National & International Kushiro Women's Sumo Tournament

About this event

Held at a special venue within the grounds of Tottori Shrine in Kushiro City, Eastern Hokkaido, the 'National & International Kushiro Women's Sumo Tournament' is a traditional Shinto ritual event that doubles as a fun, recreational tournament for amateur female wrestlers. Every year, participants gather from across Japan, and the number of international participants has also been growing in recent years. The tournament is held during the Tottori Shrine Festival in a lively, festive atmosphere. Wrestlers are announced with creative ring names, and special prizes are awarded for unique sumo names (shikona). Plentiful prizes are prepared for all competitors win or lose; with an entry fee of 1,000 yen, even losing in the first round awards 5,000 yen in cash to encourage participants. The winner receives a championship trophy and cash prize. On the day of the event, original T-shirts, shorts, and mawashi (sarashi cloth belts) are available to rent free of charge, and many wrestlers wear athletic leggings underneath. Although Kushiro can have strong sunshine in September, the wind brings cool temperatures, so bringing a light layer to wear is recommended. In case of rain, the tournament will be moved to a nearby gymnasium. The tournament takes place on the middle day of the three-day Tottori Shrine Festival and is a major local attraction drawing around 800 spectators around the sumo ring.

Venue

Tottori Shrine

4-2-18 Tottori-odori, Kushiro, Hokkaido 084-0906