Yosakoi Matsuri

Yosakoi Matsuri (よさこい祭り) is one of Japan’s most dynamic and colorful summer festivals, held every year in early August in the heart of Kochi City. First celebrated in 1954, the festival blends traditional Japanese folk dance with contemporary music and choreography, creating a uniquely modern interpretation of cultural expression. Dancers in vibrant, often handmade costumes take to the streets in coordinated teams, performing high-energy routines to the beat of drums, whistles, and naruko clappers—wooden instruments carried by each participant. The performances are set to both classic folk melodies and modern remixes, drawing tens of thousands of spectators who line the streets to cheer on the processions.

Spanning multiple venues throughout downtown Kochi—including Otesuji Avenue, Central Park, and the Harimayabashi area—the festival features more than 200 dance teams, each adding their own creative flair. From morning to night, the city pulses with music, movement, and celebration. Food stalls, lanterns, and community events contribute to a festive atmosphere that’s both family-friendly and electric in spirit. With its inclusive energy and joyful fusion of past and present, Yosakoi Matsuri is not only a proud symbol of Kochi’s identity but also a must-see highlight for anyone visiting Shikoku in the summer.