Chronicle Books Sumo — Makoto Kubota

Sumo wrestling has fascinated Westerners for years, but its complex system of rituals and etiquette has made it difficult for outsiders to penetrate. This luscious softbound coffee table book should help change that. Part religious ritual, part popular entertainment, and Japan's most unique contribution to the sport's world, sumo is filled with emotional intensity, beautiful colors and tremendous visual impact.

Makoto Kubota, with his uncommon access to the wrestlers in both competition and in training, captures the power of sumo in over 100 color and black-and-white photographs. In addition to these close-up and penetrating images, the book also includes a brief account of sumo's ancient history as well as a detailed explanation of the sumo match.