Hello from the Kokuyosa Project Committee!
In just 11 weeks, the very first international yosakoi festival in North America — KOKUYOSA — will take place in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada!
Born in Kochi, Japan and now danced around the world, yosakoi brings its vibrant energy to North America for the first time. In this issue, we’ll share an overview of the event and introduce the special venue where it will unfold!
What is KOKUYOSA?
KOKUYOSA is a brand-new festival that celebrates the Japanese cultural tradition of yosakoi, bringing together international teams from Japan, Canada, the U.S., and beyond.
Teams in colorful costumes dance with naruko clappers to original music — a truly spectacular sight!
Event Details
Dates: Saturday, September 27 & Sunday, September 28, 2025
Venue: Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Lethbridge, Alberta
Many programs are free and open to everyone — bring your family and friends!
A Stage Where Japanese and Multicultural Beauty Meet — Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden
The venue, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, was built in 1967 to commemorate the friendship between Japan and Canada.
Inside the garden, you’ll find a serene landscape of ponds, red bridges, tea houses, and stone lanterns — all designed by Japanese gardeners and constructed from materials crafted in Kyoto, Japan.
It’s a place where the spirit of Japan lives and a symbol of multiculturalism in Canada, making it the perfect setting for yosakoi.
This will be a historic moment — when tradition meets modernity, East meets West, and cultures connect.
Kokuyosa will be Hosted just outside of the garden!
Learn more about Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden here!
Why Lethbridge?
Lethbridge has a deep connection with Japan, just like this garden. The region has long been home to many Japanese Canadians, who have contributed greatly to agriculture, community life, and Canadian society as a whole.
We believe that Lethbridge is the perfect place to share yosakoi’s message of “tradition and innovation” and “connections beyond borders.”
Friendship Between Japan and Canada — For Future Generations
KOKUYOSA is a cultural baton passed from the past to the future.
Join us as we take this historic first step in Lethbridge!
We’ll continue to bring you exciting updates, including team introductions and volunteer information. Stay tuned! 
Dates
September 27 & 28, 2025
Venue
Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Lethbridge, Alberta
We Appreciate Your Support!
Donate here:
https://give.crowdfunding.
Official website:
https://kokuyosa.com