On the 16th, the 'Yaoki Yosate', a unique performance venue organized by a yakiniku restaurant in Sagamihara's Minami Ward, reached its milestone of 700 shows since its inception forty years ago. The event was established to create opportunities for young rakugo performers, and has also hosted renowned comedians like Takaaki Natsuki. The current owner, Shozo Karasawa, expressed a desire to continue the event, aiming for a thousand performances, while ensuring that it remains a sustainable venture.

The 'Yaoki Yosate' is held once a month, taking place inside the restaurant in even months and at a nearby cultural hall in odd months, on the third Monday, when the restaurant is closed. The venture began in August 1986, inspired by an observation that young rakugo performers were struggling to find venues to perform. The restaurant's matriarch, Takiko, was encouraged by a friend’s comment about this lack of opportunities, leading her and her husband to agree on hosting the performances at their restaurant.

Over the years, 'Yaoki Yosate' has become a beloved local cultural event, contributing to the community's entertainment landscape by supporting up-and-coming talent and fostering a connection between performers and the audience. As the event continues to grow, the focus remains on nurturing the next generation of comedians in a supportive environment, aiming not just to entertain, but to preserve and promote the art of rakugo in Japan.