Succession of Myoseki `names` from one's predecessor is a system or custom unique to Japanese and often seen to occur in entertainment and accomplished art circles (including kabuki, and `rakugo` comic storytelling), which maintain `iemoto` systems (where the teaching and handing down of such traditional Japanese arts/pursuits is licensed).
名跡の襲名は歌舞伎や落語等の寄席演芸、家元制度を採る各種の芸能、芸道に多く見られる、日本独特の制度・慣習の一種である。