Japanese YouTuber Hikaru is stepping into the world of rakugo, Japan’s traditional comic storytelling art. Veteran rakugo performer Tatekawa Shiraku has taken Hikaru on as a “kyakubun deshi,” a special guest-disciple status distinct from a formal apprenticeship, and the pair announced that Hikaru will make his debut performance on August 3 at Tokyo’s Meijiza theater under the stage name Tatekawa Sagishi. The show has been titled “Tatekawa Sagishi Dokuen-kai” (solo performance).
The unlikely partnership traces back to an online dispute over comments about veteran TV personality Tamori, which led to an impromptu YouTube discussion between Hikaru and Shiraku. According to the report, the conversation, expected to be tense, instead turned into mutual admiration, with Shiraku praising Hikaru’s talent for speech and command of language. Shiraku invoked his own late master, legendary rakugo performer Tatekawa Danshi, saying, “If Danshi were alive, he definitely would have loved Hikaru and found him fascinating.”
Following the talk, Hikaru attended one of Shiraku’s live rakugo performances and became captivated by the depth of the classical stories. He began giving his own informal “rakugo commentary” to friends and on his streams, which reportedly drew an enthusiastic response for being easy to understand and entertaining. Sensing the art form might suit him, Hikaru messaged Shiraku directly via LINE asking to become his disciple. Shiraku said he replied, “I’ve been waiting for those words,” and accepted immediately, resulting in the unusual guest-disciple arrangement.
In his comments on the announcement, Shiraku said: “I’ve decided to take on YouTuber Hikaru as my disciple. The way he picks fights in every direction, while being overconfident yet fearful underneath, reminds me exactly of myself when I was young. There will naturally be criticism, but it’s the role of elders to embrace the drive of talented young people, and I believe this can help save the declining world of rakugo.” Hikaru commented: “I never imagined I’d become a disciple of Master Shiraku and stand on the Meijiza stage. As a performer, I’m taking this challenge seriously. My ultimate goal is the Budokan.”
Who is Hikaru?
Hikaru is one of Japan’s best-known YouTubers, recognized for large-scale stunts, business-themed content, and collaborations across the Japanese entertainment industry. His outspoken online persona has made him a frequent topic of discussion and, at times, controversy on Japanese social media.
Who is Tatekawa Shiraku?
Tatekawa Shiraku is a veteran rakugo performer and television personality, known both for his stage performances of classical rakugo and for his frequent appearances as a commentator on Japanese variety and news programs. He was a disciple of the influential rakugo master Tatekawa Danshi.
