#Japan #Kyoto, Osaka #SUMO and DESIGN #Sumo Fair #Kyoto Bookstore

Celebrate Sumo Culture with the 'SUMO and DESIGN' Fair

In celebration of the upcoming March Sumo tournament, a unique book fair will be held featuring the exciting release of the book 'SUMO and DESIGN', set to hit the shelves on January 5, 2026. This innovative book delves into the artistry behind traditional Sumo garments, showcasing the intricate '化粧まわし' (kesho-mawashi) and '染め抜き着物' (some-nuki kimono), which are central to Sumo culture.

The fair will take place at two prominent locations: Keibunsha Ichijoji in Kyoto and Umeda Tsutaya Bookstore in Osaka. Each venue will be a hub of activities spanning from March 2 to March 31, 2026, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the spirit and heritage of Sumo.

Fair Details

• - Keibunsha Ichijoji Fair

Dates: March 2, 2026 – March 31, 2026
Location: 10 Ichijoji Haradate-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8184
URL: Keibunsha Store

• - Umeda Tsutaya Bookstore Fair

Dates: March 3, 2026 – March 30, 2026
Location: 3-1-3 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8558, LUCUA 9F
URL: Umeda Store

Both locations will feature exhibitions of book panels and special merchandise inspired by the book, including displays of genuine kesho-mawashi fabrics and Sumo-related goods. Visitors can witness firsthand the beauties of Sumo art as they prepare for the March tournament that kicks off on March 8 in Osaka.

Featured Merchandise

Among the exclusive items available at the fair:

• - Kinran Fabrics: Authentic silk fabrics used in kesho-mawashi, woven with gold and silver threads, with a beautiful embroidered chrysanthemum design. Available at prices of ¥5,500 for small pieces and ¥33,000 for larger ones.

• - Zori and Geta: Traditional footwear for Sumo wrestlers, handcrafted with bamboo and wood, priced at ¥41,800.

• - Yuzen Color Papers: Exquisite color papers made using Kyoto's traditional Yuzen technique, offered at ¥1,760.

• - Cushions Made from Sumo Wrestler's Kimono Fabric: Cozy cushions featuring adorable check patterns for ¥4,950.

• - Custom-Made Bags: Made from 締め込み (shimekomi) fabric, with a personalized nameplate option, priced at ¥52,800.

These items are available in limited quantities, so early visits are encouraged to avoid disappointment.

Special Exhibits

Visitors can also enjoy a special display at Keibunsha Ichijoji showcasing the kesho-mawashi of former wrestler Kitazakura Oyakata (formerly known as Endo). This unique exhibit features designs he personally crafted, demonstrating the intricate artistry involved in Sumo garments.

The book, 'SUMO and DESIGN', edited by the Two Virgins Editorial Team, promises to be an eye-opening experience, filled with visuals and explanations of kesho-mawashi, the making of some-nuki kimono, and the cultural significance of these garments. The book will be available for ¥4,950 with an ISBN of 978-4-86791-068-9, ensuring every fan of Sumo and design can take a piece of this vibrant culture home.

Collaborators include the Japan Sumo Association and notable designers in the Sumo garment industry. The fair and book will serve not just as a reminder of Sumo’s glorious past but as an invitation to appreciate its artistic future.

Now is the perfect time for Sumo enthusiasts to relish in the heritage of this incredible sport. Mark your calendars for March 2026, and get ready to celebrate Sumo like never before!

For more information, visit Two Virgins here.
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