Sumo, a Japanese Sport
Sumo (相撲, literally “striking one another”) is a full-contact combat sport originated in Japan in the late 6th century AD as a particular form of Shinto rite in prayer for prosperity and abundant harvests. Although in ancient times sumo was more violent and less regulated, the religious elements of antiquity are still present in today’s professional matches. The history of sumo closely relates to the evolution of Tokyo: around the 16th century, the first sanctioned tournament took place in the city
of Edo (ancient name of the Japanese capital).
An official sumo organization consisting of professional wrestlers was developed; also, many iconic elements are dated from this period. Nowadays the city of Tokyo hosts three major tournaments per year, more than any other city. In the wake of Tokyo 2020, the Japanese sports ministry has tried (in vain) to convince the International Olympic Committee to introduce sumo among Olympic sports.
The ritual of Sumo
If you think sumo can be reduced to two half-naked big men pushing each other’s out of a circle you will be surprised to know that bouts are always the shortest part of a match (usually last only few seconds). First, the day of fighting cannot begin without a great champion (yokozuna in Japanese) officially inaugurating the sports day with its attendance. Afterwards all the fighters are introduced to the public in their personal dojo aprons and perform some traditional lucky movements with their arms and legs while an announcer narrates their origin and records. Before each match, after wearing the mawashi (the typical sumo thong), the challengers perform the propitiatory ritual of throwing salt and after a short stretching phase, they get in position waiting for the referee to start the clash. As you may have guessed from this brief description, the ceremonial part is very complex and exceeds by far the fight; it is no coincidence that many Japanese people consider sumo an art rather than a simple sport.
Each tournament starts on Sunday and lasts fifteen days but it is also possible to buy a single match day ticket to get a taste of the Japanese national sport. Attending a sumo match is certainly a unique experience, nothing comparable to western combat sports: the atmosphere in the arena is in fact comparable much more to a theater, with the audience observing almost in silence the ceremonies and the fights. In addition, many Japanese decide to dress in kimonos for the occasion and it is quite common to see some geishas seating in the front rows.
