Sumo, Japan’s national sport, is a traditional competition with a long history and unique culture. When visiting Japan, you can experience its deep cultural heritage by watching a grand sumo tournament or participating in hands-on sumo experience programs. This article introduces the basics of sumo wrestling and recommended sumo-related activities.
１．What is Grand Sumo?
Tournament Schedule, Locations, and Duration
Grand Sumo is a professional sumo event organized by the Japan Sumo Association, held six times a year (in odd-numbered months). Each tournament lasts for 15 days and follows this schedule:
- January: New Year Tournament (Tokyo – Ryogoku Kokugikan)
- March: Spring Tournament (Osaka – Edion Arena Osaka)
- May: Summer Tournament (Tokyo – Ryogoku Kokugikan)
- July: Nagoya Tournament (Aichi – Dolphins Arena)
- September: Autumn Tournament (Tokyo – Ryogoku Kokugikan)
- November: Kyushu Tournament (Fukuoka – Fukuoka Kokusai Center)
Matches begin in the morning, but the real excitement starts in the afternoon when the top-ranked wrestlers compete, especially in the evening. To fully enjoy the experience, it’s best to purchase tickets in advance and familiarize yourself with the rules and tournament flow.
Understanding Sumo Seating Options
Different seating options provide various sumo-watching experiences:
- Tamari-seki (ringside seats): The closest seats to the ring, offering an up-close and intense experience. These are highly sought after and difficult to obtain.
- Masu-seki (box seats): Cushioned floor seats for groups of up to four people. These offer a traditional viewing experience and are ideal for groups.
- Chair seats: Standard stadium-style seats, which are more affordable and easily accessible for solo travelers.
Choosing the right seat can enhance your sumo experience, so understanding the seating options beforehand is essential.
Official Sumo tickets | Ticket Oosumo
２．Regional Sumo Tours
When Grand Sumo tournaments are not in session, sumo stables hold regional tours across Japan. These tours allow visitors to witness sumo training and practice matches up close, often with additional fan engagement activities.
Since tickets for regional tours are sold individually by different organizers, they can be harder to obtain compared to Grand Sumo tournament tickets. Checking the Japan Sumo Association’s official website regularly is the best way to stay updated on tour schedules and ticket availability.
３．Experience Sumo Firsthand! Recommended Sumo Experience Programs
Since Grand Sumo is only held three times a year in Tokyo for 15 days, it may not always align with your travel schedule. In such cases, participating in a sumo experience program is a great alternative to immerse yourself in sumo culture.
①Morning Sumo Training Tour
You will be visiting Takasago Stable, a prestigious sumo training stable.
- Price: From 15,000 JPY
- Duration: About 2 hours (8:00–10:00 AM)
- Meeting Point: Ryogoku Station
- English guide included
This tour offers a rare opportunity to observe professional sumo wrestlers during their intense morning training sessions. Morning practice is full of energy, providing a glimpse into the rigorous preparation process. The tour includes an English-speaking guide who explains sumo rules and background stories about the wrestlers. After the session, you can take photos with the sumo wrestlers. Since the meeting point is at Ryogoku Station, there’s no worry about getting lost, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
Click here to book ➡ [Tokyo] Experience a tour to see the exciting morning practice of the traditional Japanese sport of sumo with an English guide
②Grand Sumo Training Tour
- Price: From 22,000 JPY
- Duration: About 1.5 hours
- Location: Sumo stable (confirmed the day before)
- English guide included
During a regular sumo training session, visitors must remain silent. However, this tour provides an English-speaking guide who explains the practice through written notes. After training, you can interact with sumo wrestlers and take pictures with them. Since the sumo stable location is confirmed the day before, the meeting point may be challenging to find, so plan accordingly.
Click here to book ➡ [Tokyo] Sumo practice tour for foreigners visiting Japan! Don’t worry, you will be guided by a guide who is familiar with sumo.
③Sumo Show & Chanko Lunch（my recommendation）
- Price: From 23,100 JPY
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- English commentary available
- Private booking option available (From 110,000 JPY)
This program features an entertaining sumo show with former sumo wrestlers, providing an interactive way to learn about sumo culture. Participants can even challenge a former wrestler! Additionally, guests can enjoy an authentic sumo-style chanko hot pot, a dish commonly eaten in sumo stables. A private booking option is available for families or groups who prefer a more personal experience.
Click here to book ➡ [Ryogoku, Tokyo] Experience traditional Japanese culture [Sumo show & chanko lunch (held in English)]”Would you like to try your hand at sumo?”
４．Other Unique Sumo Encounters
Ryogoku, the heart of sumo culture, is home to numerous sumo stables. Walking around the area, you might spot young sumo wrestlers going about their daily lives. I lived in this neighborhood five years ago and had interesting experiences, such as eating ramen next to sumo wrestlers or seeing them perform rap music near the train station. Simply strolling through Ryogoku can give you a taste of authentic sumo culture.
Sumo is not just a sport; it’s a deep-rooted part of Japanese tradition. Watching a live match is thrilling, but hands-on experiences like morning training tours or enjoying chanko hot pot provide a unique way to engage with sumo culture. If you visit Tokyo’s Ryogoku district, be sure to include a sumo experience in your travel plans!
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