This was my first time watching Sumo live, and man, it was an awesome experience. The skill of the wrestlers isn’t nearly as visible when watching on TV (which I had done many times over the years until finally going to see for myself). I highly recommend trying to catch an tournament when in Japan – a spectacle to see despite all the scandals that have surrounded it over the last ten years or so.

Once there, it’s almost like you can feel the thunderous slams and body slapping. I realized that these are amazing athletes with incredible strength, agility, and balance.

I wish I had gone more often during my time in Japan.