The 72nd Yosakoi Festival burst into life on August 10, 2025, in Kochi City, Japan, turning the streets into a whirlwind of color, music, and rhythmic energy. Spread across 16 vibrant venues throughout the city, the first official day of performances featured 188 teams—120 from within Kochi Prefecture and 68 from other regions—uniting around 18,000 passionate dancers in a celebration of tradition and creativity. This iconic event, held annually in early August, draws crowds from across Japan and beyond, showcasing the unique Yosakoi Naruko dance that blends historical roots with modern flair.
Near the Otesuji Headquarters Performance Area, a particularly memorable moment unfolded as the Kochi Prefectural Police made a triumphant return to the dance floor after 51 years. Aiming to foster greater public interest in their role as festival security providers, 55 officers in full uniform took up naruko clappers and delivered an electrifying performance. The show began with a dramatic skit: an officer portraying a suspicious troublemaker disrupted the festivities, only to be swiftly subdued by a team of riot police, eliciting cheers and applause from the onlookers.
The event was orchestrated by Koji Hamada, the 37-year-old assistant chief of the Kochi Prefectural Police Department’s Recruitment Division. Reflecting on the success, Hamada shared, “We had a great time and wrapped it up safely. Through the Yosakoi dance, we hope people feel closer to the police.” This heartfelt participation not only highlighted the officers’ dedication but also underscored the festival’s theme of inclusivity, where even those in uniform become part of the communal joy.
we’ll explore the Yosakoi Festival in depth—from its origins and cultural importance to its economic and global impacts. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or planning a trip to Japan, this article delves into why Yosakoi continues to captivate hearts worldwide.
The Origins and Evolution of the Yosakoi Festival
The Yosakoi Festival traces its roots back to 1954 in Kochi Prefecture, on Japan’s Shikoku Island. Conceived in the post-World War II era, it was designed to uplift the spirits of locals reeling from economic hardship and wartime devastation. The Kochi Chamber of Commerce and Industry spearheaded the initiative, blending elements of the traditional Awa Odori dance from neighboring Tokushima Prefecture with local folk songs like the “Yosakoi Bushi.” The result was a dynamic, high-energy dance style that encouraged participation from all walks of life, fostering community resilience and economic recovery.
Unlike more rigid traditional Japanese dances, Yosakoi emphasizes creativity and inclusivity. Key rules include the use of naruko—small wooden clappers originally employed by farmers to ward off birds from rice fields. Teams, limited to 150 members, must incorporate a phrase from the “Yosakoi Bushi” song into their original music and advance forward during performances, symbolizing progress and vitality. Costumes are elaborate and thematic, often featuring vibrant colors, LED lights, and props that reflect the team’s story or regional pride. This flexibility allows for fusions with contemporary genres like hip-hop, samba, or rock, making Yosakoi accessible to modern audiences.
Over the decades, the festival has grown exponentially. From its humble beginnings with a few local teams, it now spans four days: an eve celebration on August 9 with fireworks, main performances on August 10 and 11, and a national competition on August 12. The 2025 edition, marking the 72nd iteration, featured nearly 200 teams and 18,000 dancers, transforming Kochi into a living stage of synchronized movements and infectious enthusiasm.
20250810 よさこい祭り 升形競演場
夢源風人 「TATTOBU!!!!!」
高知一発目の演舞です！#よさこい祭り #夢源風人 #TATTOBU!!!!! #升形フル動画はこちらhttps://t.co/ZSILlghxjI pic.twitter.com/cqZg26YRVp
— yolo!!!!! (@yosa_photos) August 10, 2025
The 2025 Highlights: Police Officers Steal the Spotlight
This year’s festival opened with a bang, but the Kochi police’s performance was undoubtedly a crowd favorite. After a 51-year hiatus—last seen in 1974—the officers’ return was a strategic move to humanize law enforcement. Dressed in uniforms, including heavy gear like bulletproof vests, the 55 participants executed precise choreography to the tune of “Kono Chi e” (To This Land), a song that resonates with themes of community and heritage. The preceding skit, depicting a festival disruption quelled by swift action, added humor and relevance, reminding attendees of the police’s protective role while showcasing their lighter side.
Social media buzzed with videos of the “dancing police,” amplifying the event’s reach. Attendees praised the synchronization and energy, noting how it bridged the gap between authority and the public. This aligns with Japan’s community policing model, where officers engage locals through “koban” stations and events, building trust in a society known for low crime rates.
Other 2025 highlights included international teams, innovative choreography, and themed floats. The festival’s scale—17 performance halls in recent years—ensures diverse experiences, from intimate street dances to grand competitions.
(X: @5kaasan)
Cultural Significance: A Dance of Unity and Innovation
Yosakoi’s cultural impact lies in its ability to preserve heritage while embracing change. Rooted in “Yosakoi Bushi,” a folk song about forbidden love, the dance symbolizes freedom and expression. It’s non-traditional, lacking deep religious ties, which allows for broad participation across ages, genders, and backgrounds. This inclusivity promotes diversity, with teams often including families, students, and corporate groups, fostering social bonds in a rapidly modernizing Japan.
The festival embodies “matsuri” spirit—Japanese communal celebrations that strengthen societal ties. In Kochi, known as “Tosa,” Yosakoi reflects the region’s feisty, independent character, often called “Tosa-ben” dialect and samurai history. It has inspired variants like Yosakoi Soran in Hokkaido, combining Yosakoi with fisherman’s chants, highlighting Japan’s regional diversity.
Economic and Social Impacts on Kochi
Economically, Yosakoi is a powerhouse for Kochi, a rural prefecture facing depopulation. Attracting over a million visitors annually, it generates billions in yen through tourism, boosting hotels, eateries, and shops. Studies show festivals like Yosakoi aid rural revitalization by preserving cultural pride and creating jobs in event management, costume design, and hospitality. The 2025 event, with its massive turnout, likely amplified this effect, especially post-pandemic.
Socially, it combats isolation in aging communities, encouraging youth involvement and intergenerational dialogue. The police’s participation exemplifies this, promoting public safety awareness in an engaging way.
Yosakoi’s Global Reach: From Kochi to the World
Yosakoi has transcended borders, with over 200 events in Japan and adaptations in 33 countries. International festivals in Malaysia (Penang), Vietnam (Hanoi), Ghana (Accra), and the US celebrate Japanese culture while incorporating local elements. For instance, the Harajuku Super Yosakoi in Tokyo draws global teams, and Expo 2025 in Osaka will feature a “World Yosakoi Day” on August 22-23. This spread promotes cultural exchange, with foreign participants competing in Kochi and bringing fresh innovations.
Practical Tips for Foreign Visitors
For those attending Yosakoi:
- Timing and Tickets: Arrive early for prime spots. Tickets for main venues like Otesuji are available online.
- What to Expect: Hot, humid weather—stay hydrated. Venues vary from streets to parks; wear comfortable shoes.
- Participation: Some teams welcome guests; inquire via official sites.
- Cultural Etiquette: Cheer enthusiastically but respect performers. Share on social media with #YosakoiFestival.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore Kochi Castle, Katsurahama Beach, or local sake breweries.
- Accommodations: Book in advance; consider ryokans for an authentic stay.
Conclusion: Why Yosakoi Endures as a Global Phenomenon
The 72nd Yosakoi Festival’s opening on August 10, 2025, exemplified the event’s enduring appeal: a fusion of tradition, innovation, and community. The police officers’ dance not only entertained but also deepened connections, embodying Yosakoi’s inclusive ethos. As it continues to inspire economic growth, cultural preservation, and international bonds, Yosakoi remains a beacon of joy in Kochi and beyond. For foreign travelers, it’s an unmissable immersion into Japan’s vibrant soul—plan your visit and join the rhythm!
