The Ōichō is a distinctive hairstyle worn by sumo wrestlers, named for its resemblance to a ginkgo leaf. Reserved only for wrestlers ranked as sekitori or higher, it symbolizes their status and pride as professionals in the sumo world.
What is the “Ōichō”
The Ōichō is a distinctive hairstyle worn by sumo wrestlers, with the tip of the topknot spreading out widely like the leaf of a ginkgo tree. This shape is not merely decorative—it is an important element symbolizing sumo culture, history, and the pride of the wrestler. A well-crafted topknot, together with the wrestler’s posture and etiquette on the dohyo, leaves an impression of beauty and power on spectators. The Ōichō is a hairstyle permitted only to wrestlers ranked as sekitori or higher, and its very existence is proof of status and effort.
Origins and Historical Background of the Ōichō
The history of the Ōichō dates back to the Edo period. At that time, wearing a topknot was an important indicator of one’s social status or occupation among samurai and townspeople. Sumo spread as a pastime among the samurai, and wrestlers’ topknots were influenced by warrior culture. Especially in the late Edo period, the wrestlers’ topknots became more decorative, evolving into shapes that would stand out in the dohyo. The fan-shaped spread at the tip of the Ōichō was not only visually striking but also a practical improvement to keep the knot from coming undone during a match. This shape is not just a form of traditional beauty, but a design that balances aesthetics with functionality in the heat of competition.
| Period | Topknot Features | Evolution of Ōichō |
|---|---|---|
| Early Edo | Similar to samurai topknot | Small spread, practical focus |
| Late Edo | More decorative | Fan-shaped spread established |
| Meiji onwards | Became a sumo symbol | Greater emphasis on beauty |
Requirements to Wear the Ōichō
Not all wrestlers are allowed to wear the Ōichō. It is generally permitted only to wrestlers who have been promoted to the rank of jūryō or higher (sekitori). Wrestlers below this rank, in the makushita division and lower, wear a simpler “chonmage” topknot. Upon becoming a sekitori, a wrestler’s topknot will be styled into a formal Ōichō by a specialist hairdresser known as a tokoyama. This promotion marks a major turning point for a wrestler, and wearing the Ōichō is both a mark of status and the first step toward success in the sumo world.
| Rank | Type of Topknot |
|---|---|
| Makushita and below | Chonmage |
| Jūryō & Makuuchi | Ōichō |
How the Ōichō is Styled and the Required Skill
Styling the Ōichō requires the skill of an experienced tokoyama. First, the hair is smoothed out and hair oil is applied for shine. Then, the base of the knot is tied securely, and the tip is spread out into a fan shape. Special hair oils, combs, and washi paper are used to maintain the shape. The texture and length of the wrestler’s hair also affect the final result, and it takes the expertise of a tokoyama with years of experience to create a beautiful Ōichō.
| Step | Description | Tools Used |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Wash hair, apply oil | Hair oil, comb |
| Forming the knot | Tie base, shape knot | Motoyui cord, washi |
| Finishing | Spread tip, adjust shape | Special comb |
Cultural Significance of the Ōichō
The Ōichō is more than just a hairstyle—it is a symbol of a wrestler’s rank, dedication, and the traditions of sumo. During the tachiai (initial charge) or the shikiri (pre-match stance), the Ōichō enhances the wrestler’s upright posture and commanding presence. It also draws attention during ceremonial ring-entering rituals and retirement ceremonies, remaining in the memories of fans as a symbol of a wrestler’s career. For wrestlers, the Ōichō is both a badge of pride and a mark of responsibility, and for spectators, it embodies the appeal of sumo itself.
Conclusion
In recent years, sumo has gained international popularity, with many foreign wrestlers achieving success. They too take pride in wearing the Ōichō, respecting Japanese tradition. On the international stage, when sumo is showcased, the Ōichō often attracts the media’s and the audience’s attention due to its striking visual impact. As an introduction to understanding sumo culture, the Ōichō leaves a strong impression on overseas audiences. As a traditional beauty that transcends borders, the Ōichō will continue to stand as a symbol of sumo.
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