Sumo wrestling is one of the most unique and iconic sports in the world, so if you ever find yourself in Tokyo, you should definitely experience it firsthand. Unlike other sports, sumo wrestling has ancient roots that tie into the Shinto religion and it’s fascinating to learn about how it grew to become Japan’s national sport today.

Watching two muscular champions battle it out to a thousand cheers is intoxicating and you’ll find yourself caught up in the excitement before long. Whether you want to purchase sumo wrestling tickets to watch a tournament or try out the sport for yourself, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.

Here's all you need to know about sumo wrestling, one of the most captivating shows in Tokyo.

What is a sumo wrestling show about?

Sumo wrestling is an ancient art which dates back almost 2,000 years, although its form today differs greatly from its origins. It originated from a ritual dance, which was performed in prayer to the Shinto gods for a prosperous harvest. From the Heian era, sumo wrestling evolved into a form of entertainment for the emperor and other nobility.

Over the centuries, sumo wrestling became more accessible to all and secured its spot as Japan's number one spectator sport. The sport is exclusively performed by men, and these individuals adhere to a strict daily regime. Each wrestler must weigh around 70 kilograms, although many weigh significantly more and are often defined by their round, yet muscular, physiques.

During a fight, punching, kicking and gouging are all prohibited, and participants must instead wrestle, slap and trip their opponents out of the ring or off their feet.

By purchasing tickets for a training sessions, you can gain insight into the daily routine that athletes push through in preparation for a fight. The benefit of watching a training session is that you can get close to the ring, which the professionals try to force each other out of in order to win.

Alternatively, you can go the more traditional route and watch a sumo wrestling tournament where the strongest athletes go head-to-head to be declared the champion.

You can't help feeling your adrenaline build as you get swept up in the cheers and boos of the crowds as the opponents wrestle for the top spot. These competition happen in several rounds over a period of around 2 weeks, as more and more contestants are knocked out.

If you want to immerse yourself further in the culture, you can become a sumo wrestler for the day, eating and training how the professionals do. You'll learn about the rules of sumo wrestling and challenge a retired wrestler if you're feeling brave.

And, if you really want to discover Japanese traditions, you can choose to participate in a walking tour of Tokyo alongside a real-life sumo wrestler. They will take you to the sights most closely linked with the sport, such as the Ryōguku Kokugikan sumo stadium.

Whichever type of sumo wrestling show you choose, you'll gain more knowledge and experience of traditional Japanese culture and customs.

What are the prices of sumo wrestling tickets?

Sumo wrestling ticket prices vary between each excursion, depending on whether you wish to watch a traditional tournament, train like a sumo wrestler or catch a training session.

Typically, you'll pay from US$70 per person to watch a training session between professionals.

If you wish to watch a tournament, you'll pay around US$100 per person. For a training session with yourself and a retired wrestler, you'll pay US$110 per person, including lunch.

Those who want to explore the city can opt for a Tokyo walking tour with a sumo wrestler guide for around US$360 per person.

Are there any sumo wrestling combined tickets available?

Sumo and samurai culture tour

Begin this combination tour by diving in and experiencing life as a sumo wrestler. You’ll participate in a training session so that you can see the hard work that goes into maintaining the athlete’s strength, before trying your best to knock an opponent out of the ring.

Journey down the Sumida River on a relaxing boat trip to reach the Ejimasugiyama Shinto Shrine. It was at this holy site that ancient samurai warriors would pray to the gods for strength, guidance and endurance.

End your excursion by taking a trip to Eko-in Buddhist Temple, which once housed great sumo wrestling tournaments.

When is the best time to see sumo wrestling?

Sumo wrestling happens in Japan all day, every day, meaning that you can participate in a tour whenever it suits you. This is the national sport of the country, making it a must-see before the end of your Japanese vacation.

If it’s a tournament you’d like to see, you should consider planning your vacation for January, May or September when the annual competitions occur. These typically last 15 days and fall on similar dates each year.

If you’re a major sports fan, you may wish to see a match during the first couple of days of your vacation. Alternatively, others may wish to explore the city before booking their sumo wrestling tickets toward the end of their trip.

Where do sumo wrestiling tours take place?

Sumo wrestling tours happen at training grounds across Tokyo. However, many of these take place in the Yokoami district, fondly known as the “sumo district.”

You’ll usually meet your guide at a well-known landmark in this neighborhood, which is easy to reach by Tokyo’s fuss-free subway system and travel to the exact address together.

All tournaments happen at the Ryōguku Kokugikan sumo stadium, which is accessible via the subway lines.

When booking your sumo wrestling tickets, you’ll be able to find out the meeting place of each tour to arrange necessary transportation beforehand.

Tokyo’s subway runs late into the nighttime, meaning you can return to your accommodation after your tour easily and safely.

What time does it start?

As there is such a variety in the type of sumo wrestling activities you can see, there is also a major difference in each sumo wrestling tour’s start time. This is great news for travelers, as it means that no matter when they have space in their itinerary, they’ll be able to witness the thrilling sport.

Training sessions usually take place in the morning, as do sumo and samurai tours, while walking tours of Tokyo with a sumo guide tend to begin in the early afternoon. Sumo tournaments take place in the mid-afternoon and last several hours.

Is there a dress code?

There is no specific dress code needed in order to watch a sumo training session or tournament.

However, if you choose to book an excursion that includes participating in a training session, you’ll want to wear light and loose clothing, preferably gym wear.

Otherwise, you may consider opting for modest and comfortable attire as Japan tends to be a relatively conservative nation.

Can I cancel or change sumo wrestling tickets?

All tours are different, however, it is usually possible to cancel your sumo wrestling tickets if you do so in advance.

The majority of tour providers are happy to issue a refund so long as you make them aware 7 or more days before your events. Others are more lenient and allow you to make changes up to 24 hours in advance.

Check the terms and conditions of each tour before booking to ensure you’re aware of its limitations.

What other shows are on in Tokyo?

Travel tips

Flash photography is usually prohibited at all sumo wrestling tournaments and training sessions, and your phone is required to be on silent mode.
When purchasing sumo wrestling tickets, check how many other travelers your excursion allows as many take place in a small group, which provides a more personal experience.
If your tour includes a training session, bring a spare set of clothes to change into afterward as sumo wrestling can be an intense workout.

Sumo Wrestling in Tokyo: Tickets