Ryogoku Kokugikan: Visiting the Sacred Land of Grand Sumo

Sacred Land of Grand Sumo: Ryogoku

Ryogoku Kokugikan in Sumida Ward, Tokyo is the sumo hall where Grand Sumo tournaments (15 days each) are held in January, May, and September annually. The arena accommodating about 11,000 is often sold out during tournaments, filled with passionate atmosphere.

Sumo Viewing Appeal

Watching Grand Sumo is an excellent opportunity to experience Japanese traditional culture live. The powerful bouts of wrestlers (torikumi) have completely different immediacy from watching on TV. Watching from masu-seki (4-person box seats) is recommended.

Chanko Nabe and Downtown Culture

Many "chanko" restaurants offering the stew wrestlers eat are in the Ryogoku area. Many are operated by former wrestlers, allowing authentic chanko enjoyment. Visit nearby attractions including the Edo-Tokyo Museum (currently under renovation) and the former Yasuda Garden.