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Complete Guide to the Kochi Yosakoi Festival(Matsuri) 2025｜Four Days of Dance and Passion that Take Over the City

June 20, 2025

The Kochi Yosakoi Festival(Matsuri) is one of Japan’s most iconic summer events. Dancers from all over the country gather, dressed in vibrant costumes and carrying naruko clappers, to fill the city of Kochi with lively energy. The 2025 edition marks the 72nd year of the festival. This comprehensive guide for international travelers covers the charm, highlights, access information, and nearby sightseeing tips to help you fully enjoy the Yosakoi experience.

1. What Is the Kochi Yosakoi Festival?

Held annually in August in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, the Yosakoi Festival is a large-scale dance event where approximately 190 teams and 18,000 dancers perform unique choreographies at various dance venues around the city. Admission is free, and the performances(Yosakoi Naruko Odori) happen throughout the city, allowing visitors to enjoy the action up close—a major appeal of the festival.

The dance venues are scattered across town, each offering a different atmosphere. For instance, Central Park and Otesuji Main Venue are known for their dynamic productions, while the more local, cozy atmosphere of the Mamma Shopping Street Venue gives you a taste of neighborhood charm. Just strolling between these areas lets you experience the spirit of Kochi. Many locals also walk around in yukata during the festival, adding a nostalgic, almost time-travel-like feel to the experience.

2. What Is Yosakoi Naruko Odori?

Yosakoi Naruko Odori is a unique dance style born in Kochi that blends tradition with modernity. Performers dance using naruko—wooden clappers—in hand, with original music and choreography. While it’s required to incorporate the traditional “Yosakoi Bushi” melody, teams mix in jazz, rock, wadaiko (Japanese drums), and more, resulting in new expressions every year.

The high level of creative freedom in choreography makes every performance exciting and unpredictable. Dancers moving to the rhythm of the naruko have become a beloved summer tradition in Kochi. The festival is open to all ages, creating a vibrant space for multigenerational interaction.

3. Basic Information About the Festival

Tip: Be sure to check the schedule in advance—especially for the National Competition and fireworks, which draw large crowds. Paid seating is available, and English maps and schedules are offered by hotels and tourist centers.

4. Detailed Schedule

※The schedule is subject to change.

August 9 (Sat) – Eve Festival

  • 11:00–15:00: Tosa Student Yosakoi (Kochi Castle)
  • 17:00–21:30: Blessing Ceremony & Eve Festival (Central Park)
  • 19:45–21:00: Kochi Fireworks Festival (Kagamigawa Riverside)

August 10 (Sun) & 11 (Mon, Holiday) – Main Event

  • 11:00–22:00: Obiyamachi Venue
  • 11:30–22:00: Central Park Venue
  • 12:30–16:30: Kochi University Venue
  • 12:30–21:30: Kamimachi, Masugata, Mamma, Atago, Saenba, Umenotsuji, Harimayabashi, Kyomachi, Hata, Kochi Castle, Kochi Station Front
  • 13:15–16:15: Otesuji Main Venue (Day Session)
  • 17:15–21:30: Otesuji Main Venue (Night Session)
  • 17:30–21:30 (11th only): Yanagimachi Venue (Local Teams Only)

August 12 (Tue) – National Competition & Final Event

  • 12:30–13:00: National Competition Opening Ceremony (Kochi Castle)
  • 13:00–18:00: National Competition (Central Park)
  • 13:15–22:00: National Competition (Otesuji, Obiyamachi, Kochi Castle)
  • 18:30–22:00: Award Ceremony & Final Event (Central Park)

5. Highlights of the Kochi Yosakoi Festival

  • Naruko and Costumes: The synchronized sound of naruko and dynamic team movements are captivating. Each team’s costume is distinct, ranging from modern designs to traditional wafuku.

  • Jikatasha Floats: These music trucks accompany each team, playing music as they parade through the city, beautifully lit and decorated, especially at night.
  • Audience Participation: With close proximity to performers, you can enjoy an immersive, high-energy experience.

  • Fireworks on the Eve: The spectacular fireworks display at Kagamigawa Riverside marks the grand opening of the festival.

  • National Competition: On August 12, top teams from around Japan compete in thrilling performances.

The illuminated night performances offer a dreamlike atmosphere. It’s a dazzling fusion of lights, sound, and movement—like watching a live musical. It's also a fantastic opportunity for photography.

6. History and Origins

The Kochi Yosakoi Festival began in 1954 to revitalize post-war morale, initiated by the Kochi Chamber of Commerce with strong support from the community. "Yosakoi" means “Come at night,” reflecting the desire to enjoy the evening together. While the festival has spread across Japan and evolved into what is now known as “YOSAKOI festivals,” its roots lie here in Kochi.

Originally centered around local dances, it gradually embraced diverse styles, and since the 1990s, creative youth-led teams have increased. Today, it welcomes participants from across Japan and abroad, making it a globally recognized event. Kochi’s Yosakoi is considered the origin of other famous festivals like Hokkaido’s YOSAKOI Soran and international YOSAKOI events.

7. Access Information

Nearest Station: JR Kochi Station (many venues are within walking distance)

How to Get There:

  • From Tokyo/Osaka: Fly into Kochi Ryoma Airport, then take a 30-minute limousine bus to the city center
  • From Okayama: Take the JR “Nanpu” Limited Express to Kochi Station (Shinkansen + Express)
  • Long-distance buses are available from major cities for budget travelers

Within Kochi, the streetcar system (Tosaden) is a scenic and convenient way to move between venues and explore the city.

8. How to Enjoy the Festival

Recommended Events and Times

  • Eve Festival (Aug 9): Student and invited teams perform + Fireworks
  • Main Days (Aug 10–11): Continuous performances from morning to night
  • National Competition (Aug 12): Elite teams compete + Award-winning performances
  • Food Stalls Around Hirome Market: Try local gourmet and cold treats

What to Wear

  • Comfortable clothes and shoes for walking
  • Lightweight, breathable outfits for the hot daytime weather
  • Yukata is popular and perfect for memorable photos
  • A light jacket for nighttime viewing

What to Bring

  • Water, hat, towel, sunscreen
  • Mobile battery, camera
  • Umbrella or raincoat (weather can change quickly)
  • Hand fan or portable fan
  • Folding chair or picnic mat for long viewing hours

9. Etiquette & Tips

  • Photo Etiquette: Don’t get too close to dancers; avoid flash photography
  • Peak Times/Areas: Crowds peak from 6–9 PM. Otesuji and Central Park are especially packed
  • During Crowds: Stay on sidewalks, avoid pushing, and keep communication devices handy
  • Traffic Restrictions: Check the official site in advance for road closures
  • Others: Take your trash with you and follow local etiquette for a pleasant experience

Note: Reserving spots at dance venues is prohibited in some areas. Respecting the rules helps ensure everyone enjoys the event.

10. Nearby Tourist Spots

  • Kochi Castle: A historic site near the dance venues

  • Hirome Market: Popular for local eats and souvenirs

  • Katsurahama Beach: Known for the Ryoma Sakamoto statue and stunning sunsets

  • Sunday Market: A traditional outdoor market selling local produce and crafts

  • Makino Botanical Garden: Dedicated to famed botanist Tomitaro Makino—great for a relaxing visit

Other favorites include the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum and seaside cafes. If time allows, explore the Shimanto River area for a deeper nature experience in Kochi.

In Conclusion

The Kochi Yosakoi Festival is a high-energy celebration where tradition meets innovation. Its close interaction with performers, city-wide excitement, and immersive atmosphere make it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. If you're planning a summer trip to Japan, be sure to add this unforgettable festival to your itinerary.

Beyond the performances, you'll also encounter the rich culture, local cuisine, and stunning nature of Kochi. As a “highlight” of your summer journey in Japan, the Kochi Yosakoi Festival promises a lasting memory—where smiles, energy, and emotion come together in a perfect expression of Japanese summer.

 

 

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