The Japan Sumo Association (JSA) is set to host its first overseas events in two decades next October in London. The announcement was made recently, with JSA President Hakkaku scheduled to attend a press conference in London ahead of the tour. The event, which will feature competitions among top makuuchi division wrestlers, aims to foster friendship and promote goodwill. This will be JSA’s first visit to London since 1991, a period when the sport was notably popular. With Japan seeing a rise in foreign tourism, sumo tournaments have become a key attraction for international visitors.

The Japan Sumo Association, celebrating its 100th anniversary next year, previously organised 13 international tours starting in 1965, including events in the Soviet Union. Despite the last JSA event abroad occurring in Las Vegas in 2005, other organisations have attempted to promote sumo outside Japan, including locations like Taiwan and Los Angeles. Tours have recently faced challenges due to decreased interest and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the last tour dating back to 2013 in Jakarta.

In summary, the JSA’s return to London after 20 years marks a significant moment for sumo, aiming to rekindle international interest in the sport. The upcoming event is expected to strengthen cultural ties during a time of growing foreign tourism in Japan. This initiative could also usher in a new era for overseas sumo engagements.

Original Source: english.kyodonews.net

The post Japan Sumo Association Announces London Events After 20-Year Break first appeared on The London Bell.