Sumo grapples with ancient rule in era of Japan’s woman PM

Japan Sumo Association Chairman Hakkaku (centre) during the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka. PIC/AFP

The world of sumo could be rocked this month if Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi presents a trophy in the ring, where women have traditionally been banned.

The issue

Sumo grew out of ancient Shinto religious rituals and its origins can be traced back over 2,000 years, according to some historians. The practice of banning women from the ring stems from the Shinto notion that menstrual blood would defile its "purity". The champion wrestler at each of the six professional sumo tournaments held annually is presented with a large silver trophy called the Prime Minister's Cup.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. PIC/AFP

The trophy is usually presented by a member of Japan's cabinet, but occasionally the prime minister will step into the ring to hand it over themselves. Takaichi became Japan's first woman prime minister last month. Questions are being asked over whether she will present the trophy at the ongoing Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament, which concludes on November 23.

Has it been done before?

Women and girls can compete in amateur sumo worldwide but they are traditionally barred from the professional version, which only takes place in Japan. Japan's first woman Chief Cabinet Secretary Mayumi Moriyama expressed a desire to present the trophy in 1990, but her request was turned down by the Japan Sumo Association.

What has been said?

So far, Takaichi hasn't expressed an opinion on presenting the trophy. When asked this week if she planned to make a request, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said no decision had been made. "Prime Minister Takaichi wishes to preserve the traditions of sumo culture," he added.

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