Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament Viewing Tour with Tickets
Active
4h - 5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a unique experience that's simply not possible by just watching on TV! Come face to face with Japanese culture that has been kept alive through many years, such as the presence of a referee which began in the Sengoku period (about 1467-1603), and the use of vivid 'kesho-mawashi' ceremonial aprons and the ring entering procession which have continued from the Edo period (1603-1868), on this tour guided by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter knowledgeable about sumo wrestling. Watch sumo, Japan's national sport, from comfortable 2nd Floor chair seats. All tour participants will receive "The Sumo," a booklet about sumo (in English); and Banzuke-hyo, a table of rankings, as a gift! It has easy-to-understand explanations about the origins of sumo wrestling, match rules, reading the banzuke list, enjoying the ceremony, and more, so feel free to use it during the sumo viewing.
Copyright : Nihon Sumo Kyokai all rights reserved
Available options
2nd Floor B-class Chair Seat
2nd Floor B-class Chair Seat: B-class seats are further from the sumo ring than both S and A-class seats on the 2nd Floor.<br/>Meet at Ryogoku View Hotel: Meet at 2nd floor inside Ryogoku View Hotel by 1:50PM (The meeting location is not Ryogoku Kokugikan)
2nd Floor A-class Chair Seat
2nd Floor A-class Chair Seat: A-class seats, although further away than S-class, are still closer to the sumo ring than B-class seats from the 2nd Floor.<br/>Light Snack & Cheering Goods<br/>Meet at Ryogoku View Hotel: Meet at 2nd floor inside Ryogoku View Hotel by 12:30PM (The meeting location is not Ryogoku Kokugikan)
2nd Floor S-class Chair Seat
2nd Floor S-class Chair Seat: S-class seats are the closest to the sumo ring from the 2nd Floor.<br/>Light Snack & Cheering Goods<br/>Meet at Ryogoku View Hotel: Meet at 2nd floor inside Ryogoku View Hotel by 12:30PM (The meeting location is not Ryogoku Kokugikan)
What's included
Sumo-ranking list
Professional guide
Sumo information pamphlet (in English)
[ONLY for S-class and A-class chair seats] Light snack (yakitori and drink) & Cheering towel
2nd Floor Chair Seating
Detailed itinerary
1
Our expert guide, a certified National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter, will conduct a lecture about Sumo to provide valuable insights and enhance your sumo experience.
2
Stop 2
Enjoy the thrilling sumo matches, S & A-class 13:10-18:00 or B-class 14:30-18:00.
Time Schedule:
15:40 - Makuuchi Wrestler Ceremonial Entrance, Yokozuna Grand Champion Ring Entrance (will not take place if there are no Yokozuna present.) The crowd comes alive at the sight of their favorite wrestlers and cheers them on. The atmosphere in the arena brightens instantly.
16:00 - Makuuchi Division Wrestlers' Sumo Matches
18:00 - Bow-twirling Ceremony
Things to Do:
1. Check out the arena entrance lobby to look at the championship flags and other items given to champion sumo wrestlers. The lobby is also a popular spot for photo taking.
2. The arena houses a Sumo Museum where important sumo-related items such as woodblock prints, folding screens and ceremonial aprons from as far back as the Edo period are on display.
3. There are shops on the 1st and 2nd floors of the arena. Enjoy shopping for fans, stationery, sweets, and other sumo-related merchandise.
What's not included
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Gratuities
Meal
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
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Tripadvisor
4.9
184 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photo courtesy of ©Nihon Sumo Kyokai all rights reserved.
The number of customers for 1 group booking for this tour is 1-19 for A-class and B-class seats or 1-9 for S-class seats. If booking for a group of 10 or 20 or more customers, please note that the group will be divided
Please note that participants may not join partway through the tour. Also, participants may join only from the meeting location specified in advance
Spectator Etiquette: Please note that you will have to wait to be seated if one of the following events is underway at the time: a sumo match, a speech by the Sumo Association (on the first and the last tournament day), the ring entering procession of the Makuuchi division wrestlers (dohyoiri), the ring entering procession of the Yokozuna, or the ritual stomping ceremony (on the last tournament day). In such a case, please wait until the event is over before proceeding to spectator seating. Also, the National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter will not be able to provide explanations or other guidance during these events
Children up to 3 years of age may also join, but must sit on the lap of a parent or guardian while watching. If the child requires a seat, please make a(typically for ages 4-11)
Stroller storage areas are available on the 1st and 2nd floors. However, please note that we take no responsibility in case of theft, etc. in the arena. Strollers cannot be brought inside the arena seating area
Bringing food and drinks including alcohol into Kokugikan is prohibited. Please purchase food and refreshments from the vendors inside the arena.
[ONLY for S seats and A seats] At Kokugikan, customers on this tour will be provided a light snack (Kokugikan specialty yakitori (grilled chicken skewer) and drink) (1 per person). As there are no additions to be provided, customers who would like additional food and drink may purchase on their own at the shops on the 1st and 2nd floors of Kokugikan. Bringing food and drinks including alcohol into Kokugikan is prohibited
[ONLY for S seats and A seats] Vegetarian options are not available. Please be aware that should a customer choose not to eat the Kokugikan specialty yakitori, this shall be considered a waiver of rights
[ONLY for S seats and A seats] Each customer on this tour will be given 1 cheering towel in Kokugikan. Please bring it home as a souvenir from sumo viewing. Requests for specific colors or wrestler names, etc. are not accepted
[ONLY for S seats] Customers will watch from 2nd floor S-class seats (chair seating). Also, seats may not be designated. This information will be provided on the day of the tour
[ONLY for A seats] Customers will watch from 2nd floor A-class seats (chair seating). Also, seats may not be designated. This information will be provided on the day of the tour
[ONLY for B seats] Customers will watch from 2nd floor B-class seats (chair seating). Also, seats may not be designated. This information will be provided on the day of the tour
Please note that you may have to wait to be taken to your seat or listen to explanations by the National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter if one of the following events is underway at the time: a sumo match, a speech by the Sumo Association (on the first and the last tournament day), the ring entering procession of the Makuuchi division wrestlers (dohyoiri), the ring entering procession of the Yokozuna, or the ritual stomping ceremony (last tournament day only)
If your group is divided into multiple reservations, please be sure to input information on accompanying group members in the Remarks field for each reservation
Groups may be seated separately in Kokugikan. Seating may be spread across the main, opposite, east, and westsides
For those participating in a wheelchair, please indicate so in the remarks entry field when booking
As Ryogoku Kokugikan's wheelchair storage area is on the 1st floor, please go to the 2nd floor on your own or with the help of an accompanying group member. When heading to the seats there are stairs and escalators going up and down. Please note that the National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter cannot provide assistance or help
Suitcases and other large pieces of luggage cannot be brought into the seating area. In addition, baggage cannot be stored at Ryogoku View Hotel, the meeting location. Please make sure to store luggage at another location on your own in advance (coin lockers, etc.) or at your accommodation
Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour
Meeting point
Meet your guide holding a JTB Sunrise Tours sign at 2nd floor inside Ryogoku View Hotel. The meeting location is not Ryogoku Kokugikan. After exiting from the JR Ryogoku Station West Exit ticket gate, cross the pedestrian crossing immediately on the left. It will be opposite of Ryogoku Kokugikan.
Important notes
• If you arrive at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours at +81 3 5796 5454 (operating hours: 7
AM - 8 PM Japan time) for assistance.
• Please meet at 2nd floor inside Ryogoku View Hotel (The meeting location is not Ryogoku Kokugikan). Please head to the 2nd floor from the hotel entrance using the elevator beside the front desk.
• Access to Ryogoku View Hotel:
1 min on foot from Ryogoku Station (JR Sobu Line)
7 min on foot from Ryogoku Station (Toei Oedo Line)
After exiting from the JR Ryogoku Station West Exit ticket gate, cross the pedestrian crossing immediately on the left and it will be just ahead (opposite direction of Ryogoku Kokugikan).
About Tokyo
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.
Top Attractions
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (small fee for some areas)
Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.
Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)
Odaiba
Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Varies by attraction
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sushi
Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.
Dinner
Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.
Ramen
Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegan and vegetarian options available.
Tempura
Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.
Okonomiyaki
Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Parasailing at Odaiba
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Traditional tea ceremonies
Kimono rentals and photo shoots
Boat tours on the Sumida River
Beach activities at Odaiba
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)
These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°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
Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
- Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station
By bus
Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Shibuya
Shinjuku
Asakusa
Ginza
Akihabara
Day trips
Nikko
120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day
Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Kamakura
50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day
Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Hakone
90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight
Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.
Festivals
Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years)
Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years)
Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July
Pro tips
- Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
- Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
- Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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