Japan Stirs Again Over Takaichi's Move: Prime Minister Skips Sumo Award Ceremony Because She Is a Woman

Choosing to Maintain Sumo Traditions Amid Gender Discrimination Debate
Considering Proxy Award Presentation as Last Year

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who became Japan's first female prime minister in history, has decided not to personally participate in the award ceremony for sumo, a sport with a longstanding tradition of banning women from certain rituals. This decision has reignited debate within Japanese society. On January 12, Japanese media outlets including Kyodo News reported that Prime Minister Takaichi has decided to withhold from personally presenting the trophy at the award ceremony for the winner of the first professional sumo tournament of the year, "Hatsubasho," currently being held in Tokyo. The ceremony is scheduled for the final day of the tournament, January 25.

Ozumo, Japan's representative traditional sport, is held six times a year at two-month intervals in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Photo by AP Yonhap News

Ozumo, Japan's representative traditional sport, is held six times a year at two-month intervals in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Among these, it has become customary for the Japanese prime minister to personally attend the "Hatsubasho" and the "Natsubasho," which is held in Tokyo in May, and present the Prime Minister's Cup to the winner. However, the sumo ring, known as the "dohyo," is regarded as a sacred space where women have been strictly prohibited from entering.

Sumo continues to uphold this tradition to this day. It has been reported that Prime Minister Takaichi concluded she should not present the award in person, out of respect for the sumo community's longstanding customs and the sport's religious and cultural background. Last November, at the Kyushu Basho, Prime Minister Takaichi also refrained from presenting the award herself, instead sending a representative. The same approach-appointing a proxy to present the award-is being seriously considered for this Hatsubasho as well.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who took office as Japan's first female prime minister in history. Photo by AFP Yonhap News

However, there are critical voices within Japanese society regarding this decision. Many have consistently pointed out that the practice of prohibiting women from entering the dohyo is an outdated, discriminatory custom. In fact, there have been controversies in the past when female mayors or governors were prevented from stepping onto the dohyo at certain local tournaments or events.

Particularly because Prime Minister Takaichi is Japan's first female prime minister, her decision is seen as effectively endorsing the sumo tradition, further highlighting the ongoing conflict between the preservation of traditional culture and the value of gender equality. Kyodo News noted, "Prime Minister Takaichi's decision not to attend the award ceremony could spark diverse interpretations and debates both domestically and internationally," adding, "Japanese society now faces a test as to whether it will choose tradition or change."