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Moshi Moshi Travel Japan Newsletter

Moshi Moshi Sumo Spectacular: Your Guide to Japan's National Sport

Welcome to Moshi Moshi Travel Japan, your ultimate guide to all things Japanese. Today, we're diving into the captivating world of sumo, a sport that embodies Japan's rich history and cultural traditions. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, we've covered everything you need to know to experience sumo like a true local.

Sumo: More Than Just Wrestling

Sumo isn't just a sport; it's a window into Japan's ancient past and a living embodiment of its cultural values. Originating centuries ago as a ritual to entertain Shinto deities, sumo is steeped in tradition and symbolism.

Today, sumo remains a male-only professional sport in Japan, with wrestlers dedicating their lives to the pursuit of mastery. The sport's unique blend of athleticism, spirituality, and cultural significance makes it a must-see for anyone visiting Japan.

How to Witness the Spectacle: Buying Sumo Tickets and Attending Tournaments

The best way to experience the thrill of sumo is by attending a Grand Sumo Tournament. Here's what you need to know:

• Tournament Schedule: Six tournaments are held annually: three in Tokyo, one in Osaka, and one in Nagoya. There is also a tournament in Fukuoka in November.

• 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament Schedule:

  • January Grand Sumo Tournament: January 14-28, 2024, at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo

  • March Grand Sumo Tournament: March 10-24, 2024, at the Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium in Osaka

  • May Grand Sumo Tournament: May 12-26, 2024, at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo

  • July Grand Sumo Tournament: July 7-21, 2024 at the Dolphins Arena in Nagoya

  • September Grand Sumo Tournament: September 8-22, 2024, at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo

  • November Grand Sumo Tournament: November 10-24, 2024 at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center in Fukuoka

• Ticket Purchasing: Secure your seats in advance through Ticket Oosumo, the official ticketing partner. Tickets can also be purchased at convenience stores and the stadium itself, but availability isn't guaranteed. Alternatively, consider booking a tour with Japan Wonder Travel for a guided experience with included tickets.

• Seating Options: Choose from ringside seats (closest to the action), box seats (traditional Japanese style), or balcony seats (Western style). Prices vary depending on the seat type and location.

What to Expect at a Sumo Tournament

A day at the sumo tournament is a full-on cultural immersion. Here's how to make the most of it:

• Morning Matches: Start your day with the lower-ranked wrestlers' matches. These early bouts are a great opportunity to take photos and soak in the atmosphere.

• Lunch Break: Take a break to explore the surrounding area, home to numerous sumo stables, museums, and chanko nabe restaurants.

• Afternoon Matches: The excitement ramps up as the top-ranked wrestlers take the stage. Don't miss the elaborate ring-entering ceremonies, a captivating display of tradition and ritual.

• Evening Matches: The final matches are often the most intense and unpredictable. Stick around to witness the tournament champion's crowning and the Emperor's Cup award.

1. A Glimpse into Tokyo's Grand Sumo Tournaments

Sumo, a unique Japanese sport with ancient origins, is a captivating spectacle that enthralls both locals and tourists alike. The objective is simple: force your opponent out of the ring or make them touch the ground with any body part except the soles of their feet. Witnessing the powerful clashes, strategic maneuvers, and traditional rituals is an unforgettable experience.

Tokyo hosts three Grand Sumo Tournaments each year at the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan in the heart of Ryogoku, a district steeped in sumo history. The 2024 tournaments will be held from January 14-28, May 12-26, and September 8-22.

2. Navigating to Ryogoku Kokugikan

Reaching Ryogoku Kokugikan is a breeze! The stadium is conveniently located just a short walk from Ryogoku Station, served by the JR Chuo-Sobu Line and the Toei Oedo Line. If you're coming from popular areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Akihabara, it's less than an hour's train ride away.

3. Savoring the Highlights of Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournaments

Sumo tournaments start early in the morning with matches between lower-ranked wrestlers. However, the real excitement begins in the afternoon when the top-ranking wrestlers, including the revered yokozuna (grand champion), enter the ring. Don't miss the elaborate ring-entering ceremonies, a captivating display of Shinto-based rituals.

For those short on time, arriving around 2:00 PM allows you to catch the most thrilling matches and the mesmerizing ceremonies. If you have more time, consider briefly watching the morning matches for photo opportunities before exploring the surrounding Ryogoku area.

Tickets and Seating:

• Book your tickets in advance through Ticket Oosumo to avoid disappointment.

• Choose between arena seats (starting at 3,500 JPY) or masu (box) seats (starting at 34,000 JPY for a group of four).

• Consider joining a guided tour to better understand Sumo and its traditions.

4. Exploring Sumo Beyond the Tournament

Tokyo offers numerous sumo-related experiences for those who can't attend a tournament or want to delve deeper into the sport's culture.

• Sumo Stable Visits: Several travel agencies offer guided tours of sumo stables, where you can witness the wrestlers' rigorous morning training and learn about their daily lives.

• Sumo Restaurants: Enjoy a delicious chanko nabe meal while watching sumo demonstrations at restaurants like Yokozuna Tonkatsu Dosukoi Tanaka or Asakusa Sumo Club.

• Free Morning Practices: Catch a glimpse of sumo training for free at Arashio-beya stable in Nihonbashi or, occasionally, at Osaka's Otori Taisha Shrine.

• Explore Ryogoku: Discover sumo statues, chanko nabe restaurants, the Sumo Museum inside Ryogoku Kokugikan, and other cultural attractions like the Edo-Tokyo Museum, Sumida Hokusai Museum, and the Japanese Sword Museum.

5. Where to Stay in Ryogoku

Consider staying in Ryogoku for easy access to the tournaments and a chance to experience the authentic atmosphere of this sumo-centric district. Various accommodation options are available, from affordable business hotels like Pearl Hotel Ryogoku and Ryogoku View Hotel to more upscale choices like The Gate Hotel Ryogoku by Hulic.

We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan an unforgettable sumo experience in Tokyo! Don't forget to check out our other articles for more travel inspiration and tips for your Japan adventure.

Happy travels!

Warm regards,

Mata ne!

Your Friends at Moshi Moshi Travel Japan

Contact us today to start planning your Tokyo adventure!

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