To all of you who are studying Japanese, or are about to study Japanese. “Sumo” is often a theme in Japanese language textbooks. However, not many people have actually seen sumo. In Fukuoka, you can watch sumo matches every November. The location of the event depends on the time of year: January, May, and September in Tokyo, March in Osaka, July in Nagoya, and November in Fukuoka. The only chance to see sumo in Fukuoka is in November, so when tickets go on sale, the best seats sell out quickly. I went to see sumo for the first time this year, but I could not get good seats.
〇The Beginning of Sumo
Sumo wrestling has been held annually as a divination ritual to celebrate the harvest of the year’s crops. This became a court event and training for samurai warriors in combat. In the Edo period (1603-1868), sumo became a profession. From there, sumo was regularly performed, powerful wrestlers emerged, and the foundation of today’s sumo was established. Sumo, along with kabuki, became a popular pastime for the general public.
〇Life of Sumo Wrestlers
Rikishi(=sumo wrestlers) practice early in the morning, bathe, eat, and take naps. This is to rest their bodies and fatten them up. It is also important for rikishi to build a large body. Therefore, they eat a lot of dishes. They eat a lot of “chanko,” which is made of meat, seafood, tofu, and vegetables. Chanko is said to be a very healthy nabe. In addition to this, some rooms also have chicken karaage, curry, tonkatsu, and other dishes. Newer rikishi, who weigh less, are fed more before bed. This is how they build that big body.
〇Finally
Many people may think of sumo when they think of Japan, but it is rare to be able to see a live sumo performance; if you study at NILS, you may have a chance to see it locally. Furthermore, at the Fukuoka event, you will be close enough to see the rikishi as they enter and exit the venue. Why don’t you come and study in Fukuoka where you can experience sumo?
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