As the winter draws near to Fukuoka, sumo wrestlers in kimono with chonmage, a top knot, become a common sight in the city. The Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament, which opens in November, is one of those events that define the beginning of winter in Fukuoka. The Tournament runs for two weeks from mid to late November every year at the Fukuoka International Center. So if you get the chance, it is highly recommended! While sunakaburi, ringside seats, may seem expensive, seats in the rear are more reasonably priced. If it’s still beyond your budget, you can always try visiting the sumo stables, of which there are said to be nearly sixty in Fukuoka and its suburbs.