[Yokozuna]

“Yokozuna” is the highest rank of sumo wrestlers. Originally, it referred to a rikishi of exceptional ability (in principle, an ozeki) who was permitted to enter the ring with a white hemp shimenawa rope tied around his waist. The name “yokozuna” was derived from the term “yokozuna,” and the title “yokozuna” came to be used to refer to a rikishi who was permitted to wear the rope, and the rank of yokozuna was also listed on the ranking chart as a rank of rikishi.

To become yokozuna, a rikishi must not only meet the promotion requirements of winning two consecutive ozeki tournaments or achieving the equivalent, but also possess the dignity and outstanding ability required for the position. A rikishi who is not a yokozuna may be demoted to a position more commensurate with his ability, but a yokozuna is not demoted; he is retired when he can no longer fulfill his duties as yokozuna. It is a very tough world.

So what is the “dignity” of a yokozuna? The Japan Sumo Association defines it as follows: 1. devotion to the sport of sumo, 2. a sense of responsibility for the position, 3. a sense of responsibility to society, 4. a sensible attitude toward life, and 5. other requirements of a yokozuna. As these requirements show, a yokozuna is not only expected to perform well in the ring, but also to have a high level of character and to serve as a role model for others in society.

Despite the strictness and stoicism of the world of sumo wrestlers, the Sumo created by Ceramic Japan of Seto City, Aichi Prefecture, a pottery town with a 1,300-year history, is humorous and charming in its poses, sure to soothe the hearts of those who see it. The paintings are hand-painted by craftsmen, and the secret of their cuteness is that each has an exquisitely different expression.

In October 2025, the Japan Sumo Association will hold its first overseas sumo tournament in 20 years in London. This may be an opportunity for us to rediscover the charm of sumo, a symbol of Japanese culture, as not only the serious competition on the ring, but also the spirit and traditions of sumo are widely transmitted to the world.

Ceramic Japan's Sumo
https://www.shokunin.com/en/ceramicjapan/sumo.html

References
https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%A8%AA%E7%B6%B1
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20241129/k10014653691000.html