Sumo 14-11-2011!

Lots of things happening in Fukuoka this week! We went to one of the bigger events. Sumo!! There are only 6 tournaments, or Basho, every year so it is a pretty special cultural experience to be able and go to one of the games. We did of course and as our 12 man strong group invaded the Sumo stadium we were all amazed by the hustle and bustle that involves one of the tournaments.

A sumo tournament takes around 15 days to complete. We went in the first week on one of the first days so it would be less crowed. Now this does not mean it isn't crowded. There were people everywhere, sumo and spectators. There was food, drinks, shouting. Loads of rituals with singing and drums. And then you haven't even gotten to the fight yet. Wrestlers poised to strike at each other but first trying to stare their opponent down. They sometimes do this for a couple of minutes before they actually start the fight, cleansing the ring with salt every time they enter it. A true spectacle of culture.

The fights of course are also great things to watch. Bursts of energy that last a couple of seconds. Sometimes ending spectacularly with a sumo wrestler flying out of the ring! Needles to say everyone enjoyed the tournament a lot and we definitely plan to go back next year and take more of you guys and girls to watch this exciting Japanese sport. Please join!