Written by Greg Lane
Watching sumo wrestlers trying to make babies cry might seem like an odd pastime, but at Asakusa’s Sensōji it’s an age-old tradition. The unusual 400-year-old event takes place at a few different temples and shrines across Japan but this is by far the most popular.
What happens?
The babies are a year old and the challenge is to see who cries first, becoming the winner. If they cry at the same time, the winner is determined by who cries the loudest and if a baby laughs, an ogre-mask-clad priest will often step in to encourage some tears.
Parents pay around ¥15,000 to have their babies participate, and it’s quite a privileged opportunity as the tears encourage good health and drive away any evil spirits. This is the root behind the popular Japanese saying that a crying baby grows faster (although we assume this is little comfort to tired parents at 2 a.m.).
Schedule 2026
There are two competitions: one held at 11:15 a.m. and one at 2:30 p.m. so don’t worry if you can’t make the earlier one.
Entry 2026
If you want to apply, head here. Applications will be accepted until March 27, 2026. It costs ¥15,000 to enroll your baby.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 0.6 km from Asakusa Station Ginza Line (G19)Asakusa Line (A18)Tobu Skytree Line (TS1)
- 0.8 km from Tawaramachi Station Ginza Line (G18)
- 1.0 km from Honjo-azumabashi Station Asakusa Line (A19)
