Enjoy the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament from reserved seats, receive exclusive sumo gifts, and experience centuries of tradition live in the arena. This tour is operated by JTB Sunrise Tours
Experience Japan’s national sport up close at the Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo! This special tour offers a rare chance to witness powerful matches and centuries-old traditions that can’t be felt through TV. Watch top-ranked rikishi (sumo wrestlers) compete from comfortable reserved seats while learning about the fascinating world of sumo from a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter.
Before the matches, your guide will explain the origins and rituals of sumo, including the ring-entering ceremony, the elaborate kesho-mawashi aprons, and the referee traditions dating back to the Sengoku period. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the sport’s cultural and spiritual significance as you cheer along with local fans.
Each participant will receive “The Sumo,” an English booklet full of fun facts and easy-to-follow information about sumo rules, ranking tables (banzuke-hyo), and how to enjoy the matches. Light snacks and cheering goods are also provided to make your experience even more enjoyable.
Watch Sumo at Ryogoku Kokugikan: Time Schedule
15:40 – Ceremonial Ring Entrance of Makuuchi Wrestlers and Yokozuna (Grand Champion) The Yokozuna ring entrance will not take place if no Yokozuna are present. As the wrestlers appear, the crowd erupts in excitement, cheering for their favorites and filling the arena with energy.
16:00 – Makuuchi Division Sumo Matches Begin Watch the highlight of the day as top-ranked wrestlers face off in powerful bouts.
18:00 – Bow-Twirling Ceremony The final ceremonial performance of the day concludes the tournament with traditional elegance.
Things to Do
Visit the arena entrance lobby to see championship flags and other prizes awarded to champion wrestlers. This area is also a popular photo spot. Please note: The lobby is not accessible on the final tournament day due to award ceremony preparations.
Explore the Sumo Museum, which displays valuable items such as woodblock prints, folding screens, and ceremonial aprons (kesho-mawashi) dating back to the Edo period. It’s a great place to visit during intermissions.
Stop by the souvenir shops on the 1st and 2nd floors, offering a wide selection of sumo-themed goods including fans, stationery, and sweets. Please note that bringing outside food or drinks, including alcohol, into Kokugikan is prohibited.
Enjoy chanko hot pot, the traditional dish of sumo wrestlers, at the large dining hall on the basement floor of the arena. Additional charges apply.
Planning Company:JTB Global Marketing & Travel Inc. Address:2-3-14 Higashi Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Registration No.:Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agent (No. 1723) A member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents
About Initiatives for Sustainable Tourism: This tour promotes Environment(Eco)-friendly efforts and Cross-cultural Understanding as stated under Sunrise Tours' Sustainable Development Goals. We advocate for responsible travel and urge one and all to become responsible travelers. Please check the following page for details: http://jtbgmt.com/en/g-web/sdgs
Booking and Operation Conditions
Seating Information
Children and Infants
Guests Using Wheelchairs
Luggage Policy
Language Support
Reception Method
Meeting / Pick-up Location
During the Tour
Please note that you may have to wait to be seated if any of the following events are underway at the time:
In such cases, please wait until the event has ended before proceeding to your seat.
Meals
Cheering Towel
Spectator Etiquette