Hello! This is the Kokuyosa Project Committee.
For the first time ever, an international Yosakoi festival will be held in Canada — and in fact, all of North America!
Introducing: The North America International Yosakoi Festival — KOKUYOSA
In September 2025, teams from Canada, the United States, and Japan will gather at the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge, Alberta, for two days full of vibrant music, energetic dancing, and cultural exchange!
🔥 Why was KOKUYOSA created?
🌸 Yosakoi is spreading worldwide
Yosakoi is now enjoyed in over 29 countries, with festivals being held across the globe.
The secret behind its popularity lies in its simple yet powerful rules:
Dancers hold and rhythmically clap naruko (wooden clappers).
The music incorporates phrases from the traditional “Yosakoi-bushi” song.
Everything else is up to the creativity of each team — music, choreography, and costumes can all be self-designed.
That’s why Yosakoi embodies:
“Tradition × Creativity × Respect” — the essence of Yosakoi!
Anyone can participate, and cultural exchange happens naturally ✨
🌸 Why Canada?
KOKUYOSA was born from the wish to “dance together across borders!”
The stage is set at the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, a symbol of Japanese-Canadian friendship and a historic site representing Japanese immigration in Canada.
Bringing an authentic Yosakoi festival to this meaningful place has long been our dream — and it will finally come true in September 2025!
💪 Meet the Project Committee Members!
🌸 Tomo Honda
Kade Cultural Society / Canada Yosakoi Federation / YOSOCA Founder / Calgary Japanese Community Association Board Member / Event Director for Calgary Japanese Centre
Founded Calgary’s first Japanese Yosakoi team “YOSOCA” in 2017. Has led numerous cultural performances at major festivals including the Calgary Stampede Parade, fireworks shows, and Japanese cultural festivals.
🌸 Emiko Tanaka
Kochi Yosakoi Ambassador / Kochi Prefecture Tourism Ambassador / Kizuna International Team Founder / Ino Town Tourism Ambassador
Based in Toronto. A global leader promoting Yosakoi internationally. Founded teams across Canada and Europe, welcoming dancers from over 20 countries.
🌸 Noboru Inoue
Producer of Yosakoi Team “Izuru” / Leader of “Pirikoko” — official Harajuku Super Yosakoi staff / International Yosakoi Festival Advisor
Based in Tokyo. With 13 years as leader of the award-winning “Tenku Shinatoya Shin,” he is a prominent producer, mentor, and promoter for both domestic and international Yosakoi development.
Together, we are building a global circle of Yosakoi that transcends borders and cultures!
🌟 Japanese Culture × International Exchange × Community Revitalization
KOKUYOSA is not just about dance performances.
It offers a rich blend of cultural and community experiences:
✅ Authentic Yosakoi culture workshops
✅ Co-hosted with Bunka Hashi Festival — showcasing traditional and pop Japanese culture
✅ Local food trucks and market stalls
✅ Boosting the local economy and tourism
A completely new type of festival packed with unique value!
📅 Festival Dates
September 27 (Sat) & 28 (Sun), 2025
📍 Venue
Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
💖 Support & Donations Welcome!
▶ Donation Page
https://give.crowdfunding.alberta.ca/kokuyosa2025
▶ Official Website
Every week, we will introduce participating teams, special highlights, and behind-the-scenes updates as we count down to KOKUYOSA 🎶
Stay tuned and join us in this exciting journey!
— Kokuyosa Project Committee (KOKUYOSAプロジェクト運営委員会)