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Naruko and flags are the staple of all yosakoi teams, but there are other accessories or props that are used in yosakoi performances. Check out some of them below!

Lanterns

Credits: This blog

These stylish handheld lanterns often come with writing and designs on them. I've only ever seen the cylindrical version in person but there's also another variety that is flat. It reminds me of a boat's sail.

Credits: yosakoinaruko.net

Fans

That's my hand!

Specifically, folding fans or sensu (扇子). The fans might have some patterns or designs on them. I've seen double-sided fans where there are different colors on each of the two sides. It makes for really interesting color coordination! See below:

Umbrellas/parasols

Source: Wikimedia

Choreography involving these umbrellas often involves opening and closing the umbrellas for dramatic effect (similar to the fans). One other cool thing you can do with these is spin them! Most of this kind of umbrella I've seen come with a spiral pattern so they look extra cool when spinning.

Matoi

Credits: This blog

I hadn’t heard of this prop until Kasia brought it up to me: matoi (纏). It reminds me of a priest's staff but it's actually a tool used by firefighters in Edo period. I'll let Wikipedia explain this one:

A matoi is used to, "notify people of a fire near or within a building. It was taken up on a roof near the burning building by the matoi holder (纏持 matoimochi) and waved to draw the attention of other groups of firefighters, who would then hurry to the site of the fire to assist." Wikipedia

Fun fact: Our member teams in Singapore and Malaysia both have ‘matoi’ in their name! They use lots of fans and lanterns in their dances.

Surely there are more kinds of props being used in yosakoi dances. One of the beautiful parts of yosakoi is its openness to innovation. Let us know in the comments if you find interesting props, or if your team uses any.

This team has a koi fish attached to their outfits!

Photo credits: Laura Powell (Source)

// Daniel