Hello,
This is Tomo from the KOKUYOSA Project Committee!
We are just five weeks away from the very first North America International Yosakoi Festival – KOKUYOSA! I’m thrilled to share the next round of team introductions, featuring teams from Japan, the birthplace of Yosakoi, and our proud Canadian teams.
Introducing the Teams from Japan (alphabetical order)
1. Banzai Naruko Carnival Team (Kochi & Hokkaido)
Organized by guest singer Takeshi Miyamoto, who created one of the most popular new Yosakoi songs “Banzai Naruko Carnival”, this mixed-member team unites dancers from Kochi and Hokkaido. Their mission is to bring together the unique flavors of Kochi-style and Hokkaido-style Yosakoi, celebrating diversity and joy through dance.
2. Obiyamachisuji (Kochi)
Founded in 1954, Obiyamachisuji is one of the oldest Yosakoi teams, affectionately known as “Obisuji.” The team is composed of local shopkeepers, families, staff, and customers from the Obiyamachi shopping district. With the concept of “Tradition and Challenge,” they carry forward Yosakoi’s heritage while embracing new ideas. This year’s performance theme is Obisuji Hyakka (“A Hundred Flowers of Obisuji”), symbolizing each dancer blooming individually while the team shines as one.
3. Sagami RANBU◯ (Kanagawa)
The official team of the annual “Sagami Yosakoi RANBU!” festival in Kanagawa. The circle symbol “◯” in their name represents many connections: the circle of the team, Yosakoi friends, audiences, human connections, and their mascot “Maru-san.” It also carries the spirit of positivity – not an X, but a ◯.
4. SoftBank Yosakoi 〜One〜 (Tokyo)
“Enjoy the challenge!” is the motto of this energetic Tokyo-based team. Originally formed as a club activity at SoftBank, the group now includes members from both inside and outside the company. With more than 90% of dancers starting Yosakoi as adults, the team embodies inclusivity and fun. Their performances aim to create joy for both dancers and spectators alike.
Introducing the Teams from Canada (alphabetical order)
1. Kizuna International Team (Canada)
Formed by Yosakoi Ambassadors appointed by Kochi Prefecture, this team brings together dancers worldwide to share their love of Yosakoi. They regularly perform at Kochi’s Yosakoi Festival and Tokyo’s Harajuku Omotesando Super Yosakoi, spreading “Kizuna” (bonds) across cultures and countries.
2. NCS Yosakoi (Lethbridge)
The local Lethbridge team, created in 2025 especially for KOKUYOSA. With the festival happening in their hometown, this will be their first-ever performance. The team is full of energy and excitement to showcase what they’ve been practicing all year.
3. Sakuramai Toronto (Toronto)
Toronto’s first Yosakoi team, founded in 2011 by Emiko Tanaka and Yuriko Hinkle. Recognized in 2016 as a Kochi Yosakoi Ambassador Team, Sakuramai has become a staple at Toronto cultural events, including the city’s largest summer event, Japan Festival Canada.
4. YOSOCA (Calgary)
The host team of KOKUYOSA and Calgary’s first Yosakoi group, founded in 2017. YOSOCA has been performing across Alberta, from festivals and parades to cultural events, spreading the spirit of Yosakoi with original music, choreography, and costumes. With over 40 members of diverse backgrounds, YOSOCA is dedicated to building cultural bridges through dance — and proud to welcome the world to Lethbridge for this historic festival.
Volunteer Recruitment Now Open!
Be part of history and join us behind the scenes at KOKUYOSA 2025!
Details
- Dates: Sept 26–28, 2025
- 26th: Setup
- 27th: Festival Operations
- 28th: Take-down
- Roles: Event support, guest assistance, program distribution, guiding teams & visitors, clean-up support
- Special Roles: Team supporters (bilingual), media (photo/video), organizer support
- Requirements: Age 15+, healthy, enthusiastic. Bilingual (JP/EN) preferred.
- Benefits: Volunteer T-shirt, lunch on Sept 27, volunteer certificate (upon request)
What is Yosakoi?
Discover the vibrant, energetic dance style born in Kochi, Japan:
Learn about Yosakoi
What is KOKUYOSA?
Short for KOKUSAI YOSAKOI (“International Yosakoi”), KOKUYOSA is the first international Yosakoi festival in North America, bringing together teams from Japan, Canada, the U.S., and beyond!
Festival Details
When:
Saturday, September 27 & Sunday, September 28, 2025
• September 27 – Main Festival: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• September 28 – Workshop Showcase: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where:
Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Lethbridge, Alberta
Admission:
Many programs are free and open to the public — bring your family and friends!
Co-hosted with:
Bunka Hashi Festival at the Agri-Food Hub
