Exclusive Summer Grand Sumo Tournament capsule toys, miniature trinkets in plastic capsules available from vending machines, are proving a hit among local and foreign visitors of all ages at the famous sporting event.
The rare collectibles, dispensed from machines installed at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan, mostly feature top-division wrestlers known as sekitori, and can include keychains shaped like the traditional cushions used by the wrestlers, as well as the referees' acrylic display stands.
"We didn't expect so many people to line up for this," a Japan Sumo Association official said, adding that fans are finding increasing enjoyment in what the tournament has to offer outside of the matches.
The toys and figurines, known as "gacha gacha" in Japan, are obtained by slotting a coin into one of the machines and twisting the lever. Part of the fun in purchasing a capsule toy is the uncertainty of knowing which item will pop out.
Other trinkets include capsules containing stickers featuring portrait snapshots of sumo wrestlers and other well-known figures linked to the sport.
The Grand Sumo machines were first introduced in May last year, beginning with just five double-stacked versions situated in an area scarce of people passing by. Due to their popularity, however, they now have a total of 25 placed near the entrance of the facility's first and second floors.
The high demand for the toys often means it is necessary to limit customers to three turns per person during peak times, with items sometimes sold out in the morning. One capsule costs 500 yen ($3).
"At every tournament, sales keep reaching new highs," said the official, adding that even sumo stable masters sometimes ask others to purchase them on their behalf.
Related coverage:
Sumo: Kotozakura, Onosato move into 2-way tie for lead
Sumo: Abi's win over Shonannoumi leaves 4 tied in Summer tourney lead
Sumo: Onosato beaten as No. 10 maegashira Shonannoumi takes sole lead
