What other travelers are saying about Ryogoku Kokugikan
I had seen sumo wrestling on TV before, so getting the chance to attend a live tournament in Tokyo was something I was really looking forward to. I researched how to buy tickets ahead of time , the process was surprisingly easy. I purchased the tickets online and collected them from a Seven Eleven convenience store in Japan, which I then brought with me to the arena on the day.
Walking into the Kokugikan, we were amazed by the size of the arena. It’s massive, with a huge number of spectator seats all surrounding a single raised ring. From our seats up high (way up in the “nosebleeds”), the ring looked smaller than I expected. But during breaks, we walked around the lower level and got a much closer view of the action, which added a whole new level of appreciation.
The matches themselves were fascinating, each bout was intense but over quickly, and the rituals before each one were just as interesting. We thought we’d stay for about three hours but ended up staying for over five. The energy in the arena was fantastic, and the crowd was fully engaged.
If you're in Tokyo, this is a must-see cultural and sporting experience. I’d absolutely go again.
The Ryogoku area in Tokyo is practically synonymous with sumo wrestling. It’s the heart of Japan’s sumo culture and tradition.
Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall): The main sumo stadium in Japan. Three of the six annual Grand Sumo Tournaments (honbasho) are held here — in January, May, and September.
Great experience and very nice venue. Got to see the retirement of one of their famous wrestlers and it’s such a great way to see the Japanese sumo culture.
Must visit for anyone visiting Tokyo. Highly recommended
Excellent cultural place.
Not limited to Sumo tournaments as it was the venue for an anniversary concert by a popular japanese math rock band, Toe.
Great pleasure to see Sumo wrestler with my own eyes, Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena is a thrilling dive into Japanese tradition. Just steps from Ryogoku Station, this iconic venue hosts grand sumo tournaments in January, May, and September. The atmosphere buzzes with taiko drums, colorful wrestler entrances, and explosive bouts on the elevated dohyō. From affordable second-tier seats, every clash—from scrappy lower divisions to top-tier titans—is gripping. The free Sumo Museum offers historical context, while chanko nabe and beer fuel the fun. Accessible, with wheelchair options, it’s a cultural must-see. A vibrant blend of ritual and raw power, Kokugikan earns five stars—unmissable for any Tokyo visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Sumo Museum is open year-round free of charge on weekdays. The main arena is closed outside the three annual tournaments in January, May, and September. To watch practice, visit nearby sumo stables during morning sessions with advance arrangements.
Lower divisions start 8:30 AM. Juryo division begins 2:30 PM. Top makuuchi division starts 4:00 PM with final matches around 6:00 PM. Arrive in the afternoon for top-ranked wrestlers or earlier for the full schedule.
Flash photography prohibited. Ringside seats require alertness for falling wrestlers. Remove shoes for masu-seki boxes. Food and drink permitted in most areas. Silence during rituals. Cushion throwing discouraged.
The Edo-Tokyo Museum is adjacent to the Kokugikan and covers Tokyo's history from the Edo period. Multiple chanko-nabe restaurants serve the traditional sumo wrestler hot pot, with some run by former wrestlers. Several active sumo stables operate within walking distance, though visits require advance arrangements. Sumo-themed shops are located throughout the neighborhood.
