Origin and History of Sumo
"Dohyoiri" (entering the Sumo ring) of the ceremonial tournament held in the shrine's precincts Sumo is one of the oldest sports and has a history of over 1,500 years. The oldest chronicles of Japan; Kojiki (712) and the Nihon Shoki (720) have myths and tales of physical contests which are considered as the origins of Sumo. Apart from the myths and tales, the first sumo matches were a form of ritual dedicated to the gods, to pray for a bountiful harvest or fortune telling by farmers in the Yayoi Period (the 4th century B.C. - the 3rd century). The 8th century (The Nara Period) sumo was introduced into the ceremonies of the Imperial Court. "Sumai no Sachie" a wrestling festival watched by the emperor "Sumai no Sechie" a wrestling festival watched by the emperor was held annually as the important ritual to pray for a rich harvest and the peace of the land in Heian period (794 - 1185). Imperial Court sent scouts out over the country and ...
