Osaka Grand Sumo Tournament Viewing Tour with Tickets
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the world of sumo, Japan’s national sport with over 1,500 years of history. This tour includes admission to the Grand Sumo Tournament in Osaka, where you’ll witness intense matches from reserved S/A/B/D-class seats. Before the action begins, a licensed English-speaking guide will give a cultural lecture to help you understand sumo’s deep traditions, rituals, and ranking system. You’ll also receive exclusive souvenirs: “The Sumo” English booklet and the official ranking chart (Banzuke-hyo). Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong fan, this experience offers a rare chance to feel the energy of the ring entrance ceremony, cheer with the crowd, and explore the arena’s sumo-themed shops. It’s the perfect way to connect with Japan’s living heritage.
Available options
3rd Floor A-class Chair Seat
Seats in the Main or Opposite: A-class seats are situated in the main or opposite main area of the arena on the 3rd floor
3rd Floor D-class Chair Seat
Seats in the corner areas: D-class seats are in the corner areas of the 3rd floor of the arena
3rd Floor S-class Chair Seat
Seats in the East or West area: S-class seats are the second closest to the sumo ring among the seats on the 3rd floor of the arena
3rd Floor B-class Chair Seat
Seats behind A-class seats: B-class seats are further from the sumo ring than A-class seats
What's included
"The Sumo" booklet in English
Grand Sumo Tournament viewing ticket [S, A, B or D-class chair seat]
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter [during Sumo Lecture]
"Banzuke-hyo" Sumo-ranking list
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
Enjoy the thrilling sumo matches, S & A-class 13:30-18:00 or B & D-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:
- Check out the 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. Not available on the last tournament day due to award ceremony preparations for the concluding program.
- The 1st floor Sumo Association official merchandise shop features direct sales of Sumo Association products planned and sold by stable masters.
- The 2nd and 3rd floor shops offer a range of sumo related items great for souvenirs of the March tournament.
What's not included
Fees other than those listed in Includes
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Tripadvisor
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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
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 booking at the child rate (typically for ages 4-11)
Stroller storage areas are available on the 2nd and 3rd floors. However, please note that we take no responsibility incase of theft, etc. in the arena. Strollers cannot be brought inside the arena seating area
Bringing food and drinks including alcohol into the venue is prohibited. Please purchase from vendors inside the arena
You will watch from 3rd floor seats (chair seating). Also, seat numbers cannot be designated. This information will be provided on the day of the tour
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
For those participating in a wheelchair, please indicate so in the remarks field when booking. As the wheelchair storage area is on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the venue, please go to the 3rd floor spectator seating on your own or with the help of an accompanying group member. Wheelchairs cannot be brought into your seat
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 our staff holding a JTB Sunrise Tours sign at Swissotel Nankai Osaka 6F Lobby Floor.
Important notes
• If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.
• Please note that participants may not join partway through the tour. Also, participants may join only from the meeting location specified in advance.
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
