Star Metro - Sumo moves to beat Japan summer heat as temperatures rise

Japan sweltered through its hottest summer on record last year and parts of the country have hit 40C in recent days.

Like elsewhere, human-induced climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of dangerous weather in Japan, scientists say.

Sumo wrestlers have been in action throughout August, taking part in a gruelling annual summer tour that sees them perform at venues all around the nation.

Tour chief Takadagawa, who goes by one name, told reporters that changes would have to be made to protect their safety.

"We can't do it in places that don't have air conditioning in summer," he said this week.

Wrestlers held exhibitions this month in at least one venue that had no air conditioning around the ring or in the changing rooms, local media said.

Takadagawa, a former wrestler who is now a stablemaster, said sumo chiefs also plan to reduce the number of annual tour dates, starting from next summer.

"The schedule has been 90 days until now but we are looking to reduce it to around 70," he said.

"To reduce the physical strain we will have wrestlers stay in the same place for nearby venues and incorporate two- or three-day tournaments.

"We won't make them undergo excessive travel," he added.

Japan experiences about 1,300 heat-related deaths annually.

Fijian rugby player Saimoni Vunilagi died in Japan earlier this month after being taken to hospital with symptoms consistent with severe heatstroke.

Authorities have adjusted the timing of several cultural and sporting events in recent years because of the heat.

O.Gauthier--SMC