Trivia you’ll want to share once you know it! A quiz collection of surprising, little-known facts about sumo

driving

Active sumo wrestlers are not allowed to drive cars in their daily lives. This is because, in the past, wrestlers caused multiple traffic accidents, including tragic ones. Therefore, driving was prohibited to protect everyone’s safety. However, they are allowed to obtain a driver’s license and attend driving schools.

“Chanko” refers to meals prepared by the person on cooking duty in a sumo stable. Not only hot pot dishes, but also curry and hamburg steak are considered chanko. Because it’s easy to make in large quantities, hot pots became common, and “chanko-nabe” became famous.

Do not wash

The mawashi used in sumo is not washed. Instead, the dirt is brushed off and it is dried in the sun. This reflects a wish to “not wash away defeats.” Also, because washing it with water weakens the fabric, mawashi are carefully used without washing.

Winning technique

In sumo, the technique used when a bout is decided is called a “kimarite.” The Japan Sumo Association classifies sumo techniques into 82 techniques and five non-technique outcomes. These five represent cases where the match is decided by things like a wrestler falling on his own. Looking at the kimarite in this way reveals the depth of sumo.

15 days

A Grand Sumo tournament (honbasho) is held over 15 consecutive days. Each wrestler has one bout per day, and their record is determined by the number of wins and losses. With 8 or more wins, it’s called kachikoshi, making it easier to be promoted on the next ranking sheet (banzuke). With 7 or fewer wins, it’s makekoshi, which can result in a drop in rank. Also, wrestlers who achieve good results receive increased prize bonuses (rikishi houshoukin), recognizing their efforts.

I am not carrying a weapon.

Chiri-chōzu is said to have originated long ago when sumo wrestlers used it to show each other that they carried no weapons. They squat, rub their hands together twice, clap once, then spread their hands to the sides and turn the palms from up to down. This derives from the practice of wiping their hands with grass when no purifying water was available.

8

In sumo, there are eight prohibited moves called “kinjite.” You may not punch with a closed fist, grab your opponent’s hair, or attack vital areas such as the eyes. Grabbing the throat, kicking, and forcefully bending the fingers are also forbidden. Committing any of these results in an immediate disqualification. Sumo values competing fairly while showing respect and care for one’s opponent.