A captivating scene has emerged from the quiet fields of Hiraya village, Nagano Prefecture, where traditional sumo wrestlers stand amidst a sea of sunflowers. This picturesque image, not crafted by AI, has sparked a viral sensation on Twitter.
Shared by a wrestler affiliated with Shibatayama stable on August 6, the photograph has garnered over 72,000 retweets, captivating viewers with its juxtaposition of ancient tradition against the backdrop of vibrant blooms.
Described by some as resembling “summer fairies,” the sumo wrestlers, clad in their distinctive fighting attire, evoke a sense of timeless grace amidst the rural landscape.
For three consecutive years, Shibatayama stable has joined forces with the rival Minezaki stable for joint training sessions at this very location, behind the Hiraya village government building. The sunflower fields, captured from above by a drone, provide a stunning canvas for this unique annual gathering.
Last year, a village official operated the drone to capture a similar photograph. Since then, stablemaster Minezaki himself has acquired a drone license, enabling him to capture this year’s breathtaking aerial view.
Hiraya village, renowned as Nagano Prefecture’s smallest village by population, with just 414 residents as of September 1, 2018, now finds itself thrust into the spotlight for this enchanting blend of tradition and nature.
In this picturesque corner of Japan, it seems, both the flowers and the sumo wrestlers conspire to create an unforgettable moment in time.
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