Journeys in Japan - Season 9 - Eps 17: Tsugaru: Amateur Sumo, Indomitable Tradition

2018-07-1028 min⭐ 9/10

The Tsugaru area of Aomori Prefecture has long been known as one of Japan's top districts for developing sumo wrestlers. Since the first national sumo arena opened in 1909 in Tokyo's Ryogoku district, the 69 wrestlers from the prefecture have reached the top division - more than any other area of Japan. There are a number of reasons for this. In winter, Tsugaru receives heavy snowfalls, so people tend to focus on indoor sports, such as sumo. At the same time, the people of Tsugaru are noted for their patience and perseverance, qualities that are prized in sumo. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American translator B.T travels to the Tsugaru area to watch young sumo wrestlers in action. He is shown around a museum that celebrates the local people's passion for the sport. He also takes in the majestic view from the top of Mt. Iwaki, and visits a museum exhibiting gigantic neputa festival floats.

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About Journeys in Japan

Journeys in Japan

Title: Journeys in Japan

First Air Date: 2010-02-02

Last Air Date: 2024-12-03

Status: Returning Series

Rating: 9/10 (from 1 votes)

Language: EN

Seasons: 15

Total Episodes: 515

Network: NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Genres: Documentary

Production Companies: Japan International Broadcasting (JIB), NHK

Synopsis

Journeys in Japan provides an eye-opening look at the many unique places to visit in Japan. English-speaking visitors travel the length of the country, exploring the culture, meeting the local people, visiting historic sites and offering travel hints rarely found in guidebooks.

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