Yosakoi returns with more dash

Students of SMJK Sains Tapah performing a dance. (Right) A Japanese Malaysian Yosakoi team from Kuala Lumpur taking part in the parade in Penang. — Photos: ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star

A MOTLEY collection of colours, dances and cultural activities was the order of the day at the Yosakoi Parade 2018.

Held in Penang for the fifth time, the festival at the Esplanade on Saturday attracted around 2,000 eager visitors including children from 13 schools nationwide.

They were all treated to a feast of Japanese culture.

Besides taking part in the making of Japanese rice cakes called ‘mochitsuki’, visitors had fun playing traditional games.

Participants showing the traditional way of making Japanese rice cakes during the Yosakoi Festival and Parade 2018 at Esplanade in George Town.

They also tackled wall climbing and took part in skateboard and softball competitions.

Also featured was ‘Tsunahiki’ (tug-of-war) which is a staple of school sports in Japan.

Students of SMJK Sains Tapah performing a dance. (Right) A Japanese Malaysian Yosakoi team from Kuala Lumpur taking part in the parade in Penang. — Photos: ZHA FARA N NAS IB/The Star

Organising chairman Emi Yamazaki said the skateboard and softball competitions were introduced this year as these sports would be included at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

“This event was first held to help the victims of the Tohoku earthquake in 2011 and since then, it has continued as a yearly affair,” she said.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng launched the celebration.