Japanese sumo wrestlers from the Chozan stable visited Pingtung to challenge themselves to lift a large black tuna. Coinciding with the Pingtung black tuna cultural tourism season, the Donggang Fish Market welcomed these heavyweight guests today (9th). Invited by the Pingtung County Government, the sumo wrestlers attempted the "black tuna lifting trial." Despite their strong physiques, the wrestlers struggled to control the slippery, fatty tuna, gaining a new perspective on the fish and adding a lively atmosphere to the market.

Director of the Department of Communication and International Affairs, Yin Fenglan, welcomed the Chozan wrestlers on behalf of County Magistrate Zhou Chunmi. She noted that the black tuna cultural tourism season has reached its 25th year, emphasizing the high status of wrestlers in Japan. The strength displayed by the wrestlers in the lifting challenge marked a new milestone for this tourism season and offered insight into the hard work of local fishermen.

The challenges included a “tuna lifting and weight guessing” segment and a “fish transporting PK competition.” The sumo wrestlers teamed up to lift the black tuna, guessing it weighed 220 kg while the Pingtung team guessed 228 kg. Pingtung fisheries executive Zheng Yucheng served as the weight judge, and the actual weight was measured at 224 kg, with the Japanese team winning.

The Chozan wrestler, Mifune, who lifted the fish for the first time, expressed that the tuna was even larger and slicker than he had imagined, having never encountered such a large fish before. Following that, the fish transport PK competition began, with the Pingtung team represented by Legislative Yuan member Xu Fugei going head-to-head with wrestler Mikazuki, creating excitement among the crowd. Ultimately, the Japanese team claimed the championship badge.

Chozan stablemaster, Chozan Masayuki, expressed enjoyment in experiencing local customs and culture. He mentioned that sumo is a traditional sport in Japan and is looking forward to future friendly interactions in Taiwan. After the competition, the wrestlers continued their visits to Donggang’s Donglong Temple and Wang Boat Cultural Center, aiming to experience local culture and leave a lasting impression of Pingtung, promoting cultural exchange. Finally, they visited Wutan Elementary School in Taiwu Township, engaging in skills exchange with judo students, showcasing their strength and providing an entertaining experience for the children.