The art of sumo wrestling is rooted in the historical, religious and cultural aspects of Japan, and stretches back over a thousand plus years ago. It was said that sumo wrestling was performed as a part of a religious ceremony in the hopes that it would bring a fruitful year to the farmers and their crops. Over the years, this time-honed tradition has developed into one of the most popular types of entertainment in Japan. Sumo wrestlers live together and undergo rigorous training each day to prepare for bi-annual competitions around Japan.