Each sumo envelope, formally known as a kensho-kin, contains precisely 30,000 yen in cash. This amount translates to approximately $277 USD, though the precise dollar value can vary slightly with daily currency exchange rates.
Understanding Sumo's Kensho-Kin
In the world of professional sumo wrestling, kensho-kin (懸賞金) are special envelopes of prize money awarded to the winner of a bout. These envelopes are funded by various sponsors, ranging from major corporations to local businesses, who pay to have their names associated with the matches and displayed on banners during the televised events. For more general information about sumo, you can visit the official website of the Japan Sumo Association.
The Exact Contents of a Kensho-Kin Envelope
The fixed amount of cash found within each individual sumo prize envelope is as follows:
| Currency | Amount (Exact) | Approximate USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese Yen (JPY) | 30,000 JPY | ~$277 USD |
While the full 30,000 yen is what is physically placed in and presented with the envelope, it's important to note that a portion of this money is typically retained by the Japan Sumo Association for administrative fees and taxes. This means the net amount received by the victorious wrestler is less than the initial 30,000 yen per envelope. You can learn more about the kensho-kin system on Wikipedia's Kensho-kin page.
How Sumo Envelopes Are Awarded
The awarding of kensho-kin is a distinctive and highly visible part of a sumo tournament:
- Presented by the Referee: Following a match, the referee (gyoji) hands the envelopes to the winner with a characteristic chopping motion of the hand.
- Multiple Envelopes: A successful wrestler may receive one or several envelopes for a single victory, depending on the number of sponsors who have contributed to that particular bout.
- Sponsor Promotion: Before the match begins, large banners bearing the sponsors' names are paraded around the dohyo (ring), making their contributions known to the audience and television viewers.
- Incentive for Victory: Only the victor receives these cash envelopes, providing a significant financial incentive and adding to the prestige of winning a bout.
The Significance of Kensho-Kin in Sumo
Kensho-kin are more than just cash prizes; they are an integral part of the financial and cultural ecosystem of professional sumo. They provide a direct and immediate reward for a wrestler's performance, contributing to their income and motivating them to achieve excellence. For sponsors, it's a unique opportunity for high-visibility advertising within a deeply traditional sport. This system underscores the enduring blend of ancient customs and modern commercial realities that define sumo.
