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Make an origami sumo wrestler and play Tonton Sumo

Create your own paper sumo wrestler and take part in a game of Tonton Sumo, a miniature version of one of Japan’s national sports. Place two rikishi (wrestlers) on a ring and tap the surface to make them move – the first to push the other out wins.

In sumo, two rikishi compete in a clay ring called a dohyō, with a gyōji, or referee, overseeing the match. The goal is to push the opponent out of the ring or make them touch the ground with anything other than their feet.

With origins dating back more than 1,500 years, the sport features many ceremonies and rituals rooted in the Shintō religion. Today, Grand Sumo Tournaments, known as basho, are held six times a year in Japan, each lasting for 15 days.

Download activity sheet

Share your completed origami rikishi on social media using #japanhouselondon and tag us @japanhouseldn.

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