Grand Sumo events held in Kobe and Nagoya

Grand Sumo events and tours have recently been held in Kobe and Nagoya, offering fans unique opportunities to experience the national sport live.

In Kobe, the autumn tour returned to the Green Arena Kobe after an eight-year hiatus. The event featured various traditional demonstrations, including hair-styling (kamiyui) and sumo songs (sumo jinku). High-ranking wrestlers such as Ozeki Kotozakura and Wakamotoharu participated in talks, while Yokozuna Terunofuji performed the ceremonial ring-entering ritual (dohyo-iri).

In Nagoya, spectators gathered at the IG Arena for the Nagoya Basho. The venue hosted traditional sumo cuisine, such as chanko nabe, and displayed championship trophies. Fans noted the intense atmosphere and the physical impact of the matches, which provided a sensory experience distinct from television broadcasts.