#Japan #Tokyo #Bukuro Rakugo #Yanagitei Kocharaku #Sakamoto Raiko

Bukuro's Rakugo 2026 Winter Event: A Unique Two-Person Show!

The Toshima Mirai Cultural Foundation, led by Chairman Naoto Aiba, is thrilled to announce the Bukuro's Rakugo 2026 Winter Event, featuring a remarkable two-person show with the esteemed storytellers Yanagitei Kocharaku and Sakamoto Raiko. This engaging performance series aims to highlight contemporary storytelling and engage audiences from all over Ikebukuro and beyond.

The concept of “Bukuro’s Rakugo” is centered on experiencing the vibrant art of storytelling within the heart of Ikebukuro. The event theme, ‘Understanding the Current State of Performing Arts in Ikebukuro’, reflects the dedication of the Toshima Mirai Cultural Foundation to enhance the community’s allure as a hub for performance arts. By attracting visitors from around the region, they aim to celebrate the rich cultural fabric of Toshima Ward.

During the inaugural event, attendees will witness an exciting collaboration of rakugo and katsu-benshi performances. Yanagitei Kocharaku, a renowned rakugo performer who has graced not just the stage but also various media platforms, will join forces with Sakamoto Raiko, the recipient of last year’s Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award for New Talent in the Popular Arts. Their unique synergy promises an unforgettable experience, so don't miss this chance to see these two artists collaborate for the first time!

Event Details:

• - Date: February 8, 2026 (Sunday)
• - Time: Doors open at 16:30, performance starts at 17:00
• - Venue: Toshima Community Center 8F Multipurpose Hall, 1-20-10 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo

Performers:

• - Yanagitei Kocharaku (Rakugo)
• - Sakamoto Raiko (Katsu-benshi)

Ticket Information:

• - Ticket Sales Start: October 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM
• - General Admission: 3,500 yen (incl. tax)
• - Toshima Citizen Discount: 3,300 yen (Advance purchase only / available at Toshima Ticket Center)
• - On-the-day Tickets: 4,000 yen

Note: Admission not permitted for children not yet in school. The Toshima Citizen Discount is available for residents, employees or students in Toshima Ward.

How to Purchase Tickets:

• - Toshima Ticket Center

- Phone: 0570-056-777 (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, temporary closures may apply)
- Web: Toshima Mirai Website (24/7)
- In-Person: Toshima Community Center 1F (10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, temporary closures may apply)

• - iPlus

- Web: iPlus Ticket Page
- In-Store: Family Mart

This inspiring event is proudly organized by the Toshima Mirai Cultural Foundation. For any inquiries related to this press release, please contact the Toshima Mirai Cultural Foundation's Project Planning Group at 03-3590-7118 on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.