2024 Grand Sumo Tournament @ Ryogoku Kokugikan in Toyko, Japan

[TrekRover]

Yesterday was the kick-off of the last Sumo tournament of 2024. I had a rare opportunity to be able to attend and photograph first day of the tournament. If you're not familiar with Sumo, "it is a form of competitive full-contact wrestling where a rikishi (wrestler) attempts to force his opponent out of a circular ring (dohyō) or into touching the ground with any body part other than the soles of his feet (usually by throwing, shoving or pushing him down). Sumo originated in Japan, the only country where it is practiced professionally and where it is considered the national sport."

I really enjoyed experiencing the atmosphere/vibe, the process/rituals, and the athletes competing. I took these photos with Sony a1 and 70-200 GM2.