What is sumo? ? Basic rules and historical background
Sumo is a traditional Japanese culture and has been loved by many people since ancient times. There are probably many people who would like to know more about sumo.
This article explains the basic rules and historical background of sumo.
What is sumo?
Sumo is a traditional Japanese martial art sport in which two wrestlers compete in a circular ring in which the goal is to push or throw their opponent.
Sumo wrestlers wear special costumes called mawashi, and matches are held according to certain rules.
Historical background of sumo
Listed in Japan's oldest "Kojiki"
The origin of sumo can be found in the Kojiki (712), which includes myths about competitions of strength and battles between Sukune and Kehaya.
Sumo has been held every year to predict the amount of crops that will be harvested that year.
Changed to a battle of strength during the Sengoku period
During the Sengoku period, there were samurai, so sumo tournaments were actively held as training for the samurai.
Oda Nobunaga loved sumo so much that he gathered sumo wrestlers from all over the country and held sumo tournaments.
The current form was established in the Edo period
In the Edo period, many people became professional sumo wrestlers, and sumo was held in various places.
Over the course of sumo's long history, the rules have been decided and it has become what it is today.
Basic knowledge of sumo
Basic rules
•Sumo is held in a circular ring
-The match is decided by pushing the opponent out of the ring or touching the ground with anything other than the soles of their feet.
•Sumo wrestlers must wear a “Mawashi”
-Follow the instructions of the referee and stand with both hands on the ground.
Where can I see it? ?
Sumo is held in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and November, and the location varies depending on the month.
•1.5.9 Location: Tokyo
•March location: Osaka
•July location: Nagoya
•November location: Fukuoka
Official website of the Japan Sumo Association
Official website of Ryogoku Kokugikan
summary
How was that. Sumo is a traditional Japanese culture that has been passed down since ancient times. You can enjoy sumo even more if you know the basic rules and the historical background of sumo. Please come and see sumo wrestling in front of your eyes. You can have a great experience!
Sumo Entertainment Facility "Hirakuza" in Osaka