Breaking Barriers with Women Inside The Ring

Sumo wrestling in Japan is rooted in Shinto rituals. In these rituals, the sumo ring, or “dohyo,” was considered sacred, and women were not allowed to enter due to notions of purity. However, the modern era is seeing gradual changes, with women increasingly pushing against these longstanding traditions to carve out a space for themselves in amateur sumo.

While professional sumo still prohibits women from competing, amateur leagues are becoming more inclusive, with female sumo wrestlers gaining recognition and respect. Notable figures include Hiyori Kon, who has actively campaigned for gender equality in sumo and was the subject of the documentary “Little Miss Sumo.”