New & Now
Event Report: Sumo Jinku September Meet — Exchange Performance “Sukune × Kehaya” in Katsuragi, the Birthplace of Sumo
On September 7, 2025 (Sun), an exchange performance of Sumo Jinku was held at the Katsuragi City Sumo Museum “Kehayaza”.
The event was hosted by the Kehaya Sumo Jinku Association of Katsuragi City, with guest performers from the Yamato Sukune Sumo Jinku Association of Sakurai City.
Chairman Yoshimura of the Kehaya Association expressed his gratitude, saying:
“We are thankful for their contribution every year, adding elegance to our activities. We will continue our efforts to promote and spread Sumo Jinku.”
About the Event
As part of the “Min-Gei” (Everyone’s Arts Festival in Nara Prefecture), held across Nara every autumn, the two associations presented an exchange performance. Visitors also enjoyed a Sumo Jinku workshop and participatory experiences.
What is Sumo Jinku?
Sumo Jinku is a traditional type of chant performed by wrestlers, often during regional tours.
It follows a 7-5 rhythm and includes:
- Makura-uta (introductory songs) — divided into Mae-uta (before) and Ato-uta (after)
- Hon-uta (main songs)
- Hayashi (refrains with rhythm and chorus)
Beyond its humorous and celebratory verses, Sumo Jinku also conveys pathos and community spirit.
About the Kehaya Sumo Jinku Association
Founded in 2005, it was the first Sumo Jinku group established in Nara Prefecture.
Based at the dohyo (sumo ring) of Kehayaza, the group performs various styles such as commemorative verses, humorous verses, and regional-themed verses, and is active throughout Nara and the wider Kansai region.
Event Details
- Date & Time: September 7, 2025 (Sun), 14:00–16:00
- Venue: Katsuragi City Sumo Museum “Kehayaza”
- Address: 83-1 Taima, Katsuragi City, Nara
- Access: 5 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Taimadera Station
About “Min-Gei”
“Min-Gei” (Everyone’s Arts Festival in Nara Prefecture) is a participatory arts festival held every year from September 1 to November 30.
Regardless of disability, gender, or age, everyone can take part and enjoy. Since 2021, it has combined the Nara Prefecture Arts Festival and the Nara Prefecture Disabled Artists’ Festival.
Organizer of the Festival
Nara Prefecture Everyone’s Arts Festival Executive Committee
The festival features diverse stage performances, concerts, and exhibitions at temples, shrines, and townhouses across the prefecture.
Official Website
For more information, please see the [official website].
Contact
Katsuragi City Sumo Museum “Kehayaza”
Tel: 0745-48-4611
Fax: 0745-48-8196
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