Wanna watch sumo in Tokyo? You can watch the sumo match in Ryogoku Kokugikan sumo stadium in Tokyo from May 14 - May 28. Read on to find out more details about sumo matches in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan is known for a variety of attractions and a cultural experience like no other. There are many historical and modern sites to explore, but one experience shrouded in the history of Japan that is a must-see is the national sport of sumo wrestling.
Ryogoku Kokugikan is Tokyo's sumo stadium where sumo tournaments are held each year and an experience unlike any other.
Located a short walk from Ryogoku Station in eastern Tokyo, this is the perfect place to witness one of the most enduring sports in the world with a unique atmosphere and culture.
An experience like no other, watching a sumo match is something that must be experienced firsthand to truly appreciate the scale and power of this traditional sport.
Where to Watch Sumo In Tokyo?
Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo's sumo stadium
If you're looking to experience the traditional Japanese sport of sumo in Tokyo, then you can't look past the Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo's sumo stadium.
Easily accessible by a short walk from Ryogoku station, this is the place to go to take in the atmosphere and excitement of the vibrant national sport.
The Ryogoku Kokugikan is a place of pilgrimage for sumo wrestling fans, showcasing the iconic Eko-in Temple and by allowing spectators to observe the national wrestlers on their grand entrance down the sacred dohyo (sumo ring).
Inside the stadium, there are stands which line the dohyo, allowing spectators to get up close to the sumo wrestlers and watch the intense action as it unfolds.
The sumo stadium offers more than just sports thrills, though. On the grounds, you can also find a range of souvenir shops and restaurants for refreshments and snacks.
Visitors can browse through the shops, pick up some traditional Japanese memorabilia and dine on the traditional Japanese cuisine served in the area.
Apart from the Ryogoku Kokugikan, there are several popular sumo stadiums all over Tokyo, such as the Korakuen Hall in Chiyoda-ku, Kobe City in Shinjuku-ku, and the Kawasaki Cushion Hall in Kawasaki City.
This means no matter where you are in the city, you can easily find a sumo stadium to watch an exciting match.
Watching a Sumo Match
Witnessing a sumo match in Tokyo is a spiritual experience that should not be missed. Located in the heart of the city at Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo's sumo arena, sumo tournaments are held nearly every month of the year.
The prestige of the sport adds to the atmosphere. It's not just a sport - it's an art and a tradition closely tied to Japanese culture.
At Ryogoku Kokugikan, the excitement and energy of a traditional sumo wrestling match is palpable. You can hear loud cheers from the crowd and watch sedate, skilled wrestlers carefully making their moves in the ring.
As the tournament commences, some of the greatest stars in the business will fight against each other.
The best way to get to Ryogoku Kokugikan is by taking the JR Sobu Line from Tokyo Station to Ryogoku Station.
From there, it's a short walk to the sumo arena. Once you've arrived, the main arena offers several tiers of seating, allowing people to enjoy a match in different ways.
From the ground level, you can view the action more closely and be part of the excitement. Higher levels offer a view of the entire ring and allow you to take in the whole spectacle.
Witnessing sumo in Tokyo is an unforgettable experience. You can gain an appreciation for the skill and strength of the wrestlers while being part of a centuries-old tradition.
Ryogoku Kokugikan provides the perfect environment to witness the best sumo has to offer. So whether you're a fan of traditional Japanese culture or a curious traveler, visiting Ryogoku Kokugikan is an experience you won't want to miss.
Types of Tickets Available
Tokyo's sumo stadium, Ryogoku Kokugikan, is the most popular destination for avid sumo fans. But what kind of tickets are available?
Depending on your budget and preferences, there are many different types of tickets available.
Amoeba ticket is the most basic ticket, offering access to lower-level seats. This is the most affordable option and allows up to two people per ticket. From here you can get a decent view of the matches and watch as the rikishi clash.
This is a great choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to get a glimpse at sumo wrestling.
The Deluxe ticket is the next option up — it gives you the same access as the Amoeba ticket, but with allocated seating in the middle-level seating area.
This costs a bit more than the amoeba ticket but allows you to have a guaranteed seat where you feel comfortable.
For super sumo fans, the Box Seats ticket is the crème de la crème. This ticket gives you access to some of the best seats in the house!
These seats are ideal for anyone looking to get the full sumo experience — they're just a few rows back from the wrestling ring and provide a perfect view.
Finally, there are the Super Deluxe tickets which offer exclusive access to the premium seating areas.
These tickets provide prime seating in the highest seats — right above the dohyo — and also come with complimentary items such as snacks and souvenirs.
Though pricier than the other tickets, this is the perfect option for anyone looking for the ultimate sumo experience.
No matter which ticket you choose, Ryogoku Kokugikan is just a short walk from Ryogoku Station in eastern Tokyo, making it easy to access from anywhere in the city.
So if you're an avid sumo fan, head on over to Tokyo's sumo stadium for an unforgettable experience!
Attending an Official Training Session
Attending an official sumo training session is one of the most unique and exciting ways to experience sumo in Tokyo.
At Ryogoku Kokugikan – Tokyo's premier sumo stadium – you can check out the wrestlers as they practice their skills and techniques for upcoming grand sumo tournaments.
The stadium is just a short walk from Ryogoku Station in eastern Tokyo, so it's quite easy to get to.
At the training session, you can watch the wrestlers warm up, practice their moves, and fight each other as they mimic real matches.
The rikishi (sumo wrestlers) battle it out and use their full body force to try to knock the other wrestler off balance, and out of the dohyo (the ring).
Unlike real sumo tournaments, at a training session, you can also get up close and personal, as you're allowed to walk around for a better view of the action.
It's also a great opportunity to snap some incredible photos. Whether it's the giant wrestlers' shadow boxing or a violent face-off between two competitors, there are plenty of fantastic action shots to capture.
The atmosphere is electric and the roaring chants of the wrestlers can be heard throughout the stadium. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one you'll never forget.
So if you're looking to watch some incredible sumo in Tokyo and experience something truly unique, make sure you visit Ryogoku Kokugikan for an official training session.
Accommodations Near the Stadiums
If you're looking for fabulous accommodations near the grandiose sumo stadium of Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo, you won't be disappointed. With Ryogoku Station just a short walk away, there are tons of accommodation options to choose from.
For the budget traveler, Ryogoku is the perfect area to stay. Budget hotels and motels line the streets just a few minutes’ walk away from the sumo stadium and the station.
There are even capsule hotels available if you don’t mind sacrificing room for a more affordable price.
If you’re after more of a mid-range stay, Ryogoku has plenty of options for you too! High-end business-oriented hotels are scattered around the area, where you can have your pick on facilities.
You’ll also find charming accommodation options line the streets, with various restaurants and stores available.
But if you’re really intent on getting the most out of your stay, you don't want to pass up the luxurious stays a few steps away from the stadium.
Five-star hotels and resorts line the streets, offering fantastic stays for all your sumo needs. And with special offers and deals available, you can watch sumo in style and comfort from the heart of Tokyo.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s clear to see that Tokyo is the ideal destination for watching a sumo match.
With the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan located a short walk from Ryogoku Station in eastern Tokyo, tourists and locals should plan accordingly and visit this one-of-a-kind stadium.
Whether you’re an avid sumo fan or just looking for an authentic Japanese experience, viewing a match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan will be something you won’t soon forget.
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