Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of a sumo stable, and you'll witness wrestlers meticulously preparing for the upcoming Grand Sumo Tournament in January. Each wrestler you observe will be participating in this prestigious event, adding an extra layer of intensity to their training sessions.
The experience is far removed from the staged 'sumo shows' you may have seen before. Here, every wrestler belongs to the Japan Sumo Association, the sole governing body of professional sumo in Japan. Unlike performers who aim to entertain, these professionals are solely focused on advancing their ranks through rigorous practice.
In the stable you visit, two top-division wrestlers stand out. Observe the gruelling challenge faced by lower-ranked wrestlers as they strive to usurp these positions. Despite the intense and unapproachable aura during practice, once off the ring, the wrestlers exude friendliness, even posing for commemorative photos with visitors. This authentic glimpse into the world of professional sumo wrestling is sure to leave a lasting impression.
