Page "Sumo" Paragraph 78

Through the centuries sumo has had limited female participation.

So, starting as early as the 18th century a form of female sumo or onnazumo was performed in some areas of Japan.

In the cities it was more of a spectacle often associated with brothels.

However, in some areas of Japan female sumo had a serious role in certain Shinto rituals.

In later years, there were limited tours of female sumo that lasted for a time.

However, female sumo is not considered to be authentic by most Japanese and is now prohibited from taking place in anything but amateur settings.