Festival

Hassaku Bull Sumo Tournament

Japanese name:八朔牛突き大会

📅 Sun, Sep 6, 2026

📍 Okinoshima, Shimane

About this event

One of the grand regular tournaments of "Ushitsuki" (bull sumo), a traditional event handed down in Okinoshima Town from ancient times. The powerful spectacle of bulls locking horns and clashing has a history spanning nearly 800 years. This tournament is held every year on September 1 in conjunction with the Hassaku Festival of Dangyo Shrine, taking place at the Sayama Bullring located on the border between Tsuma and Saigo on the island. It is also said to memorialize those who perished in the struggles for supremacy during the Warring States period, carrying a historical background. Bull sumo is promoted outside the island as a highlight of hands-on tourism and exchange initiatives, allowing spectators to watch intense matches from a natural mortar-shaped viewing area. Young supporters of the winning bull leaping onto the bull to celebrate victory is another notable highlight. In addition to this tournament, the "Bull Sumo Summer Tournament" on August 15 and the "Hitotsudake Bull Sumo Tournament" on October 13 are also held annually.

Official website (Japanese) ↗

Venue

Sayama Bullring

Kaminishi, Okinoshima, Oki District, Shimane 685-0026

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