Guide - See / Do - Watch sumo wrestling tournaments

Watch sumo wrestling tournaments

Experience sumo - a Japanese sport with more than 1,500 years' history
Budget
Opening Hours 10am - 4.30pm

Sumo is traditional Japanese, full-contact wrestling derived from religious performances that entertained the Shinto gods in ancient times. Professional sumo wrestlers only wear Mawashi, the sumo belt, during the competitions. The wrestler claims victory by forcing his opponent out of the circular ring or by making him touch the ground with any part of his body other than his feet.

Three grand tournaments are held each year. If you are lucky enough to be in Tokyo, you should be able to get a ticket to Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo's National Sumo Hall.

Transport 2-minute walk from JR Sobu Line Ryogoku Station West Exit 5-minute walk from Toei Oedo Line Ryogoku Station Exit A4
+81 3 3623 5111
Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall (Japan Sumo Association), 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0015
東京都墨田区横網1-3-28 両国国技館(日本相撲協会)

1. Look for the big green roof of the National Sumo Hall to enjoy the thrills of real sumo wrestling.

2. You can also buy sumo-themed souvenirs here, like ningyoyaki (snack cakes) and instant curry sauce.

3. Traditional murals around the building showcase this national art and its historical background, and make a great backdrop for photos.

4. If you want to stay up to date on the world of sumo wrestling and tournaments, just pick up a magazine.

5. Buy a ticket to enjoy the intensity of real sumo wrestling!