Written by Patrick Balfe
Enjoy sumo wrestling exhibition matches and experience a rare sumo retirement ceremony on this one-day tour at the home of sumo wrestling in Tokyo.
What to expect
During this guided tour experience, you’ll enjoy guaranteed second-floor front-view seating for a day of jūryō (second division) and makuuchi (top division) bouts. You’ll also have the rare chance to see a danpatsu-shiki top knot-cutting ceremony marking a wrestler’s retirement from sumo and entry into a new phase of life.
In addition, other demonstrations of sumo culture, such as a sumo jinku sumo folk song performance, makuuchi and yokozuna ring entering procession, and a yumitori-shiki bow-twirling ceremony to conclude the day’s events.
Throughout the day, you’ll be guided by a national government-licensed guide interpreter knowledgeable in sumo who will explain the ins and outs of sumo from basic rules to insider knowledge. All participants will also receive an English-language copy of the book The Sumo.
While there, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase food and merch, including stable master-supervised gourmet food and commemorative goods exclusive to the retirement ceremony. After the tour, you’re encouraged to browse the Ryōgoku area at your own leisure and head to one of the many local chanko hot pot restaurants run by former wrestlers.
Schedule
- 11:00 a.m. Meet outside the JR Ryōgoku Station West Exit Ticket Gate and head to Ryōgoku Kokugikan
- 11:30 a.m. Jūryō division wrestlers’ matches
- 12:45 a.m. Sumo folk song
- 1:00 p.m. Retirement ceremony
- 2:30 p.m. Makuuchi/yokozuna ring entering procession
- 2:45 p.m. Makuuchi division wrestlers’ matches
- 4:00 a.m. Bow-twirling ceremony
Tickets
Tickets are available from the official website. They range in price from ¥16,000 to ¥30,000, which includes premium 2nd-floor main side B-class seats (chair seating), an English-speaking guide, and a copy of The Sumo as a commemorative gift. Premium S-class seats are also available for a closer view of the action.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.Add to Calendar
- 158 m from Ryōgoku Station Oedo Line (E12)Chūō-Sōbu Line (JB19)
- 0.7 km from Kuramae Station Asakusa Line (A17)Oedo Line (E11)
- 0.9 km from Asakusabashi Station Asakusa Line (A16)Chūō-Sōbu Line (JB20)
