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History of Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is Japan’s most traditional sport — and one of its most fascinating cultural experiences. From powerful bouts to centuries-old rituals, watching a sumo match in Tokyo gives you a front-row seat to living history. Here's everything you need to know about sumo: its history, how it works, and the best places to see it live.

Kawasaki: Sumo Practice Show at Kanagawa with Chanko-Nabe Hot Pot, Photo & T-shirt

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4 hr.
Meals included
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Tokyo: Sumo Practice Show with Chanko-Nabe Hot Pot, Photo, and Souvenir Set

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2 hr.
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Tokyo: Luxury Sumo Show Experience with Wagyu Beef, Drinks, and Geisha Dance

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2 hr.
Guided tour
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The SUMO show with Lunch in Tokyo

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1 hr. 30 min.
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Tokyo Sumo Tournament LIVE: Reserved Tickets & Expert Guide at Ryōgoku Kokugikan (in January)

5 hr.
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A brief history of Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestlers compete on the dohyo, surrounded by an audience.

Sumo has been practiced in Japan for over 1,500 years. Originally part of Shinto rituals to please the gods and predict harvest outcomes, it gradually evolved into a court ceremony during the Nara and Heian periods (8th–12th centuries).

During the Edo period (1603–1867), sumo gained popularity with the public. Matches were held to raise money for temples and shrines, while professional sumo organizations and training stables were established. Many of the customs from this era — such as topknots, ceremonial dress, and salt purification — are still followed today.

Rules of Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestlers in a ring ceremony at a Fukuoka tournament.

The Ring (Dohyo)

Sumo matches take place in a circular ring called a dohyo, which is about 15 feet wide. It’s built from clay and covered with a thin layer of sand.

Sumo wrestlers practicing at a Tokyo stable during morning tour.

How a match is won

A wrestler wins the match by either forcing their opponent out of the ring or making any part of their body, apart from the soles of the feet, touch the ground.

Sumo wrestler performing ritual at Tokyo tournament.

Pre-match ritual

Before each bout, wrestlers, known as rikishi, perform Shinto rituals that include stomping to demonstrate strength and readiness, clapping to signal focus, and throwing salt to purify the ring and ward off bad spirits.

Sumo wrestlers and referee in a tournament ring, Osaka audience watching.

Match start and duration

The referee signals the start of the match when both wrestlers kneel with their hands on the ground, and while most bouts last only a few seconds, each is decided by one of 48 legal winning techniques, known as kimarite, such as throws or force-outs.

Sumo wrestlers competing in a traditional ring during a Sumo Show Experience.

Prohibited moves

Certain actions are strictly prohibited in sumo, including hair pulling, punching, striking the head, choking, and groin attacks. Using an improperly fastened belt or performing illegal moves can also lead to an immediate loss or disqualification.

Sumo wrestlers practicing at a Tokyo sumo stable.

Rankings & division

Sumo wrestlers are classified into six divisions, with rankings adjusted after each tournament based on performance; depending on their win–loss record, a wrestler may be promoted or demoted, and matches can also end if a wrestler is disqualified or unable to continue.

Where to see live sumo wrestling?

Sumo Museum

  • Location: Inside Ryogoku Kokugikan
  • The Sumo Museum highlights the history of the sport. You’ll find ceremonial aprons, old portraits, and ritual items used in past matches. Entry is free. It’s a good cultural stop, even when no tournaments are happening.

Ryogoku Kokugikan Stadium

  • Location: Ryogoku district, Tokyo
  • This is Japan’s main sumo arena. It hosts major tournaments every January, May, and September. Each tournament lasts 15 days. The final few days feature the top-ranked wrestlers. The stadium seats over 11,000 people and has a roof shaped like a Shinto shrine.

Musashigawa-beya Sumo Stable

  • Location: Edogawa City
  • This stable offers an up-close look at how wrestlers train. Visitors sit on tatami mats to watch early morning sessions. Each session allows 20–40 people. Some experiences include meeting wrestlers after practice. It’s a great choice if you’re not in Tokyo during a tournament.

Arashio-beya Sumo Stable

  • Location: Chuo City, near Sumida River
  • Arashio-beya is another stable where you can watch morning training. Practice happens from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. You can view for free from outside through glass or book a paid spot inside. It’s calm, respectful, and a very traditional way to see sumo without the crowds.

Frequently asked questions about sumo wrestling

What is the origin of sumo wrestling?

Sumo wrestling dates back over 1,500 years and began as a Shinto ritual performed to entertain the gods and ensure a bountiful harvest. Its spiritual roots still shape every match today—from the salt purification to the ceremonial stomping.

Is sumo wrestling just a sport or a cultural ritual?

It’s both! While sumo is Japan’s national sport, it’s steeped in sacred traditions. Everything from the wrestler’s topknot to the dohyō (ring) ceremonies carries centuries of spiritual meaning.

Can I learn about sumo wrestling’s history during the experience?

Yes! The guided tour dives into the sport’s deep-rooted past, exploring how it evolved from ancient court entertainment into the competitive spectacle it is today.

Where does the tour take place?

You’ll visit an active sumo stable in Tokyo—where real rikishi (wrestlers) live and train. It’s like stepping into a living museum of sumo’s legacy.

What will I see during the sumo experience tour?

You’ll witness a live morning practice, learn traditional rituals, and even try basic sumo moves with the wrestlers. There’s also a behind-the-scenes peek at their living quarters.

Is this experience suitable for families with kids?

Absolutely! Kids love the action and energy of the training session. Plus, making dumplings with wrestlers makes it an unforgettable, family-friendly experience.

Is this a guided tour?

Yes, it’s a 4-hour guided experience with an English-speaking expert who explains the cultural significance and sumo traditions in a fun and accessible way.

Can I interact with the sumo wrestlers?

You sure can! After the training session, guests are encouraged to take photos, chat, and even challenge the rikishi in a light-hearted match.

Are there any accessibility features for visitors with limited mobility?

Most areas are ground level and accessible. However, there may be limited space for wheelchairs or walking aids during the ring session.

Can I take photos during the training session?

Yes, but respectfully and without flash. You’ll also get a chance to take photos with the wrestlers afterward.