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Japan’s first female Prime Minister faces a Sumo-Sized dilemma

Wednesday 12 November 2025 - 15:25

By: Sahili Aya

Japan’s first female Prime Minister faces a Sumo-Sized dilemma

As anticipation builds among Japan’s sumo fans, all eyes are on Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who may soon have to choose between respecting ancient tradition and breaking a long-standing gender taboo. Later this month, she is expected to attend the final of the Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament — but the question remains: will she step into the “sacred” ring?

For centuries, women have been banned from entering the dohyo, the raised ring where bouts take place. The restriction is rooted in Shinto beliefs, which consider women “impure” due to menstrual blood. Even today, female athletes and referees are allowed only in amateur-level sumo, while professional competition remains closed to them.

Government spokesperson Minoru Kihara said this week that “the prime minister wishes to respect sumo tradition and culture,” adding that the government has not yet decided whether Takaichi will present the winner’s trophy herself. His cautious tone suggests that Takaichi, known for her conservative values, might avoid direct confrontation with the powerful Japan Sumo Association.

The issue is not new. In 1990, Japan’s first female chief cabinet secretary, Mayumi Moriyama, was denied permission to present the same trophy. In 2000, Osaka’s female governor, Fuse Ohta, was forced to hand out her award from a walkway beside the ring.

The controversy re-emerged dramatically in 2018, when several women rushed into the dohyo to help a collapsed mayor during an exhibition match. Officials later “purified” the ring with salt — a ritual move that reignited debate over gender discrimination in the national sport.

As Japan witnesses its first female leader in history, the upcoming Fukuoka final could mark a symbolic moment: whether the prime minister remains outside the ring — or steps into it, challenging one of the country’s most sacred traditions.