Experiencing Japanese Comedy: How to Attend Yoshimoto Comedy Night in Tokyo

Nearly a decade ago, my husband and I became interested in the Japanese comedy show Documental. The premise is simple: comedians are locked in a room and forbidden from laughing. Their goal is to eliminate each other by making their opponents laugh. Nothing is off-limits, and frankly, it is remarkable that some of it made it to television. This show introduced us to the world of Japanese comedy, which, admittedly, is not easily accessible for those who do not speak the language.

So imagine my surprise and delight when I discovered Yoshimoto Comedy Night Tokyo, an English-friendly comedy show in Shibuya, I was eager to attend. The event offers foreigners a rare opportunity to experience Japanese comedy without a language barrier.

This guide provides information on how to attend Yoshimoto Comedy Night in Tokyo, what to expect, a review of a recent show, and practical tips for visitors.

What is Yoshimoto Comedy Night?

For those unfamiliar, Yoshimoto Kogyo is a leading entertainment company in Japan, established in 1912. It manages many of the country’s most well-known comedians, actors, musicians, and athletes. Several comedians featured on Documental are affiliated with Yoshimoto.

Because language is a significant barrier, the comedy nights rely heavily on visual humor, mime, and physical comedy, with minimal spoken dialogue. An English-speaking emcee hosts the event, but the individual performances are largely non-verbal, making the humor accessible to an international audience. Japanese spectators also attend, demonstrating the broad appeal of this style of comedy.

How to Attend

Location: Yoshimoto Mugendai Dome, 7th floor, Shibuya, Tokyo (also referred to as Yoshimoto Infinity Dome in English).
Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights.
Tickets: ¥3000, including one drink. Tickets are available through TripAdvisor for international visitors. Additional drinks and snacks are available for purchase. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
Seating: General admission; first come, first served.
Getting There: Yoshimoto Mugendai Dome is located approximately 0.3 miles from Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Shibuya Station, which serves JR trains, Tokyo Metro, and private railways. Shibuya is always busy, but it is especially crowded on Friday and Saturday nights, so plan accordingly.
Additional Option: Yoshimoto Comedy Night is also held in Osaka for those unable to attend in Tokyo.

What to Expect

The lineup changes regularly, ensuring a unique experience for each performance. While the featured comedians are not necessarily the biggest names in Japan, many have achieved recognition, particularly through international talent competitions.

The comedy acts are primarily non-verbal, though occasional English signage may be used.

A performance I attended in January 2025 featured performers like:

Kamiyama, a skilled performer specializing in sleight-of-hand and mime.
Kokoon & Nansui, presenting humorous, non-verbal sketches.
Wes-P, known for his comedic tablecloth tricks, often performed in the nude, as seen on international talent shows. Wes-P was the only performer who spoke fluent English and incorporated self-deprecating humor into his routine: “Can you believe this is what I have to do for a living?”

While there is no official age restriction, the content may not be suitable for young children. During the performance I attended, Wes-P acknowledged the presence of children in the audience and expressed mild discomfort about performing in front of them, though there was no full-frontal nudity.

Schedule

Doors open: 8:00 PM
Show starts: 8:30 PM
Ends: 9:40 PM (including a brief intermission)

This event is best suited for those who appreciate absurdist and slapstick comedy.

The only notable drawback was the insistence of staff members during the intermission that audience members leave online reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to speak Japanese to enjoy Yoshimoto Comedy Night?
No. The show is designed for non-Japanese speakers and relies on a combination of English and non-verbal comedy. Staff members speak enough English to facilitate drink and snack purchases.

When should I book tickets?
If you have a specific date in mind, it is advisable to book in advance. Tickets are non-refundable.

Are there English translations or subtitles?
There are no live translations, but some English text appears on a screen behind performers for context.

Is there a specific etiquette to follow?
Simply relax and enjoy the performance. Audience engagement is encouraged.

Final Thoughts

Yoshimoto Comedy Night provides a rare opportunity to experience Japanese comedy without a language barrier. For those visiting Tokyo on a weekend, it offers a unique and entertaining night out.

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