Akane-banashi Episode 1 Story & Preview Cuts Released: The Journey of Rakugo Storytellers Begins

The story and preview images for Episode 1 of the TV anime Akane-banashi (JP: あかね噺) have been revealed. This episode will air on Saturday, April 4 at 11:30 PM (JST), and will later be available on various international streaming platforms.

Episode 1 Story

Fifth grader Akane Osaki has grown up watching her father, the Rakugo storyteller Shinta Arakawa, and is completely captivated by the magical art of his performances. To support the family that stands behind his dreams, Shinta takes on the promotion exam for "Shin'uchi," the highest rank in the Rakugo world. While Akane and the others watch on, Shinta demonstrates his true skill. However, the promotion exam takes a shocking turn that no one could have ever anticipated.

Introduction

"Reach the pinnacle of art with nothing but your own body—

Since childhood, Akane Osaki grew up watching the back of her storyteller father, Shinta Arakawa. Enchanted by the magic of his rakugo, she witnessed a shocking incident during the most important performance of his career—the stage where he staked everything on his promotion to shin'uchi.

Six years later—Akane has become a high schooler, charging forward with a single-minded goal: to reach the highest rank in the rakugo world, the ""Shin'uchi"".

A true-to-life rakugo story, where storytellers hone their skills and clash at the absolute height of the narrative arts—begins here!! "

Akane-banashi Characters List

Spring 2026 Anime List

Source : Akane-banashi Official