Rakugo Meets Beautiful Girl Battles
In 2006, a truly unique anime aired on TV Saitama and other stations: Rakugo Tennyo Oyui. This was no ordinary show—it was a full-blown beautiful girl battle anime infused with the traditional Japanese art of rakugo. Created by professional rakugo storyteller Katsura Wakajaku, the series was produced as a 75th anniversary project with full cooperation from the Rakugo Art Association.
The story follows a young girl named Tsukishima Yui, a rakugo enthusiast who dreams of becoming a disciple of a master. She and five other girls are transported back in time to the Edo period, where they must battle demons and monsters as celestial maidens known as “tennyo.” The twist? Their powers are fueled by actual rakugo stories and incantations. For example, one of the tennyo types, the “Kotodama Tennyo” (Word Spirit Maiden), uses phrases from the classic rakugo piece “Jugemu” like “Yaburakouji no burakouji,” and the spell “Ajara mokuren kyuraiso tegeretsu no pa” from the rakugo “Shinigami” to repel the demon of death.
Enemies are drawn from Japanese folklore and rakugo tales, including the giant skeleton from the ukiyo-e “Soma no Furudairi,” the “Nukesuzume” (Escape Sparrow), and the ghost story “Botan Doro.” The attention to detail is staggering.
Real Rakugo Stars Make Cameos
Perhaps the most delightful surprise for fans of rakugo is that master storytellers Katsura Utamaru and Sanyutei Kosanji appear as themselves—and they’ve been given a cool “ikeoji” makeover! Other rakugo performers also appear in minor roles, showing just how deeply the Rakugo Art Association was involved. When the series was released on DVD, it was even advertised on the long-running variety show “Shoten.”
Why a Rakugo Anime Turns into a Battle Show
It may seem strange that a rakugo-affiliated project became a beautiful girl battle anime, but creator Katsura Wakajaku is a major anime fan. His interest in anime was sparked by Sakura Wars, and he even wrote a serialized column about it in Animedia magazine. As a result, Rakugo Tennyo Oyui carries a distinct Sakura Wars flavor, complete with recurring character Hiraga Gennai and giant mechanical contraptions.
The year 2006 was a time when late-night anime had become firmly established, and magazines like Megami Magazine were flourishing. So perhaps the association simply thought, “That’s how anime is.” Looking back, it was a remarkably bold project. Part of the fun is spotting the rakugo references and looking them up.
Memorable Opening Theme
The opening theme “Sakura Saku” is performed by the Akihabara-style anime band Little Non. The song features a lively rhythm incorporating three-beat patterns and uplifting lyrics that encourage viewers. Vocalist Nagano Nozomi’s clear voice is distinctive, and the band’s live performances are known for their powerful, humorous energy. Little Non also contributed to the anime Kodomo no Jikan (ending theme “Hanamaru☆Senseation”) and Battle Spirits: Shounen Toppa Bashin (ending theme “Bouken Kiroku”).
With its blend of Sakura Wars-style charm and deep rakugo roots, Rakugo Tennyo Oyui is a show worth rediscovering. It is currently available for streaming on D Anime Store and other platforms. Why not give it a watch while celebrating the 60th anniversary of Shoten?
