Written by Shyam Bhardwa
No trip is complete without seeing sumo, one of Japan’s most well-known cultural offerings. The Hachioji Sumo Spring Tour is an easy way to see the sport up close, especially if you aren’t around for the big Tokyo sumo tournaments.
What to expect
These traveling sumo tours make their way around Japan in between the larger sumo tournaments but are just as exciting.
From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. the doors open and there are rehearsal bouts. From midday, there will be lower-level matchups, chants, and other rituals on display. 1:30 p.m. is when the big fights start, with well-known wrestlers taking the stage. These bouts are much more intense. Finally, to round things off at 3 p.m., there’ll be a traditional ritual featuring a bow as part of the closing ceremony.
Tickets
Tickets to the Hachioji Sumo Tournament vary in price depending on how close to the action you are. The cheapest seats are in the second tier of the arena and cost ¥4,500. If you’re looking for the best seats right next to the ring, expect to pay up to ¥18,000.
Tickets can be bought on the day, but we’d recommend buying in advance online through one of the official providers.
How to get there
The event is being held in the Esforta Arena Hachioji. The easiest way to get there is to take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station out to Hazama Station (50 minutes). From there, the arena is only 1 minute away.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.