Introduction

In the world of sumo, a shikona is much more than a stage name. It embodies the wrestler’s life story, career progression, and the traditions of their training stable. This article explains why the shikona is so special, outlining its meaning and naming conventions in a way that’s easy to understand.

Every January, the Ryogoku Kokugikan transforms into a stage of tradition and discipline, as sumo wrestlers compete in the Hatsu Basho. This event is not only about sports but also a deeply cultural experience, offering international visitors a front-row seat to Japanese history, ritual, and passion.

The world of sumo is not only seen, but also felt through scent.One of its most iconic elements is bintsuke abura, the hair oil used to shape a wrestler’s topknot.This fragrance carries history, ritual, and identity, making it an invisible yet powerful symbol of Japanese culture.

“Ude wo kaesu” is a key motion in the push-and-pull battle of sumo wrestling. In this guide, we explore when and why this technique is used, offering clear explanations even for those with no prior knowledge of sumo. Learn how this single movement shapes matches from start to finish.

When watching sumo, you may notice that wrestlers often angle their bodies slightly instead of facing their opponents head-on. This is called "hanmi", and it plays a crucial role in both offense and defense. For beginners and foreign viewers, grasping this concept makes the sport more strategic, more exciting, and far more understandable.

For those new to sumo, the techniques may seem intense and difficult to follow at first. However, Hazu-oshi offers an ideal entry point thanks to its simplicity and effectiveness. In this guide, we will explain how Hazu-oshi works, why it’s valuable, and what makes it a favored move among both novice and experienced rikishi.

For those just discovering the world of sumo, terms like rikishi and sekitori can be confusing. Among them, "Rikishi Yoseiin" refers to wrestlers who are not yet professionals—but train every day under intense discipline. This guide provides a beginner-friendly explanation of their role, life, and how they climb the sumo ladder. If you’re curious about what it really takes to become a top wrestler, this is where the journey begins.

Sumo wrestlers don’t always train in the comfort of their own stables. Through "degeiko", they challenge themselves by entering unfamiliar training grounds, facing new opponents, and growing through adversity. This article will explain why this tradition remains essential in shaping the mind and technique of sumo athletes.

The sumo championship playoff takes place only when the tournament ends with wrestlers tied for the lead, making it one of the most dramatic moments in the sport. This single match embodies the spirit of fairness and decisive competition, offering beginners a clear and exciting entry point into the world of sumo.

In sumo, few announcements stir the crowd like the phrase “kore yori sanyaku.” It signals that the top-ranked wrestlers are about to compete, creating a sense of anticipation unique to this traditional sport. By learning the meaning and significance of this term, you gain deeper insight into the cultural richness and competitive spirit that define Japan’s national sport.