Sumo ring builder (Japan Sumo Association)
どひょうづくり
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that sets up and maintains the sumo ring, the arena for sumo matches, and prepares the environment for tournaments.
Description
Sumo ring building is a specialized job that sets up, maintains, and dismantles the sumo rings used in tournaments and exhibition tours by the Japan Sumo Association. It mixes red clay and sand delivered to the venue, and uses wooden or metal tools to mound it evenly for precise height and level. It creates edges around the perimeter with rice straw, repairs cracks and depressions that occur during use as needed to ensure safety. After the tournament, it dismantles the sumo ring and removes the materials. It also handles traditional ceremonies such as salt tossing during ring-entering rituals. It is heavy manual labor centered on handwork, requiring meticulous finishing and understanding of traditional processes.
Future Outlook
Challenges with an aging workforce and succession of traditional techniques exist, requiring strengthened successor training and training systems.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Event-based / Organization affiliation / Outdoor work / Standing work
Career Path
Sumo hairdresser apprentice → Sumo ring builder craftsman → Chief → Team leader
Required Skills
Measurement using a level / Operation of sumo ring tools / Soil adjustment / Sumo ring edge construction using rice straw
Recommended Skills
Knowledge of traditional rituals / Material management / On-site safety management / Work planning
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To maintain uniform thickness and level of the sumo ring. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because handling heavy tools and materials for sumo ring construction. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because work is performed in cooperation with multiple people. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it mainly involves routine tasks and does not require much creativity. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Measurements and thickness adjustments are mainly based on visual inspection and experience. |
Aliases
- Sumo ring building
- Sumo ring construction
- Sumo ring craftsman
Related Jobs
- Sumo attendant
- Sumo hairdresser
- Sumo referee