Akane-banashi: Season 1
Akane-banashi is an anime television series produced by Zexcs. The series premiered in April 2026 and concluded in June 2026. It is based on the story of Akane Osaki, a high school student who aims to become a shin'uchi, a master rank in the highly competitive world of rakugo. Akane's journey is inspired by her childhood fascination with the magical performances of her father, Shinta Arakawa. The series explores Akan
Season overview
Akane-banashi is an anime television series produced by Zexcs. The series premiered in April 2026 and concluded in June 2026. It is based on the story of Akane Osaki, a high school student who aims to become a shin'uchi, a master rank in the highly competitive world of rakugo. Akane's journey is inspired by her childhood fascination with the magical performances of her father, Shinta Arakawa. The series explores Akane's determination to reach the highest rank in rakugo. Viz Media has licensed the series for English release in North America. A second season of Akane-banashi is set to premiere in January 2027.
Episode Guide
Season 1 Progress Shield
That Day
Apr 4, 2026 · 25 min
Young girl Akane Osaki falls in love with rakugo comic storytelling through watching her father perform. One day, a shocking event derails his career.
First Performance
Apr 11, 2026 · 25 min
Hearing that Master Shiguma is secretly meeting with a young girl, Futatsume Guriko investigates and finds him teaching Akane at a karaoke parlor.
Senior Apprentices
Apr 19, 2026 · 25 min
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.
Beyond Joy
Apr 25, 2026 · 25 min
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.
Her Path Forward
May 2, 2026 · 25 min
Akane gets career counseling from her teacher Iwashimizu, known as the Ice Lady, who refuses to acknowledge Akane's dream of becoming a Rakugoka.
Terakoya
May 9, 2026 · 25 min
After learning that Issho will judge the annual student Rakugo championship, Akane gains Shiguma's permission to compete — but on one condition.
Karaku Cup
May 16, 2026 · 25 min
At the Karaku Cup preliminaries, all eyes are on defending champion Karashi and rising voice actor Hikaru Koragi, but Kaisei picks Akane to win.
What They Want
May 23, 2026 · 25 min
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.
Performer
May 30, 2026 · 25 min
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.
Jugemu
Jun 6, 2026 · 25 min
Akane's performance of "Jugemu" takes a subdued approach, providing a pleasant respite for the spectators caught up in the excitement of the contest.
Answer
Jun 13, 2026 · 25 min
Following Akane's bold question, the shrewd Issho makes the reporters leave the room, then reveals the truth about the expulsion incident.
Graduation
Jun 20, 2026 · 25 min
After winning the Karaku Cup, Akane suddenly finds herself in the spotlight at school. But unconvinced that her performance was good enough to blow Issho away, she has mixed feeli