From Tokyo to the Thames

Sumo Wrestlers Bring ancient Japan to London: London's Royal Albert Hall has swapped violins for loincloths this week as 40 sumo wrestlers take part in the city's first Grand Sumo Tournament in 34 years. The five-day event marks the Japan Sumo Association's first outing abroad since 2013, bringing the ancient sport's rituals and muscle to one of the world's most iconic stages.

For one week, a corner of London has been transformed into a pocket of ancient Japan, with dozens of sumo wrestlers descending on the city in a rare foray outside the sport's homeland.

The Royal Albert Hall, world-renowned as a concert venue, is housing an authentic soil-and-sand dohyo, or wrestling ring, and a striking roof reminiscent of a Shinto shrine.

Thousands of fans packed the venue in west London for the opening night of the five-day Grand Sumo Tournament on Wednesday featuring 40 rikishi, including megastars Onosato and Hoshoryu.

It is the first time the Japan Sumo Association (JSA) has staged an event outside Japan since 2013, when the wrestlers competed in Jakarta – and marks a return to London after a 34-year absence.

"I want to show people the good things about sumo," said Ukrainian wrestler Aonishiki, who won his opening bout.

"You only usually see sumo in Japan, so there aren't any people walking around Europe with topknots and kimonos. I hope it will be a good chance to interact with people."

- France24

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