One of Japan’s Hidden Gems

Kochi’s most famous festival has to be Yosakoi! Held over 4 days from Aug 9~12, the whole of Kochi City is over-run by Yosakoi-Dance troupes. Entire streets are closed off to traffic, and teams of energetic dancers compete for the grand prize in the heat of mid-summer. Its relatively short history (from 1954) gives this dance festival its contemporary feel. Unlike some traditional dance festivals, Yosakoi teams are free to choreograph new routines. A common thread is the wooden clappers, called Naruko, which are held by each dancer. Many teams use the original ‘Seicho Odori’ dance, and Yosakoi-bushi song as their inspiration. This is an ideal time to visit Kochi – but book accommodation early!

References

In English

https://visitkochijapan.com/en/highlights/yosakoi

https://www.pref.kochi.lg.jp/english/tourism-yosakoi.html

In Japanese

https://www.pref.kochi.lg.jp/soshiki/120902/2018042000115.html

https://yosakoimatsuri.com/

http://www.honke-yosakoi.jp/news/「第67回よさこい祭り」及び「2020よさこい全国大会.php

Photo thanks to 工房 やまもも @ Flickr.

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