[Shin Obiyamachi-suji] Obiyamachi-suji | Kochi Yosakoi Festival | 2024 

[Team Introduction]
Obiyamachi-suji is a long-established team that has participated in the Yosakoi Festival every year since its inception. Based in the Obiyamachi Shopping Street in Kochi City, this year marks their 68th appearance, with a total of 150 members. The team consists of both members of the shopping district association and participants selected through a public recruitment process. The age range of the participants is remarkably broad, spanning from 7 to 71 years old.
The team operates under the themes of "tradition" and "challenge," incorporating new ideas each year while cherishing the essence of Yosakoi. This year’s theme is "Shin Obiyamachi-suji," featuring different choreography for each group of dancers. The performance is designed to captivate the audience with variations in formations and musical styles. Additionally, by integrating movements from "Seicho Yosakoi" and "Awa Odori," the team aims to harmonize tradition with modernity. The costumes are based on modern yukata, with the back design differing by block, allowing for a dynamic display of colors during the performance.
The choreography is created by Ms. Chika Tamura, a long-time active figure in Kochi. While slightly challenging, the choreography is sophisticated and stylish. The team's float is notable for its lanterns and the "Obisuji" lettering, embodying the concept of enjoying the festival in the shopping district.
Obiyamachi-suji, with its 70 years of history, remains an indispensable presence in the world of Yosakoi. Their performance, full of the dignity of a veteran team, shows how much they enjoy the festival, making them an incredibly cool team that never fails to captivate the audience.
[Yosakoi Festival]
The Yosakoi Festival is a vibrant event held annually from August 9th to 12th in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture. The festival began in 1954 with the aim of revitalizing the local economy and uplifting the spirits of the citizens.
During the festival, around 190 teams and 20,000 dancers participate, energetically performing with naruko (wooden clappers) in hand. Each team competes with its own unique costumes, music, and choreography, performing at 17 venues throughout Kochi City. On August 9th, the festival kicks off with an eve ceremony, and on the 12th, a national competition and closing ceremony are held, enveloping the entire city in the festive atmosphere.
Due to its popularity, the Yosakoi Festival has spread nationwide, leading to the creation of similar events such as the "YOSAKOI Soran Festival" in various regions. Furthermore, it has expanded internationally, with Yosakoi being performed in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, France, South Korea, and Taiwan, where Japanese traditional culture merges with local cultures to create unique Yosakoi styles.
The Yosakoi Festival plays an important role in regional revitalization and international exchange.
[About This Channel]
This channel brings you the captivating charm of Yosakoi festivals from across Japan. Please subscribe to the channel and show your support for each team by liking and commenting. Your likes and comments will help these videos reach a wider audience.
#Yosakoi #Festival #Dance #Japan