Bellinson Group Japan

Sumo Tournaments

Professional sumo is organized into six major tournaments, or basho, held throughout the year in Japan. Each basho lasts 15 days and takes place in various cities across the country, attracting thousands of spectators from around the world. The tournaments follow a round-robin format, with wrestlers competing against opponents from their own and other divisions. Points are awarded for wins, and the wrestler with the most points at the end of the tournament is declared the winner of their division. The most prestigious division, makuuchi, features top-ranked wrestlers vying for the coveted championship title and other accolades. Sumo tournaments are not only sporting events but also cultural spectacles, showcasing the athleticism, tradition, and pageantry of Japan’s national sport.

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Ring Design

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 Timeless Tradition and Athletic Drama of Sumo Wrestling: A Cultural Icon

Sumo wrestling, with its ancient origins and deep-rooted traditions, stands as a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Dating back over 1,500 years, this venerable sport has evolved from ritualistic performances to a highly strategic and nuanced form of athletic competition.

Weight Classes

Despite the common perception of sumo wrestlers as overweight giants, there exists a nuanced system of weight classes in professional sumo. Wrestlers are classified into various divisions based on their weight, with strict upper limits for each division.