Full-Day Unique Sumo Experience in Katsuragi, Nara

Namba , Japan

Full-Day Unique Sumo Experience in Katsuragi, Nara

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About this experience

Come with us to visit Taima district in Katsuragi on foot and by public transport!

Taima-dera is a Buddhist temple founded in 612. We begin our visit there. We will see its famous Taima Mandala, a magnificent representation of Buddhist paradise. We will then take a walk on Taimadera Street, an old town that is tending to modernize.

We will stop at the Kehayaza Sumo Museum. We will learn more about this iconic sport linked to the history and culture of Japan. We can even have a fun sumo experience!

The end of our trip will take us to Chujodo Honpo, a traditional pastry shop near the station. We can take a gourmet break to enjoy the delicious chujo mochi, a sweet local specialty.

After this day, you will learn more about Japanese history, sumo and Buddhism. You will also have had a good breath of fresh air in the Japanese countryside. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

Available options

Guide Service Only

Pickup included

Guide + Travel & Entry Help

Pickup included

What's included

Guide and Guide Fees (their Transport, Lunch, and Entrance Fees)

Detailed itinerary

This temple was founded in 612 by Imperial Prince Maroko, brother of the famous Prince Shotoku while the villages of the region served as rotating capitals. The temple was then moved to its present location in 681 by Maroko’s grandson and served as the main temple for the now extinct Hosso sect. The main object of worship of the temple is the Yakushi, the healing Buddha but the most popular attraction is the Taima Mandala, a pictorial representation of paradise the Pure Land.

We were able to admire the traditional Japanese street Taima-dera before going to the temple of the same name. We then saw how it could remain traditional while modernizing. Let’s stop there longer after visiting the temple and before or after the sumo Kehayaza museum. The street is full of hidden treasures, treats and souvenirs.

Sumo, Japanese wrestling, is now recognized worldwide as a part of Japanese culture, but few people really know it. Sumo was born in Nara, in the city of Katsuragi, in the Taima district. Visiting Katsuragi is also an opportunity to learn more about this sport in the Kehayaza Sumo Museum.

Chujodo Honpo: After the effort, comes the reward. After the sumo experience, we can enjoy delicious chujo mochi, red bean paste on rice paste, the local specialty, in Chujodo Honpo, on the way home. The very good pastry shop is in this traditional Japanese street in front of the station before heading back to new adventures.

What's not included

around 2,000 JPY/person

around 1,000 JPY/person

Keihayaza Sumo Museum

Taima-dera Temple

Public transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Namba

Namba is the vibrant, bustling heart of Osaka, renowned for its lively streets, delicious street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern entertainment, offering a unique experience to every traveler.

Top Attractions

Dotonbori

A bustling street known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a must-visit for its lively atmosphere and iconic Glico Running Man sign.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to explore (food and shopping costs extra)

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

A long shopping street filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place for shopping and people-watching.

Shopping 2-4 hours Free to explore (shopping costs extra)

Hozenji Yokocho

A narrow, atmospheric alleyway with a moss-covered Buddha statue and traditional wooden buildings. It offers a glimpse into old Osaka.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free to explore (food and drinks cost extra)

Amerikamura (Amemura)

A trendy district known for its youth culture, street fashion, and vintage shops. It's a great place to experience Osaka's modern subcultures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore (shopping costs extra)

Namba Parks

A modern shopping mall with a rooftop garden and a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place for shopping and relaxation.

Shopping 1-3 hours Free to explore (shopping and dining costs extra)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

Octopus-filled dough balls, cooked in a special mold and topped with sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.

Snack Contains seafood, gluten, and soy

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings like pork, shrimp, and cheese.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables, served with a dipping sauce.

Snack Contains meat and seafood, gluten, and soy

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths (tonkotsu, shoyu, miso) and toppings like chashu pork, egg, and bamboo shoots.

Main Dish Contains gluten, soy, and sometimes seafood

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Biking along the river Kayaking or paddleboarding Visiting onsen (hot springs) Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples and shrines Attending a traditional festival

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city. Cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the charm.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and check the meter
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Namba
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 20 km from Namba

By train

Namba Station, Osaka Namba Station

By bus

Namba Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro is efficient, clean, and easy to use. It connects to major attractions and neighborhoods in Namba and beyond.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dotonbori Shinsaibashi Nipponbashi Amerikamura (Amemura) Hozenji Yokocho

Day trips

Osaka Castle

3 km from Namba • Half day

A stunning castle with a rich history, offering beautiful views of the city and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

Universal Studios Japan

15 km from Namba • Full day

A popular theme park featuring a variety of rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and characters.

Kobe

30 km from Namba • Full day

A nearby port city known for its beef, scenic views, and historical sites. It's a great place for a day trip to explore a different side of Japan.

Festivals

Osaka Asian Film Festival • March Sumiyoshi Matsuri • July 30-31 Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25

Pro tips

Use an IC card (like ICOCA or Suica) for convenient payments on public transportation and at some shops and vending machines
Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki from street vendors for an authentic Osaka experience
Visit Dotonbori at night to see the neon lights and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere
Explore Hozenji Yokocho for a glimpse into old Osaka and traditional izakayas
Use Google Maps or Japan Travel app for navigation and real-time updates on train schedules and delays