Sumo games and the legacy behind it

VIDEO: See the amazing origins of Sumo Wrestling on the next page!

The white thick-waisted loincloth made of cotton is worn while training and colored silk suits are worn during competitions. The Japanese believe that color determines the wrestlers luck, incase of a match not ending in triumph for a wrestler the color could be replaced, to bring good fortune to the one wearing it.

It may go without saying, but Sumo wrestlers are nothing like marathon runners, in the world of Sumo competitions “slow and steady” does not “win the race”. Instead, it is one incredible display of power and strength summed up in a matter of seconds that makes a Sumo a champion.

Sumo wrestling games have an extensive history that is woven into Japan’s history throughout recorded time. This sport has followed through history and remained one of the most popular games in this culture. Many things have changed such as rules and qualifications to participate but one thing has always remained the same, and that is the sturdy fact that sumo wrestling goes hand in hand with Japanese culture.

Capital city Tokyo plays host to Grand Sumo Tournament thrice a year in January, May and September. The tournament begins on a Sunday and on the fifteenth day, ends on a Sunday too. In Tokyo, the championship is held at the Grand Sumo Stadium Kokugikan. Kkokugian is located in Ryogoku. The tournament commences AT 10:00 a m with competitions between inexperienced wrestlers; matches between experienced wrestlers follow later and by 04:00 pm, the star wrestlers appear. The real action starts from 04:00pm and lasts for another couple of hours. The day’s competition ends with a bout between the highest ranking sumo the yokozuna and a challenger. The inexperienced sumo wrestlers take part in the bouts with the aim of getting the most wins.