The sumo scene is actually so exciting! Three must-see sumo events in Japan in 2025

In Japan, sumo is not just a sport, but also a kind of "ritual" with deep historical and religious significance. The origin of sumo can be traced back over 1500 years, and it was part of Shinto festivals, viewed as a way to please the gods through strength, praying for a good harvest and peace. Modern professional sumo was institutionalized during the Edo period and is maintained by the Japan Sumo Association, which upholds strict hierarchical systems and traditional rituals.

Besides the well-known tournaments at the Tokyo Kokugikan and top-ranked rikishi battles, there are actually many sumo events of various scales and formats across Japan. This article introduces three sumo activities you might have never heard of, from social recruitment contests to baby crying endurance competitions. These events feature not only strength and technique but also parent-child interactions and cultural elements. Watching sumo is actually quite interesting!

World Expo Grand Sumo Tournament: Watch the Rikishi's Dashing Entrance Up Close!

Location: EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"

Date: August 3, 2025 (Sunday)

During the 2025 Osaka Kansai World Expo, exciting sumo activities will be held! Even outside traditional sumo venues, you can enjoy this national sport of Japan. The event will feature matches with active rikishi, ritual demonstrations (such as dohyo-iri, yumi-tori), and fan interaction segments, allowing spectators to experience the charm of rikishi up close.

If you've only seen sumo on TV before, this event in the Osaka area is a great introduction—it's not too serious and very entertaining! However, for detailed information, please refer to the official final announcement.

Kompira Festival Baby Crying Sumo & Children's Parade: Does Crying Win? A Culturally Rich and Cute Competition

Location: Chokoji Temple

Date: June 1, 2025 (Sunday)

This festival combines Shinto rituals with sumo culture, featuring adorable "baby sumo" as the main attraction. The core activity is "crying sumo," where two babies are lifted into the ring by sumo rikishi, and the one who cries first wins! It is said that the earlier a baby cries, the better it is for warding off evil and ensuring safety—a traditional blessing ritual.

The overall atmosphere is lively and warm. Not only do parent-child families participate, but many tourists also come to experience the fusion of Japanese festivals and sumo culture. This is definitely a side of sumo you've never seen before!

54th National Social Sumo Selection Tournament: Intense Competition Among Amateur Strengths

Location: Tsubata Town Permanent Sumo Arena, next to Tsubata Elementary School Ground

Date: August 3, 2025 (Sunday)

This is a national tournament for non-professional sumo wrestlers, open to social participants from all over Japan. Contestants come from various backgrounds and ages, united by their love for sumo.

The competition is held outdoors next to a local elementary school, creating a less formal atmosphere than professional tournaments, with a warm community feel. It offers a window into grassroots sumo in Japan.

Sumo is not just a competition, but also a part of life! Whether it's professional rikishi tours, amateur battles, or baby crying endurance contests, these activities show us that sumo is never just a national sport but also a rhythm of Japanese culture. It involves solemn rituals, adorable moments, respect for strength, and blessings for life.

If you're visiting Japan in summer, consider adding these activities to your itinerary for a unique "sumo cultural experience journey." You might fall in love with this traditional sport that seems serious but is full of human warmth!