Tokyo: Grand Sumo May Tournament
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
As the September options are almost taken, we are excited to offer a special option on October 7th. In addition to bouts by the grand champions and top division wrestlers preceded by the gorgeous ring entering ceremonies by them, this option gives you a perfect chance to view sumo from various angles including its inception; sumo was an imperial court ritual to pray for a good harvest. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you to view how sumo was played in the court more than 1,000 years ago.
+++ The description below applies to the September options +++
The tour consists of two parts: visit to sumo-related historical landmarks (optional) and viewing bouts in the sumo arena with real-time commentaries－both are accompanied by a sumo expert guide. While you can take the optional landmark tour, we have also prepared a 15:00 to 18:00 o’clock option where one can just join the sumo viewing part.
Availability is limited. Current available dates are May 13th, 15th, and 19th.
Available options
1PM (Chair B) - With dinner_54
1PM (ChairB) - No dinner_54
Starting point:<br/>Ryogoku Sta., 1-chōme-4-29 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
3PM (Chair B) - Wtih dinner_36
Starting point:<br/>Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena, 1-chōme-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
3PM (Chair B) - No dinner_54
3PM (Chair B) - Wtih dinner_54
3PM (Chair B) - No dinner_36
Starting point:<br/>Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena, 1-chōme-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
1PM (ChairB) - No dinner_36
Starting point:<br/>Ryogoku Sta., 1-chōme-4-29 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
1PM (Chair B) - With dinner_36
Starting point:<br/>Ryogoku Sta., 1-chōme-4-29 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
What's included
Cheer-up goods to root for a particular wrestler
All Fees and Taxes
Information package of tournament information, sumo ranking, and profiles of prominent wrestlers
For a group of 3 or more, headsets for each to hear the guide's voice clearly even from distance
Guiding in English by a sumo expert guide
Detailed itinerary
1
13:00 - 15:00
This part (optional) is to deepen knowledge about sumo history and culture to enhance joy of watching sumo later in the arena. Toward that end, you will visit historical sumo landmarks and sumo stables.
Major must-see landmarks the guide will take you to are:
1) Hakkaku-beya Sumo Stable (15min)
2) Nomi no Sukune Shrine (15min)
3) Ryogoku Kokugikan (30min)
4) Ryōgoku Edo NOREN (30min)
5) Ekō-in (15min)
6) Kasugano-beya Sumo Stable (15min)
2
Stop 2
15:00 - 18:00
Viewing bouts at the arena
1.The guide will walk you through inside the arena to see
1) Murals (10m)
2) Championship prizes (10m)
3) Sumo museum (15min)
4) Paintings / photos of successive Yokozunas (15min)
2.You will receive (see the photo section):
- A special pamphlet showing photos and profiles of wrestlers with English translation. The guide will walk you through it as you watch fights so that you can watch them with background information.
- A cheer-up towel for a particular wrestler. The guide will teach you how to use it when the wrestler is going to fight. Join the enthusiam of the arena by cheering-up the wrestler.
3
18:00 -
Chanko-nabe dinner (Optional)
The guide will take you to one of the best chanko-nabe restaurants near the arena. Enjoy the nutrient hot-pot dish eaten by sumo wrestlers to build their bodies and muscles. ; drinks are not included.
What's not included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Drinks for the chanko-nabe dinner option; to be ordered separately.
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
17 reviews
5★
15
4★
0
3★
0
2★
2
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
90 reviews
5★
86
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
1. In addition to bouts by the grand champions and top division wrestlers preceded by the gorgeous ring entering ceremonies by them, the newly added Oct. 7th option gives you a perfect chance to view sumo from various angles including its inception.
2. This tour comes in several options depending on the combination of the following: 1) Landmark/history tour 13:00 - 15:00 Sumo-related historical landmark guided tour. This is a walking tour around Ryogoku, a sumo town, to increase the joy of watching the tournament by learning a lot about sumo from your knowledgeable guide as you visit many sumo-related must-see spots before you actually view the bouts in the arena. 2) Viewing bouts in the arena 15:00 - 18:00 Enjoy the bouts as you listen to the real-time commentaries from your expert guide, and get excited as you join the excited spectators! 3) Chanko dinner option This nutrient dish is the centerpiece of sumo wrestlers’ diets to gain weight and muscles to build their bodies. 4) Chair option We will use chair seats on the balcony in the arena; if you opt to stay on the first floor, you would need to sit on a flat floor. This means you can sit comfortably in a chair all the time, unlike box seats on the first floor where four spectators are seated on a 1.3m x 1.3m flat square floor with cushions. You will be seated either in chair B or C ; the seating map in the photo section shows their detailed locations.
3. While infants (0 - 3 year old) are free of charge, please let us know how many of them will come if you take any to the tour.
Meeting point
All travelers who chose either of the following options will meet at the left side of the Kokugikan arena's front gate at 15:00 o'clock.
1) 3PM - with chanko-nabe dinner option
2) 3PM - without chanko dinner
The guide will be holding a recognizable signboard.
Important notes
Please find the seating information below. You will be seated on chair B seats or chair C seats.
https://sumo.pia.jp/en/seat/kokugikan-2f.jsp
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.
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per person
Price varies by option
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