Sumo wrestlers Shonanoumi (L) and Sadanoumi had time to pose for a picture with Metro’s reporter Molly during London sightseeing (Picture: Metro/Molly Lee)
London is about to feel the full force of Japanese tradition,strength,and stomping feet as the Grand Sumo Tournament begins tomorrow at Royal Albert Hall.
From visiting the National History Museum,trying all the food the city has to offer,running into Platform 9 ¾ and squeezing into a phone box – the wrestlers have been soaking up all of London’s bites and sights.
With their topknots and mawashi tightened,the wrestlers are ready to rumble after a wholesome tour of the capital.
One woman,who saw a sumo wrestler on her way to church today,told Metro: ‘I was on the bus and it was a few stops before Knightsbridge where I saw him.
The wrestlers navigated London traffic while out and about,including bikes (Picture: David McGrath)
‘He was wearing a sage green kimono and looked beautiful just walking down the street. Although I did think it was a bit incongruous,almost like a dream.’
Other Londoners have spotted different sumo wrestlers in Marks & Spencer,Asian supermarkets and restaurants.
【ロンドン巡業①】参加者伊勢ノ海親方、勝ノ浦親方、藤ノ川、錦木、漣、鬨王、床春。〜キングスクロス駅〜映画『ハリー・ポッター』シリーズのホグワーツ特急が発着する「9¾番線」のロケ地として有名#伊勢ノ海部屋#相撲#sumo #ロンドン巡業 pic.twitter.com/VRXtbIvjzR
— 伊勢ノ海部屋 (@isenoumibeya) October 14,2025
The sumos visited the National History Museum and did some shopping (Picture: David McGrath)
Sumo-lovers from across the country and world have come to the capital – including devoted fan,Manfred Deutschlaender,who travelled from Germany today.
Manfred has been travelling to Japan for 23 years to watch the sport and enjoy the sumo culture.
Today,he was able to meet and talk with some of his favourite wrestlers outside of the hotel they are staying in.
Manfred and a sumo wrestler who will be competing in the tournament (Picture: Molly Lee/Metro)
Source: Japan Up Close
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