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Akane-banashi

Akane-banashi

Season 1

2026

Akane Osaki, captivated since childhood by the magical performances of her father, Shinta Arakawa, witnesses a shocking incident during his decisive performance for promotion to shin'uchi (master rank). Six years later, now a high school student, she sets her sights on becoming a shin'uchi herself—pushing forward in the highly competitive world of rakugo.

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  • E1 · 25 min

    That Day

    Young girl Akane Osaki falls in love with rakugo comic storytelling through watching her father perform. One day, a shocking event derails his career.

  • E2 · 25 min

    First Performance

    Hearing that Master Shiguma is secretly meeting with a young girl, Futatsume Guriko investigates and finds him teaching Akane at a karaoke parlor.

  • E3 · 25 min

    Senior Apprentices

    Akane joins Shiguma's school as an apprentice. The earnest Kyoji Arakawa is tasked with guiding her, but she finds herself stuck doing menial chores.

  • E4 · 25 min

    Beyond Joy

    Akane performs at a nursing home, displaying all she has learned. Kyoji goes next, determined to show her his skill as her elder fellow apprentice.

  • E5 · 25 min

    Her Path Forward

    Akane gets career counseling from her teacher Iwashimizu, known as the Ice Lady, who refuses to acknowledge Akane's dream of becoming a Rakugoka.

  • E6 · 25 min

    Terakoya

    After learning that Issho will judge the annual student Rakugo championship, Akane gains Shiguma's permission to compete — but on one condition.

  • E7 · 25 min

    Karaku Cup

    At the Karaku Cup preliminaries, all eyes are on defending champion Karashi and rising voice actor Hikaru Koragi, but Kaisei picks Akane to win.

  • E8 · 25 min

    What They Want

    As the Karaku Cup finals begin, Karashi wins over the crowd with his bold adapted Rakugo, but head judge Issho's verdict remains to be seen.

  • E9 · 25 min

    Performer

    At the Karaku Cup finals, Hikaru Koragi performs a sentimental story to prove she is more than just a pretty face. Next, Akane takes the stage.

  • E10 · 25 min

    Jugemu

    Akane's performance of "Jugemu" takes a subdued approach, providing a pleasant respite for the spectators caught up in the excitement of the contest.

  • E11 · 25 min

    Answer

    Following Akane's bold question, the shrewd Issho makes the reporters leave the room, then reveals the truth about the expulsion incident.

  • E12 · 25 min

    Graduation

    Akane's Karaku Cup win draws attention at school. As graduation nears, her friends chase their own dreams, and Shiguma ponders a stage name for her.