The Yosakoi Soran festival is one of the most exciting festivals in Sapporo!  It is held every June, and almost two hundred million people enjoy watching the Yosakoi Soran dancing.  In addition to Sapporo citizens, many foreigners and people from other prefectures visit Sapporo to see it.  In 2003 it was held from June 4th to June 8th, and 330 teams danced.  Each team has unique characteristics, which attracts a lot of people.  Some teams consist of just children, some are particular about costumes, and some dance to make the hometown people active.  Audiences enjoyed the festival all over Sapporo because Yosakoi Soran dancing was held in 25 places.  On the last day, the best team was chosen.  This year Hiragishi Tenjin, who had won four times before, won first prize again.  However, every team did its best.  So dancers and audiences were very excited during the Yosakoi Soran festival.