Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Enjoying the local spectator sport



If cricket is like a banquet, sumo wrestling is like a Japanese formal meal - lots of little bits with lots of tradition, ceremony and talking.  

Today we spent the day at a sumo tournament.  (1-6pm)

It was interesting, fun and I would even consider going again.  But next time we might go for one of those seats which are cushions on the floor.  I don't think the seats were designed for gaijin.  

The event was made up of lots of bouts.  The two sumos would be announced, get onto the platform, do some squatting exercises and a side kick in the air (they're surprisingly flexible and agile), glare at each other, prepare to start, then walk away.  The would wipe their face, throw some salt onto the floor and prepare again.  They could go through these steps a few times before they actually started wrestling.  (Apparently there is now a four minute restriction, but before that they could significantly delay the match).   The match begins when both opponents touch their knuckles to the floor.  The it's fast!  Often within a few seconds the game would be over.  A few times it ended spectacularly with one opponent being hurled out of the ring, other times, it was just a foot over.  But every match was fast and powerful.  

If you ever get the chance to see a game, take it!   Just remember to take your own snacks... we were a bit hungry by the end of the day.  

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