Every summer, thousands of people from Japan and around the world flock to Kochi City for one of Kochi Prefecture’s most historic and vibrant events, the Yosakoi Festival. Originating in Shikoku, the Yosakoi Festival began in the city of Kochi in 1954 as a revitalization effort following World War II. The festival was conceived to boost the local population’s morale through music and dance performances. Held annually from August 9 to 12, this event transforms Kochi City into a massive open-air performance stage. Kochi Yosakoi FestivalYosakoi dance is characterized by big, energetic movements a…