TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ryogoku Kokugikan is the main stadium for sumo wrestling, located in Sumida Ward, Tokyo. The current building opened in 1985, and has since served as the venue for official sumo tournaments held in Tokyo. It is one of the few places where you can see the traditional sumo ring up close, and its greatest attraction is being able to experience firsthand the thrill of the ring-entering ceremony and the wrestlers' matches, as well as the rituals and manners unique to sumo.
The building also houses a sumo museum, which displays mawashi (sumo mawashi), historical documents, posters, etc. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy sumo-related goods and chanko nabe (hot pot), allowing you to experience sumo culture in a comprehensive way.
Highlights
- The sumo ring at a tournament: The moments when the wrestlers clash, compete, and start their bouts are very exciting. The yokozuna's entrance into the ring is a particular highlight.
- Sumo Museum: You can learn about the history of sumo by viewing materials related to the mawashi (sashes worn by wrestlers over the years) and sumo rings, often for free (some special exhibitions may require an admission fee).
- Masuseki Experience: Enjoy the traditional Japanese atmosphere of watching a match from a tatami-floored box seat. This is a popular spot for friends and family to sit and watch the match.
- Chanko Nabe and Shops: Enjoy sumo merchandise and snacks at the chanko restaurants and shops inside and outside the building.
- Events and ceremonies: Tours, special performances, photo sessions with wrestlers, etc. may be held (events may vary depending on the date).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line or Oedo Subway Line, or Ryogoku Station (JR East Exit / Oedo Line A3 Exit). It's about a 3-5 minute walk from JR Ryogoku Station, and about a 1-3 minute walk from the Toei Oedo Line.
- Other: It is within walking distance from Kuramae Station on the Toei Asakusa Line and Morishita Station on the subway, but is a bit far away.
- By car: Due to traffic congestion and limited parking spaces in the surrounding area, we recommend using public transportation. Traffic restrictions and congestion are expected during large events.
- Water access: Depending on the season, you can also enjoy plans to access the island by water bus or cruise on the Sumida River (ports of call vary depending on the route).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing a tournament: A few hours to a whole day (depending on the time of day you go). The tournament runs from morning until evening, so if you stay from early morning until the final day, it will take up the whole day. However, it is also possible to enjoy the atmosphere in half a day (2-4 hours).
- Sumo Museum only: Approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
- Museum + Chanko + Sightseeing in the area: 2-3 hours to half a day.
Nearby spots
- Edo-Tokyo Museum: Located right next to the Ryogoku Kokugikan, this large museum teaches about the history and culture of Tokyo from the Edo period to the present day.
- Along the Sumida River, Ryogoku Bridge: A great place for sightseeing, whether for a stroll or as a departure and arrival point for a Sumida River cruise. Also popular as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring.
- Ryogoku Sumo Restaurant District: There are many restaurants specializing in chanko nabe and sumo cuisine, so you can enjoy comparing different dishes.
- Tokyo Skytree: Just one or a few stops away by train. We recommend visiting both places together.
- Yokoamicho Park and Memorial Hall: Historical attractions and walking spots.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Tournaments (especially on weekends and the final day) are extremely crowded. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance. There will be long lines around the venue and at the shops.
- What to wear and bring: Although it is indoors, it may get hot with a large audience. Please wear light clothing and bring a drink you can carry with you (as specified by the venue). You may be required to remove your shoes in the box seats, so be careful with your socks.
- Manners: Show respect for the sumo ring and the wrestlers. It is important not to enter the ring with shoes on, not to touch the wrestlers without permission, and to follow announcements and instructions from the staff.
- Photography: Please follow the photography rules within the museum. Photography and videography may be restricted in some areas. Flash photography is often prohibited.
- Eating, drinking and smoking: Eating and drinking are permitted only in designated areas within the venue. Please note that smoking is prohibited outside of designated areas.
- Weather and Seasons: The Sumida River is crowded in spring during cherry blossom viewing season, and in summer temperatures are high, so precautions against heatstroke are necessary. Dress warmly in winter. Please check the tournament dates (January, May, September) and plan your visit accordingly.
- Foreign language support: While announcements and guides are mainly in Japanese, pamphlets and some guides within the facility may be in English. If you are visiting for the first time, it is a good idea to arrive early and check at the information desk.
