In this special episode of The Sensible Hippie Podcast, we dive into the spiritual roots and rich cultural traditions of sumo wrestling, dedicated to honoring Akebono, the first non-Japanese Yokozuna from Hawaii. Join us as we explore how sumo transcends sport, becoming a sacred ritual tied to Shinto beliefs, where every action holds deep spiritual meaning.

We’ll uncover sumo’s purification rituals, such as the symbolic use of salt-throwing, shide (zigzag paper strips), and the sacred significance of the sumo ring (dohyo). Discover how Akebono’s journey as a Yokozuna forged a cultural bridge between Hawaii and Japan, and what makes sumo an enduring symbol of balance, honor, and tradition. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review as we explore these fascinating traditions.

Whether you’re a sumo fan or new to the sport, this episode offers a deeper look into sumo’s spiritual and cultural importance. Stay tuned to learn more about the spiritual connection between sumo wrestling and Shinto rituals, and how these traditions have continued through the centuries.


Discover the spiritual roots of sumo wrestling in this episode of The Sensible Hippie Podcast. Dedicated to Akebono, Hawaii’s first Yokozuna, we explore sumo’s deep ties to Shinto rituals, the symbolism of sumo’s purification ceremonies, and the cultural bridge between Hawaii and Japan.


Explore the spiritual roots of sumo wrestling in this episode of The Sensible Hippie Podcast, with clips from NHK and National Geographic. Dedicated to Akebono, Hawaii’s first Yokozuna, we delve into sumo’s deep ties to Shinto rituals and the cultural bridge between Hawaii and Japan

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Website Reference:

Sumo Culture - Mai-ko https://mai-ko.com/travel/culture-in-japan/sumo/sumo-2/

YouTube Video:

Sumo Rituals on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ofAjMB8vMQ


Salt Throwing NHK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvc0oAg4TXg

Bow Twirling NHK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2L5nrgXh_k

Sumo Wrestling 101 National Geographic https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cj_QyxPZE8M

Funeral for first foreign-born sumo yokozuna Akebono Nippon TV News https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVyXp2aFSPk

References :
"Sumo: A Pocket Guide" by David Shapiro and Junko Taira

This book provides an overview of the traditions and rituals in sumo, including the use of sagari (fringes hanging from the mawashi belt) and the role of odd numbers like 17 to 21 in maintaining spiritual purity and luck.

"Shinto: The Kami Way" by Sokyo Ono

This is a highly regarded text on Shinto practices. It provides context for the role of shide (zigzag paper strips) as symbols of purification and protection in Shinto shrines and rituals.

The Japan Sumo Association Website

The official website of the Japan Sumo Association offers detailed insights into sumo traditions and rituals, including the significance of sagari and salt-throwing in purification practices.

Website: Japan Sumo Association https://www.sumo.or.jp/En/

"The Essence of Shinto: Japan’s Spiritual Heart" by Motohisa Yamakage

"Japanese Culture: The Religious and Philosophical Foundations" by Roger J. Davies


"Sumo Wrestling: The History and Ritual of Japan's National Sport" by Lora Sharnoff

Website Reference:

Sumo Culture - Mai-ko https://mai-ko.com/travel/culture-in-japan/sumo/sumo-2/

YouTube Video:

Sumo Rituals on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ofAjMB8vMQ

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Hashtags:
#SumoWrestling #sumo #shinto

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