The Sumo Scene / Takerufuji Celebrates Victory with Parade in Hometown

Sumo Wrestling is a sport that holds a special place in the hearts of the Japanese. With a history of over a thousand years, this sport has been a symbol of strength, perseverance, and tradition. One of the most significant moments in a sumo wrestler's career is winning the Emperor's Cup, a coveted prize awarded to the winner of each tournament. However, there is another equally important honor that comes with the win, a victory parade that showcases the champion to the fans who couldn’t attend the tournament. The parade takes place soon after the tournament ends, where the champion wrestler rides in an open-top car in the vicinity of the Ryogoku Kokugikan or regional tournament venues. With a flag-bearer by their side, the wrestler circles the area, waving to the fans lining the streets. The parade is an opportunity for the fans to see their champion up close and personal and celebrate their victory once again. For the wrestlers, winning the Emperor's Cup is the ultimate goal. It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and their undying spirit. The tournament is divided into two categories, the Makuuchi and the Juryo. The Makuuchi is the top division, and the wrestlers who compete in this division are the elite. The Juryo is the second-highest division, and the wrestlers who compete in this division aspire to graduate to the Makuuchi division. The tournament lasts for 15 days, and each day is filled with excitement, drama, and sheer skill. The wrestlers enter the dohyo or the wrestling ring, dressed only in a loincloth, and face each other in a battle of strength and technique. A typical bout lasts for less than a minute, and the winner is the wrestler who pushes their opponent out of the ring or makes them touch the ground with any part of their body, except their feet. The victorious wrestler who wins the Emperor’s Cup and the accompanying cash prize is instantly elevated to the status of a national hero. It is a moment of immense pride and joy for the wrestler and their fans alike. The victory parade, which follows the next day, is an equally important event, where the wrestler can show their gratitude to their supporters and share their moment of triumph with the people. Sumo Wrestling continues to thrive as a sport in Japan, with its rich traditions and history. The victory parade is a reminder of the importance of this sport in Japanese culture and a celebration of the human spirit, determination, and hard work. For those who witness the parade and the spectacle that it creates, it is an experience that they will never forget, a memory that they will always cherish, and a tribute to the sport that continues to inspire generations