Oki Bull Sumo

On the Oki Islands in Shimane, pairs of Japanese Black bulls lock horns and push against each other in matches that can last anywhere from seconds to over 30 minutes. Unlike Spanish bullfighting, no weapons are involved and the bulls are not harmed. A match ends when one animal turns away, and handlers step in immediately. The tradition dates to at least the Kamakura period and was originally tied to Shinto harvest festivals. Tournaments run spring through autumn at Momodani Bull Sumo Stadium, with the biggest events in September and October. The atmosphere feels like a village sporting event, with locals cheering from wooden bleachers.