5. Watch Sumo Wrestling

It might not be the slap and tickle you’re used to, but watching mammoth, jiggling, thong-wearing, long-haired men stretch, throw salt, do ultra-high leg kicks and finally knock each other around is a sight to behold. Their flexibility is actually quite surprising. Shocking, some might say.

The rituals and formalities of the sport are incredible (and curious) to watch as an outsider. The series of matches begins with the chubby athletes strutting their stuff during the entering the ring ceremony. They wear long, colourful aprons from waist to mid-calf for the occasion.

If clapping, strutting, bowing and crouching are your thing, you will definitely get your fill. It’s all very traditional and Japanese and leaves many foreigners stifling their giggles. But do choke down those snickers – locals take their sumo very, very seriously. And believe me, you wouldn’t want to get on the bad side of one of these cheeky devils.

Grand Sumo Tournaments are held at six locations around Japan in January, March, May, July, September and November.

For event information, visit the Official Grand Sumo Home Page.

4. Stalk Geishas and Maiko in Kyoto»
3. See Snow Monkeys Bathe in Hot Springs
2. Get Naked with Strangers
1. Attend a Penis Festival