If you ever have the opportunity to watch live Sumo Wrestling, we suggest you take it. The world of Sumo has so much tradition, pageantry and, importantly – agility and strength.

There are many rituals but just a few basic rules for this national sport. The bout takes place on an elevated ring called a ‘dohyo’. The dohyo is made of clay and covered in sand. Straw bales mark the circle.

A ‘rikishi’ or wrestler loses the bout if he leaves the ring first, usually as a result of being thrown by his opponent. A wrestler can also lose if he is the first to touch the ground with any part of his body (apart from his feet). He can even lose if his big toe or heel goes over the straw bales marking the circle.

Wrestlers are not allowed to use their fists. They are also forbidden to pull hair, choke, or kick in the stomach or chest.

At the end of the wrestling day, a Sumo wrestler performs a bow ceremony, yet another unique ritual. This traditional and brilliant routine with a twirling bow originated as a result of a victorious wrestler being presented with a bow as a prize and then celebrating his victory.

Six tournaments are held in Japan each year at various locations. The photographs on this page were taken at Ryogoku Kokugikan Tokyo.

Sumo wrestling is a great spectacle and highly recommended.