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Sun, sand and sumo in Japan
(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-07-24 08:57

TOKYO: Trade in that bikini for a loincloth. Japan's ancient sport sumo is hitting the beach this summer to promote sportsmanship and environmental awareness.

Sun, sand and sumo in Japan

Created by former sumo wrestler Tamakairiki, beach sumo aims to introduce young people to Japan's traditional sport while raising awareness of environmental degradation of beaches.

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"This a great opportunity for kids to be introduced to sumo," said Tamakairiki, whose real name is Yukio Kawabe. "Kids only see sumo on TV so this gives them a chance to experience it up close."

With its strict hierarchy, professional sumo is not an easy sport to get into. Women aren't allowed to compete and many newcomers are unable to cope with the rigid rules of the sport. Tamakairiki hopes his idea will get more young Japanese interested in the sport.

"We haven't had anyone turn professional yet, but you never know," said Tamakairiki. "The kids really enjoy this and it teaches them to deal with physical contact in a safe environment."

Before each tournament, Tamakairiki goes through a list of do's and don'ts, which include punching, pulling hair and, of course, kicking sand in your opponent's face.

Like professional sumo, opponents always bow to each other before and after every bout and throw salt to purify the ring.

"Beaches are threatened by trash and rising sea levels," said Tamakairiki. "We teach kids about beach preservation after every tournament so they come away with an appreciation of beaches and sumo."

AP