Sumo, with over 1,500 years of history, is a religious rite, a deep-rooted part of traditional Japanese culture with a rich aesthetic, and a combative sport. Due to international broadcasts and the number of foreign born rikishi performing at the highest levels, Sumo’s international appeal continues to grow. This book is the product of a combined effort by writer Ito Katsuharu, and translator David Shapiro who is a commentator on NHK’s sumo broadcasts. The book contains explanations of Sumo techniques, rituals, and semantics and the use of traditional woodblock prints as illustrations enhances a greater sense of Sumo’s history.
194 pages
ills colour & bw
14 x 19 cm
Japanese/English
