Kamizumo, a popular Japanese paper sumo game that originated in the Edo period (1603-1867), is coming to life at Sumida Riverside Hall. The game usually consists of two paper figurines placed so that they’re facing each other on a ring no bigger than a coffee table. Players use their fingers to tap the ring and knock their opponent off.
Hokusai Sumi-Yume Tournament is preparing a life-size version of the game, with 180cm-tall figures made of cardboard, and you can watch them battle it out on October 24. There are 32 cardboard wrestlers competing this year, which were created over four workshop sessions lead by art collective Kosuge1-16, and you can check them out on the rikishi (sumo wrestler) list online.
You can predict winners and vote for your favourite players before the match, and even participate virtually by clicking on the ‘tap’ button on the website, which will cause the hammers on the side of the ring to slam down, helping the figurines move. To join in, you’ll need to register via this form (Japanese only) to receive a special link. The registration for making predictions and voting will close on October 24 at 2pm, while the registration to move the hammers will close on October 21 at 11.59pm.
If you just want to watch the match, head to the official YouTube page to watch it live.