KYOTO, Sep 11 (News On Japan) - The traditional 'Crow Sumo' ritual, which involves imitating crow calls to pray for good health, was held on September 9 at Kyoto's Kamigamo Shrine. This ritual, which takes place on the Day of Chrysanthemums, has been performed since the Heian Period
During the event, shrine servants known as Tone mimicked crows by leaping sideways and imitating their calls, while carrying bows and swords.
The ritual is linked to the legend of Yatagarasu, a sacred crow that guided Emperor Jimmu, as well as an ancient sumo event aimed at warding off evil spirits that could damage crops.
On the shrine grounds, children also performed sumo wrestling, and this year's Saio-dai of the Aoi Festival, Akiko Matsuura, was among the spectators, who cheered enthusiastically.