Yasukuni Shrine "Honozumo" Sumo

Ceremonial Sumo tournament

Chris White Jul 23, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>The sumo wrestlers seem so laid back as they wait for the action to begin - they are happy to stop and chat with fans as they wait</p>

<p>The sumo wrestlers arrive early and mingle with fans as the stroll through Yasukuni Shrine towards the arena</p>

<p>TV crews and news studios arrive and set up ready for the ceremony to begin</p>

<p>The action begins! The intimate arena means you are never far for the action</p>

<p>Every seat has a great view, as the best Sumo Wrestlers demonstrate their skills for the crowds</p>

<p>It's a big occasion, so there are plenty of food stalls setting up to keep the fans happy</p>

If you are lucky enough to be in Tokyo for cherry blossom season, you might be even luckier and get to see the best sumo wrestlers fight - for free! The annual Honozumo ceremonial sumo festival is held in early April at the controversial Yasukuni Shrine and it doesn't cost a penny - though spaces are limited so don't turn up too late! The arena is small, but gives every spectator a fantastic view of the action. You will also get a chance to mingle amongst the wrestlers as they arrive and stroll through the shrine grounds to the arena. Visit the website for dates etc, though it only shows the current year. They tour Japan, so you might be able to catch them in other Japanese cities if you are not in Tokyo. Enjoy!

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Chris White @chris.white

Japan obsessive, vegetarian, amateur photographer and webmaster for www.vegetariantokyo.com Visiting Tokyo isn't easy for Vegetarians and Vegans, and this is what encouraged me to start the website - I felt there wasn't enough help on the internet for travellers, so I hope people find it helpf...