What Form of Wrestling Is Popular in Japan?

Japan has a rich history of traditional sports and martial arts, and one form of wrestling that stands out is sumo. Sumo, or sumō, is a unique style of wrestling that has been practiced in Japan for centuries. It is not only popular within Japan but also internationally, with many people fascinated by its traditions and rituals.

The Origins and History of Sumo

The origins of sumo can be traced back to ancient times when it was performed as a religious ritual to ensure bountiful harvests. Over the years, it evolved into a professional sport with strict rules and regulations. Today, sumo is considered the national sport of Japan and holds a significant place in Japanese culture.

The Basics of Sumo Wrestling

In a sumo match, two wrestlers known as rikishi face each other in a circular ring called a dohyō. The objective is simple – to force your opponent out of the ring or make any part of their body other than their feet touch the ground. Matches are intense and can be over in seconds or last minutes depending on the skill and strength of the wrestlers.

Sumo Wrestler Rankings

Sumo wrestlers are ranked based on their performance in official tournaments known as bashos. The highest rank achievable is yokozuna, followed by ōzeki, sekiwake, komusubi, maegashira, jūryō, makushita, sandanme, jonidan, and jonokuchi. Achieving higher ranks requires consistent success in tournaments.

The Physique of Sumo Wrestlers

Sumo wrestlers are known for their impressive size and weight. They undergo rigorous training regimens to build strength and gain weight necessary for the sport.

A typical sumo wrestler can weigh anywhere between 300 and 600 pounds. The extra weight not only provides stability but also makes it more challenging for opponents to push them out of the ring.

Sumo Tournaments and Ceremonies

Sumo tournaments, or bashos, are held six times a year in Japan. Each tournament lasts for 15 days, during which wrestlers compete against each other to improve their rankings. The most prestigious tournament is the Grand Sumo Tournament held in Tokyo, where fans from all over the world gather to witness the action.

Sumo also has various unique rituals and ceremonies that add to its allure. Before each bout, wrestlers perform a ritual known as shiko, where they stomp their feet to cleanse the dohyō and intimidate their opponents. Additionally, sumo matches begin with a ceremonial salt-throwing to purify the ring and ward off evil spirits.

The Appeal of Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling’s popularity stems from its fascinating blend of athleticism, tradition, and cultural significance. The sport’s deep-rooted traditions and rituals make it a captivating experience for both Japanese locals and tourists alike. The sheer power and skill displayed by sumo wrestlers during matches leave spectators in awe.

• Bold Text: Sumo wrestling is an ancient sport that holds great cultural value in Japan.
• Underlined Text: Sumo tournaments are held six times a year in Japan.

In conclusion, sumo wrestling is undoubtedly one of the most popular forms of wrestling in Japan. Its rich history, intense matches, unique rituals, and larger-than-life wrestlers make it a truly captivating sport to watch. Whether you are a fan of combat sports or simply interested in exploring Japanese culture, witnessing a live sumo match is an experience you won’t forget.