Kataonami Stable, Sumo wrestling stable in Tokyo, Japan
Kataonami Stable is a training facility for professional sumo wrestlers in a residential neighborhood of Tokyo, where the fighters live and train together. The facility includes a large practice ring made of packed clay, sleeping quarters, and communal areas where the athletes take their meals and prepare for tournaments.
The facility was founded at the beginning of the 21st century, when a retired top fighter decided to open his own school. Since then, the stable has trained several athletes who have risen to higher divisions of professional sumo.
The name comes from the founder, a former grand champion who started this training house after his wrestling career ended. Visitors today can see how the fighters live in simple rooms and organize their days by old rules, with younger athletes serving the experienced ones.
Visitors should ask in advance whether they can watch the morning training sessions, as access is limited and respect for the routines is required. One should remain quiet, sit to the side, and avoid disturbing the fighters during their exercises.
Recently, three fighters from this school have made the jump to the second highest competition class, which is unusual for a smaller stable. These successes show that talent can grow even outside the large establishments.
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