The New Year sumo tournament opens at Ryogoku Kokugikan on January 8. The Mainichi Newspapers sponsors the large champion photos displayed at the hall. Who will receive the portrait on the final day? Hakuho again? Most photos are Hakuho; before that Asashoryu. Perhaps Kotooshu—or could it be the rising Kisenosato?
On Saturday the 7th, the day before, the drum announcement comes to Palaceside Building in Takebashi around 1:00 or 1:30 p.m. Morning stroll in the East Gardens, lunch at Palaceside Building, then hear the drums—a fine holiday plan.