Fukuoka Sumo Tournament
Watch the city’s average BMI double as sumo comes to town each November
Steeped in culture, sumo is japan‘s centuries-old national sport. It is a traditional form of wrestling that dates back to ancient times and is deeply rooted in Japanese history and tradition. Sumo wrestlers, known as rikishi, are revered and respected in Japanese society, and their matches are considered to be highly prestigious and important events.
In Japan, six grand sumo tournaments are held every year, known as honbasho. These tournaments are held in different cities across the country, and each tournament lasts for 15 days. The tournaments are held in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Each tournament attracts thousands of spectators, both locals and tourists, who come to witness the thrilling matches and experience the unique atmosphere of a sumo tournament.
One of the most eagerly anticipated sumo tournaments of the year is held in Fukuoka, a vibrant city located in the southernmost part of Japan’s main island, Kyushu. Fukuoka has the privilege of hosting the November tournament, which is considered to be one of the most prestigious tournaments of the year.
The tournament takes place in the Kokusai Center, a state-of-the-art arena located to the north of Hakata Station. The Kokusai Center is easily accessible by public transportation, and visitors can reach the venue from Fukuoka Airport by subway or bus. The arena is just a short walk from nearby train stations, making it convenient for spectators to attend the matches.
The November tournament in Fukuoka is a major event that attracts sumo fans from all over the world. It showcases the skills and strength of the country’s best sumo wrestlers, who compete against each other in a series of intense matches. The tournament lasts for just over two weeks, with matches held daily from early morning until late in the evening.
Attending a sumo tournament in Fukuoka is a unique and memorable experience. The atmosphere inside the arena is electric, with spectators cheering and shouting as the wrestlers battle it out on the dohyo, or sumo ring. The matches are intense and fast-paced, with the wrestlers using their strength and technique to try and force their opponent out of the ring or to the ground.
Watching the matches is not the only highlight of attending a sumo tournament in Fukuoka. Visitors also have the opportunity to see sumo wrestlers off-duty in town. It is not uncommon to spot sumo wrestlers wandering the streets of Fukuoka during their time off from the competition. Many of them become regulars at the city’s local bathhouses, where they relax and rejuvenate after their matches.
To attend the November sumo tournament in Fukuoka, it is advisable to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets go on sale the month before the event, usually in early October, and they tend to sell out very quickly. There are limited options to get tickets on the day of the event, and those who wish to do so will need to queue early in the morning.
Each day of the tournament is structured by rank, with the best wrestlers performing at the end of the day. If you are a real sumo fan, it is recommended to catch the pre-lunch action to scope out future stars in the junior divisions. The arena is not very large, so even the cheapest seats offer good views of the matches. Additionally, there is plenty of sumo-related memorabilia available for purchase in the foyer of the building.
The November sumo tournament in Fukuoka is not just a sporting event; it is also a celebration of Japanese culture and tradition. The tournament attracts visitors from all over the world who come to experience the unique atmosphere and witness the incredible skill and strength of the sumo wrestlers. It is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan and gain a deeper understanding of this ancient sport.
In addition to the sumo tournament, Fukuoka offers a wealth of other attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. The city is known for its delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and historical sites. Visitors can explore the bustling streets of the city, visit ancient temples and shrines, indulge in local delicacies such as Hakata ramen and mentaiko, and experience the warm hospitality of the local people.
November is an ideal time to visit Fukuoka, as the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is adorned with beautiful autumn foliage. The streets are lined with colorful trees, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploring the city and enjoying the local festivities.
In conclusion, the November sumo tournament in Fukuoka is a must-see event for anyone interested in Japanese culture and tradition. It is a unique opportunity to witness the ancient sport of sumo and experience the electrifying atmosphere of a sumo tournament. Whether you are a die-hard sumo fan or simply curious about this fascinating sport, attending the November tournament in Fukuoka is an experience you will never forget. So mark your calendars and make plans to visit Fukuoka this November to witness the city’s average BMI double as sumo comes to town.
Address And Maps Location:
2-2 Chikkohon-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka-ken
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