The Dynamics of The Sumo World! The Ultimate Sumo Match Experience with Food and Sake

Explore The World of Sumo and Experience The Unfamiliar Culture!

Visit the unfamiliar and unique world of sumo through the eyes of a sumo enthusiast! Special guest and author of “SUMO: The Thinking Fan’s Guide to Japan’s National Sport,” David Benjamin, will introduce the different aspects of sumo culture from the perspective of a foreigner living in Japan. You will also get to watch some of the remarkable sumo matches with interactive sessions and live sumo demonstrations. Want a taste of a real sumo meal? A special tasting reception will be held where you’ll be able to try the traditional Japanese Chanko-nabe (Sumo stew) while sipping fine sake. At the end of the event, you will have the opportunity to meet and get your book signed by David.

About SUMO

Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport with over 1,500 years of history and is an integral part of Japanese culture. The sport involves two wrestlers wearing Mawashi (the Sumo belt) competing inside a Dohyo (a fighting ring made of soil). The origin of Sumo appeared in ancient mythology. It later became a fortune-telling ritual in Japan’s imperial palace, soon becoming a combat exercise for Bushi (warriors), and eventually, entertainment for the commoners. Sumo still maintains its popularity and has expanded outside of Japan as proven by the fact that many sumo wrestlers are actually foreigners.

About Chanko-nabe

Chanko-nabe (Sumo stew) is known as the primary food for Rikishi (formal name for Sumo wrestler) which helps by supplying nutrients for developing strong and healthy bodies. It is always cooked in a big pot as large quantity is needed to serve many Rikishi at one time. Major ingredients include meat (chicken meatballs, pork), root vegetables (carrot, Japanese radish, burdock root), greens (Chinese cabbage) engulfed in broth such as shio, miso or soy sauce flavor. Each club has their own original recipes. Rikishi usually take naps after lunch to allow for the food to directly convert into fat so that they can beat their enemies in battle.

Competition Between the East and the West (also regarding Sake)!

Sumo matches were formally competitions between the east and the west side of Japan. Presently, sumo matches are played in the round robin fashion regardless of where the Rikishi comes from. However, the concept of the east and the west is still used in the ranking of Rikishi. We will be celebrating this historical custom and will provide sake from the both sides of Japan. You can decide which side you would like to take!

Sake from the East 

Oze no Yukidoke Ohkarakuchi Junmai

Rice-Polishing Ratio: 60%  Dry, gentle and light flavor.

From Gunma Prefecture, Japan.

Sake from the West

Itteki Nyuukon Junmai Ginjo

Rice-Polishing Ratio: 60%  Full-to-medium body, mild aromatic. 

Was awarded the Good in Wine Glass Sake Award 2014

From Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.

Do you want to become a sumo wrestler?

If you are excited about sumos and the matches they play, you can participate in a sumo costume! You’ll get the chance to try some of their techniques and feel the weight of how big the wrestlers are. Experience the dynamics of sumo!