The TV anime Akane Banashi is officially returning for a second season, which will begin airing in January 2027. Alongside the announcement, a new promotional video and a celebratory illustration have been released, as well as details on additional cast members and a special rakugo event.
Based on the manga by Suehiro Yuki (story) and Bajou Takasuke (art), serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump, Akane Banashi takes the traditional art of rakugo and injects it with intense human drama and dynamic storytelling, winning over a broad audience. The series boldly overturns the notion that rakugo is difficult and quiet.
Season 2 will adapt the “zensa shugyou” (apprentice training) arc. After graduating high school, protagonist Sakurazaki Akane is finally accepted as a formal disciple of Arakawa Shiguma, taking the stage name “Arakawa Akane” as she begins her journey toward becoming a rakugo performer. The story follows her relentless pursuit of the highest rank, “shin’uchi” (true master).
To celebrate the second season, character designer and chief animation director Tanaka Kinu-e has drawn a special illustration featuring Akane, Karashi, and Hikaru — rivals who clashed in the student rakugo tournament “Karaku Cup.”
Celebration illustration for Akane Banashi Season 2
Additionally, the voice cast for six new characters who first appeared in the twelfth episode, “Graduation,” has been announced:
Kashiya Sanroku (CV: Ootsuka Houchuu)
Tsubakiya Masaaki (CV: Okiayu Ryoutarou)
Sanmyoutei Enshou (CV: Naka Hiroshi)
Arisaka Uraura (CV: Tamura Mutsumi)
Kenpuutei Ryuun (CV: Miki Shin’ichirou)
Konsekitei Chouasa (CV: Seki Tomokazu)
Cast Comments
Kashiya Sanroku (CV: Ootsuka Houchuu)
“I have been given the role of Kashiya Sanroku in this work. He is a ‘Living National Treasure’ and the top ‘shin’uchi’ at the head of the largest faction — a very weighty character. I feel a sense of tension and nervousness, but I will do my utmost. I humbly ask for your support.”
Tsubakiya Masaaki (CV: Okiayu Ryoutarou)
“I have been entrusted with the role of Tsubakiya Masaaki. It is an honor to play a master rakugo performer. I immediately went to Suehirotei for the first time. In the original story, there are scenes far ahead that involve that venue. I’ve also read the entire manga! I’ll build up my excitement while watching the broadcast.”
Sanmyoutei Enshou (CV: Naka Hiroshi)
“I will be playing the rakugo performer Sanmyoutei Enshou. I wondered who the model was, and when I looked it up, I was surprised to find it was Sanyuutei Enshou! That’s because Enshou is my favorite rakugo artist. I personally own several DVDs of his performances. Among them, the ‘Kurihashi Station’ segment from Kaidan Botan Dourou is especially captivating. The scene where Omine treats the horse driver Kyuuzou to sake and draws out his master’s affair is a highlight! The way he drinks tea with a lid at the beginning is also full of flavor and a pleasure to watch. ‘Shinigami’ is also great. If you’re interested, please check it out.”
Arisaka Uraura (CV: Tamura Mutsumi)
“I will be playing Arisaka Uraura. Master Uraura is not only beautiful and glamorous, but also has the determination and intensity of someone who stakes her life on her art. I am working carefully in the recording booth to convey her dignified strength and allure. I’m nervous about the rakugo practice, but I’m also looking forward to it! I’ll do my best to deliver a wonderful Master Uraura.”
Kenpuutei Ryuun (CV: Miki Shin’ichirou)
“When I was a child, I loved watching rakugo on TV. I am very happy and excited to be able to participate in that world as the voice of one of the characters. Please look forward to it.”
Konsekitei Chouasa (CV: Seki Tomokazu)
“I am Seki Tomokazu, in charge of Konsekitei Chouasa. I love rakugo, and I’ve been watching the show live since the first episode (laughs). The human drama is intense, and there are parts that overlap with my own rookie days, so I’ve been drawn in every week! As one of the unique rakugo performers, I will give my all to deliver Chouasa’s charm. Please look forward to the broadcast.”
Furthermore, a rakugo event featuring the series’ rakugo supervisor Hayashiya Kikuhisa and other prominent performers has been announced. It is possible that Anna Nagase (voice of Sakurazaki Akane) will also perform rakugo. Ticket sale details will be announced at a later date.
“Akane Banashi” Shinjuku Suehirotei Late-Night Yose
Akane Banashi TV anime Season 2 begins broadcasting in January 2027.
(C) Suehiro Yuki, Bajou Takasuke / Shueisha, “Akane Banashi” Production Committee
