In rakugo, which dates back 300 years to the Edo Period (1603-1868), a lone storyteller sits on stage and tells a pun-laden tale that ends with a punch line. The stories re-create conversations between people -- often with two main characters, one sharp and the other a half-wit.
"Rakugo is an art form unique to Japan . . . and it reflects the fact that Japanese usually say humorous things in the course of dialogue.The tales can also illustrate Japanese culture and customs."
For instance, if storytellers make slurping noises when they pretend to eat noodles, the foreign audience can understand that such behavior is acceptable in Japan, unlike in Western countries...
Reference : Japan Times