarking on a significant project to further promote traditional Japanese culture through the opening of a dedicated learning space for Japanese arts.

This initiative aims to offer a deeper connection to kimono-wearing habits while immersing participants in the rich traditions of Japanese performing arts. The first program to launch under this initiative is a series of rakugo classes taught by the esteemed rakugo performer, San'yutei Rakumaro, a member of the 5th generation Enraku Ichimonkai.

About the Rakugo Classes

The rakugo classes, titled "Learn and Experience Rakugo", are co-hosted by the Ginza Kōbun Rakugo Association and Ise-yu. Participants will have the unique opportunity to receive direct instruction from a professional storyteller, culminating in a performance that mimics the authenticity of a rakugo theatre experience.

Schedule and Class Structure

The classes will run over six sessions:
1. December 14, 2025: Introduction to rakugo basics, including fundamental moves and usage of props.
2. December 21, 2025: Instruction on the first half of the selected rakugo story.
3. January 11, 2026: Instruction on the second half of the story.
4. January 25, 2026: A rehearsal of the performance.
5. February 1, 2026: Full dress rehearsal before the final performance.
6. February 15, 2026: Grand performance showcase.

Note: The class schedule may be subject to change based on the availability of the instructor.
All props used, such as fans and hand towels, will be provided for participants. Participants are encouraged to don yukata or kimono for the final performance. Assistance is available for those looking to purchase traditional attire.

Class Details

- Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM (approximately one hour per session)
- Performance pieces: Participants can choose to perform traditional pieces such as "Konoho," "Jugemu," or "Manju Kawai," which are typically taught to newcomers in rakugo.
- Venue: 2nd Floor of Ise-yu, located at 8-8-19 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo.
- Cost: The total fee for six sessions is 36,000 yen (6,000 yen per session).
- Capacity: Class size is limited to 10 participants, welcoming individuals from children to adults.

Registration

To enroll, please contact us by phone (070-9342-2510) or email ([email protected]) by December 10, 2025.

Meet the Instructor: San'yutei Rakumaro

San'yutei Rakumaro, born in 1963, has been recognized in the rakugo world since 1982 when he entered the 5th generation of the San'yutei Enraku lineage. He achieved the title of "Shin’uchi" in 1991 and has been actively involved in various media, including NHK Radio, promoting the art of rakugo.

Rakumaro expresses his passion for this art: "There's nothing quite like making people laugh through storytelling; it's incredibly rewarding. I invite everyone to explore the joy of sharing laughter through the learning of classical rakugo at Ise-yu in Ginza!"

Closing Thoughts from Ise-yu

Wada, the fifth generation and current owner of Ise-yu, reflects on the significance of the location: "Ginza, where Ise-yu resides, ties back to the Edo period when it was a haven for traditional art forms. By establishing this school, we hope to provide a wonderful opportunity for the community to engage with traditional culture and foster a closer relationship with kimono wearing."