Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is a traditional Japanese full-contact sport that dates back over a thousand years, blending physical strength, ritualistic customs, and cultural heritage. In a sumo match, two rikishi (wrestlers) face off in a circular ring called a dohyō, with the objective of forcing the opponent out of the ring or making any part of their body (except the soles of the feet) touch the ground. Governed by ancient Shinto rituals, sumo is not just a sport but a ceremonial spectacle involving precise movements, attire, and discipline. The sport is dominated by a strict hierarchy, intense training regimes in sumo stables (heya), and tournaments (basho) that attract national attention in Japan. Globally, sumo wrestling has gained popularity for its uniqueness and the way it reflects Japanese culture, discipline, and honor.