FAQ About Japanese Culture

Sumo wrestling is a traditional Japanese sport that holds cultural, historical, and ritualistic significance. It involves two wrestlers, or "rikishi," competing in a circular ring called a "dohyo." The main objective is to force the opponent out of the ring or make any part of their body, other than the soles of their feet, touch the ground. Sumo wrestling is not only a physical competition but also a deeply rooted cultural practice with its own rituals and traditions. Here's an overview of the purpose of sumo wrestling and its associated rituals:

1. Physical Competition:

Sumo is a highly physical sport that requires strength, technique, strategy, and agility. It showcases the power and skill of the wrestlers as they grapple and maneuver to gain an advantage over their opponents.

2. Cultural Significance:

Sumo has deep historical and cultural roots in Japan. It dates back to ancient times and is intertwined with Shinto rituals and beliefs.

3. Rituals and Traditions:

Sumo matches are surrounded by rituals and traditions that highlight the spiritual and ceremonial aspects of the sport. These rituals are performed to purify the dohyo and pay homage to the Shinto deities:

• Dohyo-iri: Before each day of matches, wrestlers perform the dohyo-iri ritual. This involves a series of precise movements, including clapping and stamping, to purify the dohyo and prepare for the day's competition.
• Shiko: Wrestlers perform a stomping exercise called "shiko" to remove evil spirits from the dohyo and display their physical strength.
• Salt Tossing: Before entering the ring, wrestlers toss salt into the ring as a symbolic purification ritual to ward off evil spirits and create a sacred space.
• Gyoji and Referee Rituals: The referee, known as the "gyoji," wears traditional attire and performs his own rituals before the match begins. These rituals include raising the fan and reciting formal phrases.
• Kesho-mawashi: Wrestlers wear elaborate aprons called "kesho-mawashi" during the dohyo-iri. These aprons are embroidered with symbols and designs that represent their sponsors and rank.
• Hakkeyoi: The referee's call to begin the match is called "hakkeyoi." It signals the start of the bout and is accompanied by specific hand claps and shouts.

4. Connection to Shintoism:

Sumo wrestling has strong ties to Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan. The rituals performed before matches are rooted in Shinto practices that purify the ring and seek divine protection.

5. Symbolism:

Sumo's rituals and rules are laden with symbolism, reflecting concepts of purity, honor, respect, and the harmony between the spiritual and physical aspects of the sport.