Yosakoi Parade - Flower Festival

Golden Week Dance Parade along Heiwa Odori (Peace blvd)

JJ Walsh May 08, 2013 - 1 min read

Fans and Clappers are Yosakoi dance parade tradtions

Unique dance moves, costumes and style for each group

Synchronized dancers- these groups practice for countless hours

Yellow Kimonos were so striking with the bright green trees and blue skies

Hairy baton ornaments remind of costumery in Kagura performances

Kids did so well dancing with their groups for a long time in the hot sun- love his Koihat

Such beautiful costumes, make up and ornamental lanterns

Black and white checkered costumes with a huge demon flag- this group is a crowd favorite

Stong, bold and handsome movements by the male dancers in this group.

Local girls high school students had boundless energy and costume changes in their routine.

This girl was so funny sticking her tongue out at the crowd!

On the third day of Hiroshima's Flower Festival, held during the Golden Week holiday, is the colorful dance parade called "Yosakoi" (よさこい).

This year (2013) it was amazing weather, sunny with blue skies all day. The parade started at midday and featured Yosakoi dance troupes from around Hiroshima and other regions throughout Japan.

The signature dance moves of the Yosakoi are performed with traditional Japanese musical clackers and ornate fans. Apart from these aspects of the Yosakoi tradition, each group adds their own unique music (with live singing), costume design, make-up, banners and other decorations in order to stand out from the rest.

Most dancers emit such enthusiasm and inner joy that it is impossible not to be infected by their passion. It is really a wonderful show.

JJ Walsh @joy.walsh

I've been living in Hiroshima since the mid 90's & still discovering new things to enjoy. I'm a big fan of both the old "wabi sabi" as well as modern and new designs, Japan offers both of these type of places to explore and enjoy. Even after many years here, I am still discovering surprising, fan...