A quintessentially Japanese institution, the ancient sport of sumo is not only Japan's national sport but also a cultural treasure that transcends mere athletics. Yet it is still new to the West. The “Americanization” of sumo traditions has bolstered the sport’s fan base outside Japan—as well as exposed it to curious onlookers that are perplexed by wrestlers’ style, girth and agility.

What’s this world of sumo all about? Why do sumo wrestlers dress like they do—and why are they so big?

Find out with this interactive guide to the sumo wrestler >>