History Enthusiast Comedian Shuji Okuda Presents Original Interpretation of "Taira no Masakado"! "Walking Outside the Textbook! Gakuten Sokuda's Historical Chatter" Airs April 5 (Sun) at 10:00 PM

A new program, "Walking Outside the Textbook! Gakuten Sokuda's Historical Chatter," where history enthusiast comedian Shuji Okuda (Gakuten Sokuda) discusses "the fascinating aspects of history not covered in textbooks," will be broadcast on BS Yoshimoto for two consecutive weeks, April 5 (Sunday) and April 12 (Sunday), starting at 10:00 PM.

Rediscover History with Okuda's Unconventional "Chatter"

This program is a historical variety show where Okuda visits places associated with great figures, such as statues and historical sites, and shares his knowledge. As Okuda himself states, "I'm just an amateur who loves history, so if you want correct information, please do your own research," he freely re-examines historical events from an original perspective, incorporating imagination and conjecture. The theme of the first episode, broadcast for two consecutive weeks, is "Taira no Masakado is amazing!" While Taira no Masakado's story often ends in a few lines about the "Taira no Masakado Rebellion" in school textbooks, Okuda's unique interpretation reveals a completely different historical figure, far removed from the dark image of one of Japan's Three Great Vengeful Ghosts.

"Another Image of Masakado" Narrated in Kanda

The recording took place at two locations in Kanda, Tokyo: the cultural heritage site "Kanda no Ie Imasa" and Kanda Myojin (Kanda Shrine), the Edo's general guardian shrine, which enshrines Lord Masakado as its deity. Okuda delivers a non-stop monologue, starting from the story of Masakado's grandfather, Taira no Takamochi, and explaining "why Masakado came to rebel against the Imperial Court." A man who was angered by corrupt officials, stood up for the oppressed, and sought to protect his loved ones—his life story is a drama that signals the dawn of the samurai era. Okuda's explanation of "why he might actually have been a really good person" and his exploration of pivotal moments, which could be called "dark turn points," are sure to naturally change your perception of Masakado. Furthermore, as you listen to his chatter, you will gain a deeper understanding of the origins of the Taira and Minamoto clans and the relationship between samurai and the Imperial Court at the time. This program can be enjoyed not only by history buffs but also by those who have previously struggled with history. Please enjoy "Okuda-style new interpretations of history" that extend beyond textbooks.

【Program Information】

Walking Outside the Textbook! Gakuten Sokuda's Historical Chatter #1

Broadcast Channel: BS Yoshimoto (BS265ch)

Broadcast Date and Time: April 5, 2026 (Sunday) 10:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Performer: Shuji Okuda (Gakuten Sokuda)

How to Watch: 【TV】 BS265ch (Free Broadcast)

【Catch-up Streaming】 https://video.bsy.co.jp/ (Free Streaming)

Program HP: https://bsy.co.jp/programs/by0000023924

Keywords: Yoshimoto Kogyo, Gakuten Sokuda