Ryogoku Sumo stadium

Sumo stadium was opened in 1985, 3 of 6 sumo tournament are held here in January, May and September. Sumo, the oldest sport in Japan was originally practiced as a part of Shinto ritual for good harvest in ancient times. Professional wrestlers appeared in Edo period and matches were held to raise money to construct shrines and temples or the new bridge. In 1909 sumo was designated as the national sport.  In a Sumo match two wrestlers wearing only loincloths wrestle in 4.5meter diameter ring until one of them is pushed out or touches the ground with any part of body except the soles of his feet.  There are six […]