Activities & Events – Sumo Tournament
When considering Japan, the colossal image of the sumo wrestler is one of the concepts that comes to mind. However, when closely examined, one finds that there is much more to the sumo wrestler than the stereotypes. TUJ students who attended the event were fortunate enough to be able to experience sumo for themselves in Ryogoku, an area in Sumida, Tokyo that is often considered the heartland of sumo. While watching the event, many questions were raised. What is it that the wrestlers toss into the air? Why do they stomp the ground with their feet? Simply watching sumo is one thing, but to truly appreciate this ancient art of Japan, a knowledge of the rich tradition that lies within it is needed.
The sumo arena itself is set up in a ritualistic style. The sumo ring, or dohyo, is where the action takes place. The ring is encircled with straw rice bags that are buried into the earth of the ring. The inner circle of the ring marks the area in which the event takes place. The first wrestler who is pushed outside of this circle or touches the ground with any part of their body other than their feet loses the match. The winner goes on to compete in a higher bracket. Before the match begins, the two wrestlers take part in a number of rituals which are derived from Shinto beliefs. The wrestlers will face each other, clap their hands and stomp their feet to drive evil spirits from the ring. Each wrestler will also take a handful of salt and toss it into the ring to purify the area. The two competitors will crouch and face each other, trying to come to an unspoken consensus. When they both place their fists on the ground, the match begins. The actual fight only lasts for seconds, but the results can be very interesting. It is not often than ones sees such big men flipping each other over with such skill. The rituals of this event make it very interesting to observe. The time it takes to prepare for each match makes the actual fight even more exciting.
The students who attended this event found it to be a valuable experience. It definitely gives one a good taste of Japanese culture. Sumo wrestling is just as much of a social event as it is a sport, making it that much more enjoyable.
- Ellen Yecny, OSS Student Worker
