Today’s post is on a journey to Ryogoku, Tokyo, where my friends and I recently delved into the captivating world of sumo wrestling.  

 

Ryogoku Station.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From the moment we stepped into the legendary Ryogoku Sumo Hall, we were immersed in a thrilling spectacle that exceeded our wildest expectations.  

Prepare for the clash of the flesh! 

 

Check out my instagram too!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdwoaptPMmf/

 

Inside the Kokugikan (Sumo hall)

 

 

Ryogoku’s awe-inspiring Sumo Hall, Kokugikan is so symbolic with its architecture one can easily associate its tradition of Sumo by just looking at it. 

It is a stage for the one of the most traditional sports and a sacred religious service of Shintoism.  

(Doesn’t the roof above remind you gateway at the entrance to a Shinto shrine?)

 

In fact, in this country, Sumo wrestling is more than just a sport; it’s a celebration of Japanese culture. 

If you want to find out their meticulous rituals and the respectful exchanges between opponents, do check out this Netflix documentary on Way of Sumo

It provided us with a deeper understanding of the traditions that have shaped this ancient art.

 

 

Here’s the wrestlers entering the hall, up close.

Rikishi (sumo wrestlers)

One of the most popular Rikishi, “Tobizaru” entering the hall.  (https://www.sumo.or.jp/EnSumoDataRikishi/profile/3594)

As we enter inside, the cheers and chants of spectators reverberated through the arena, creating an atmosphere of collective anticipation and enthusiasm.

Watching the mighty sumo wrestlers in action was a sight to behold.  Their bodies, their fully charged spirit.  

Their incredible strength and agility were on full display, captivating us with each intense clash.  

Imagine the fear of clashing into other being with full power and might, it must be so terrifying.  

 

Here, check out the wrestlers in action.  

🎦 Sumo wrestlers in action

 

 

Yokozuna, the current champion of the tournament in the middle.  

 

 

Yokozuna, on the left, the current Champion of the tournament.

 

 

By the way, you could also indulge with variety of food and beverages available to purchase inside the hall.  

You can drink and dine watching the matches too.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chanko (a Japanese stew (a type of nabemono or one-pot dish) commonly eaten in vast quantity by sumo wrestlers as part of a weight-gain diet.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I guarantee you the indomitable spirit of the sumo wrestlers will have you left with inspiration on their perseverance and traditional passion having seen the matches. 

 

Whether you’re a dedicated sports enthusiast or simply curious about Japanese culture, a visit to Ryogoku Sumo Hall promises an unforgettable experience that will resonate with you long after you leave. 

 

 

TUP: “Sumo Wrestling” in Ryogoku 

Sumida-ward, Tokyo

Tokyo Ulysses Project no. 003-0003 

 

#Tokyo Ulysses Project

 

 

 

 

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO HERE! 

 
 
 
 
 
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Fabio T. Nishi(@fabiocaipirinha)がシェアした投稿