Experience Sumo at Ryogoku Kokugikan: The Ultimate Guide 2025

Everything you need to know about purchasing sumo tickets

• Ticket types explained (Arena, Box, Balcony, Unreserved)
• Official vs resale: where to buy safely
• Price ranges and what to expect (¥2,200-¥14,800)
• English booking platforms comparison

Insider strategies for affordable sumo experiences

• Same-day ticket lottery (¥2,200-¥3,800)
• Standing room options
• Best days to buy (weekday early rounds)
• Student discounts and group rates

What to do when tournaments sell out

• Authorized resale platforms
• Day-of availability secrets
• Alternative ways to experience sumo

Want to know exactly where your seat is? Our guide includes high-resolution official floor plans you won't find elsewhere.

• 📍 First floor map: tamari ringside & masu boxes
• 📍 Second floor map: all chair seat sections
• 🔍 Seat finder tutorial with screenshots
• 💺 Click-to-zoom feature for reading tiny details
• ✅ Quick reference table with all pricing

Our detailed comparison of every seating option

• Masu box seats: traditional experience explained
• Arena seats: front-row excitement
• Balcony advantages (full view, comfort, price)
• Where locals sit vs tourists

Technical details about the arena

• 11,098 total capacity breakdown
• Restroom locations and wait times
• Food vendors and concession areas
• WiFi, charging stations, accessibility

Free museum inside the venue (worth visiting!)

• Historical artifacts and wrestler memorabilia
• Open weekdays 10 AM - 4:30 PM
• Tournament days: special exhibits
• What you'll see: photos, paintings, ceremonial items

Comparing DIY vs organized tour experiences

• What's included in guided tours
• Price comparison: free vs $80-150 tours
• Behind-the-scenes access differences
• Tour operator reviews (real experiences)
• Who should book a tour vs go independently

Complete list of sumo stables in the Ryogoku area

• Arashio Stable (most tourist-friendly)
• Kasugano Stable (strict but rewarding)
• Iseghama Stable (good for beginners)
• Contact info and visiting policies for each

Dress code, comfort, and cultural considerations

• Summer tournaments (May/July): light, breathable clothing
• Winter tournaments (Jan/March): layers recommended
• No strict dress code, but cultural tips
• What to avoid wearing

Your complete dining strategy

• Inside the arena: bento boxes, snacks, drinks
• Can you bring outside food? (Yes, within reason)
• Best chanko nabe restaurants nearby
• Pre-match breakfast spots

What you can and cannot photograph

• Camera policy: no flash during matches
• Best photo opportunities and timing
• Instagram-worthy spots around the venue
• Wrestler autographs and photo etiquette

Hour-by-hour breakdown of a sumo day

• Doors open: 8:00 AM
• Lower division matches: 8:30 AM-2:00 PM
• Top division entrance ceremony: 3:40 PM
• Final matches: 5:00-6:00 PM

Complete transportation guide from anywhere in Tokyo

• JR Ryogoku Station (2 min walk) - EASIEST
• Toei Oedo Line: Ryogoku Station (7 min walk)
• From Tokyo Station: 10 min by JR Sobu Line
• From Shinjuku: 25 min via JR

Should you drive? Probably not, but here's the info

• Nearby parking garages and rates
• Why public transit is recommended
• Bicycle parking options

Where to stay for easy access to sumo

• Walking distance options (5-10 min)
• Budget to luxury recommendations
• Package deals: hotel + tournament tickets
• Ryogoku View Hotel (view of the venue!)