Why women love Japan's males-only wrestling

Sumo's sacred circle keeps females out -- but it also draws them in

KAORI SHOJI

In Japan, sumo season comes around six times a year, with each tournament lasting 15 days. For 90 days a year I find myself in what my third-grade teacher used to call "a complete dither," depending on how my favorite wrestler is faring. My body may be at my desk or in the kitchen, but my soul is hovering near the dohyo -- the sacred ring where sumo bouts take place.

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