At the heart of every sumo match lies the sacred sumo ring, or dohyo. Constructed from compacted clay, the dohyo measures 4.55 meters in diameter and is elevated on a platform made of rice-straw bales. The dohyo is considered sacred ground, symbolizing the battleground where wrestlers test their strength, skill, and resolve. Before each match, the dohyo is meticulously purified with salt to cleanse it of impurities and to ward off evil spirits. This purification ritual, known as shubatsu, is performed by the yobidashi, or ring announcer, who sprinkles salt around the perimeter of the ring using a wooden ladle. The dohyo’s design and construction reflect the deep-rooted traditions and spiritual significance of sumo wrestling, elevating each match into a sacred and solemn ceremony.