Sumo wrestlers compete at annual Honozumo in Tokyo
Around 8,000 spectators attended the ceremonial spring festival sumo event that showcased the most successful sumo wrestler of all-time, Yokozuna Hakuho. The annual Honozumo at Yasukuni Shrine, is seen as a symbol of Japan’s past militarism by many in Asia. The day started with a blessing of Shinto’s religious gods and wishing peace for all.
Sumo wrestlers compete during the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
Sumo wrestlers perform a show fight during the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
Sumo wrestlers line up as they pray before the start of the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
Sumo wrestlers line up to leave after praying before the start of the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament dedicated to the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo, Japan.Yuya Shino/Reuters
A sumo wrestler grabs salt before competing at the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
Mongolia-born grand sumo champion Yokozuna Hakuho throws salt during the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
Sumo wrestlers perform a show fight during the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
Mongolia-born grand sumo champion Yokozuna Hakuho performs a ring-entering rite during the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
A sumo wrestler poses with a child for pictures during the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters
A sumo wrestler leaves the ring during the annual 'Honozumo' ceremonial sumo tournament.Yuya Shino/Reuters