After a grueling monthlong trek that has wound its way from Osaka up through central and northern Japan then back down toward the nation¡¯s capital, sumo¡¯s summer tour finally comes to an end on Sunday.

Though intra-tournament tours (Âá³Ü²Ô²µ²â¨­) normally also take place in spring, autumn and winter, the heat and length of the summer tour ¡ª which follows on immediately from the most energy-sapping tournament of the year ¡ª is by far the most physically taxing.

It¡¯s something which has long concerned those involved with the sport, and over the years there have been calls by fans and media alike for a reduced workload for its participants, or more rest days between stops along the tour.