Sumo Wrestlers Perform At A Ceremonial Spring

Sumo wresters grapple during an exhibition match at Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine during an annual spring festival ceremony

Sumo grand champion "Yokozuna" Hakuho of Mongolia holds up Aiki, son of sumo wrestler Kotomitsuki,

Sumo grand champion "Yokozuna" Hakuho of Mongolia, wearing a ceremonial belly band, performs a ring-entering ritual

Sumo wrestlers stamp their feet

Sumo wrestler Miyabiyama carries a baby in his arms before the 'Honozumo', a ceremonial sumo tournament at the Yasukuni Shrine precincts

Georgian sumo wrestler Gagamaru signs an autograph

sumo wrestler walks through spectators after his bout for the 'Honozumo'

A gyoji or referee smiles during the 'Honozumo'

Sumo wrestlers line up during a ritual ceremony at the start of an annual sumo tournament dedicated to the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo

Sumo wrestlers bow their heads during a ritual ceremony at the start of an annual sumo tournament dedicated to the Yasukuni Shrine