dohyo

Round combat area that is 15 ft in diameter; it consists of packed clay covered with a thin layer of sand.

water

The wrestlers rinse their mouths with purifying water before starting the bout.

salt

Before the start of the bout, the wrestlers toss a handful of salt on the dohyo, a Shinto purification rite.

step

Horizontal surface for accessing the dohyo.

sagari

Decorative cords of silk that hang from the front of the mawashi.

gyoji

Referee of the dohyo who directs the bout, encourages the wrestlers and announces the winner; this individual works with the judges, who are all former contestants.

mawashi

Silk belt about 33 ft long that is the sumotori’s only clothing; it provides a solid hold for the opponent.