TOKYO - A sumo-themed business in Tokyo's historic Asakusa district is proving a hit with foreign tourists, with its shows selling out as visitors get the opportunity to get up close and personal with former wrestlers.
At the Asakusa Sumo Club, visitors learn the basic stances and movements of sumo, as well as its rules and history, all in English. They even spar with former wrestlers, the show offering a rare glimpse into the world of the traditional Japanese sport, which is dominated by rigid rules and rituals.
The popularity of sumo is booming, both at home and abroad. Inbound tourists account for 20 to 30 percent of the audience at the six regular grand sumo tournaments held each year. The Japan Sumo Association's exhibition tour in Paris in June sold out its 15,000-seat venue on both days.
"It's amazing to experience sumo, which I saw on TV 30 years ago,” said Stefaan Debie, who is visiting Japan with his family from Belgium. "They were like totally immovable walls," the 45-year-old added excitedly.
Sumo has become a kind of traditional soft power, with the sport known for preserving rituals derived from Shintoism such as holding ring-entering ceremonies and scattering salt.
Shows at the sumo club are held four times daily. Despite a downward trend of foreign visitors to Japan in recent months compared to last year, the trend of "sold out" crowds look set to continue.
