Sumo Wrestling in Japan : Tournaments, Tickets and More
To the untrained eye, Sumo is a simple pushing and thrusting match between two overweight men in a small ring. Bouts are called when one of the fighters is forced out of the ring. As simple as it gets, right? The truth is slightly more complicated, and much more interesting.
But the fact that sumo bouts are wrapped up in seconds, and that most fights are very easy to follow (ending when one fighter is forced from the ring or anything other than the soles of his feet touch the ring), make it the perfect observer sport even for casual onlookers.
> Nihon Sumo Kyokai (official website)
The Sumo Tournaments
Professional sumo tournaments, known as "basho", are held in Japan. There are 6 official sumo tournaments held each year, and they take place in specific cities in Japan. The months in which these tournaments are held are consistent, and they occur every two months. The six annual sumo tournaments are held in the following locations and months:
January: Tokyo (Ryogoku Kokugikan)
March: Osaka (Edion Arena Osaka)
May: Tokyo (Ryogoku Kokugikan)
July: Nagoya (Dolphins Arena)
September: Tokyo (Ryogoku Kokugikan)
November: Fukuoka (Fukuoka Kokusai Center)
These tournaments last for 15 days each and are a major attraction for sumo fans in Japan and around the world. Sumo wrestlers, also known as "rikishi", compete in these tournaments to earn ranking points and ascend the sumo hierarchy. The tournaments are a cultural and sporting spectacle, featuring various rituals, ceremonies, and of course, the exciting sumo bouts.
Tickets for Sumo in Japan
Watching sumo live is quite impressive. Sumo seating is divided into regular seats and box seats. You can check the details of the tickets in English on this website.
Sumo Wrestling Practice Stables
Even if you do not get to see a proper tournament for whatever reason, there is always the 'asageiko' morning practice option at the stables in which the wrestlers live in Tokyo. Best visited in the month prior to the opening day of tournaments scheduled to be held in Tokyo, asageiko is free to watch. Please check Arashiobeya website for further details.
Related Websites for Sumo Information
Nihon Sumo Kyokai
Ticket information and Tour schedule, any other information of what Sumo is all about.
http://www.sumo.or.jp/en/index
Sumo Musium
Exhibits wide range of materials related to the history of sumo. (Note: During the three Grand Sumo Tournaments held in Tokyo annually the museum is open every day but only to people actually attending the tournament.)
http://www.sumo.or.jp/EnSumoMuseum
Sumo Related Books
Click the image(s) to see details.
Aikido Dojos in Japan
Aikido is a style of Japanese martial arts that is relatively new. Aikido focuses on defending its practitioners without injuring their attackers. Aikido does not have tournaments or fights since the purpose is to work and train together rather than defeating an opponent. Aikido means "way of the harmonious spirit" in Japanese.
English-Speaking Gyms in Tokyo
Find english friendly gyms and fitness clubs in Tokyo. You can also learn about Japanese Gym's etiquette and rules.
Karate Dojos & Karate in Japan
Discover local karate schools in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Okinawa, the birthplace of this martial art, offering English classes for all levels.
Indoor Sports: Japan's Playground Unroofed
Explore Japan's indoor sports realm, a weather-proof haven of fun, camaraderie, and a kaleidoscope of activities. Discover your next sporty spree here!
Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Japan
There are various dojos throughout Tokyo where you can take classes in English, just as there are for karate. The Kodokan Judo Institute, which has at least one English-speaking instructor, is a fantastic alternative for anyone interested in learning this unique martial art.
Kendo Dojos in Japan
If you're interested in learning and competing in Kendo in English, there are many schools in Japan where you can do so. If you wish to see a match or two, there are Kendo competitions held throughout the year. The greatest fighters compete in All Japan Kendo Federation tournaments.
