basic information

Ryogoku is an area of Tokyo where the sumo stadium, many sumo stables, chanko restaurants and other sumo related sights can be found. It is the center of the sumo world.

Until the beginning of the 20th century, sumo tournaments were held outdoors at shrines and temples. In 1909, the first permanent sumo hall was built in the Ryogoku area, where outdoor sumo events had been held for a long time before.

The current Kokugikan is in the fourth permanent sumo stadium built in Tokyo. It has been in use since 1985, and is located just next to Ryogoku Station. It sits over 10,000 visitors and hosts three of the six annual sumo tournaments (in January, May and September).

H.I.S. Experience Japan Tours A Day in the Life of a Sumo Wrestler Watch early morning practice, socialize with sumo wrestlers and chat with the stablemaster while enjoying chankonabe.

Sumo stables are the places where sumo wrestlers live and train. Among the several dozens of sumo stables currently in existence, many are located in the Ryogoku area. At some stables, it is possible to view the sumo practice in the early morning hours.

Chanko nabe is the staple food of sumo wrestlers. It is a hot pot dish that comes in many varieties and contains vegetables, seafood and meat. There are several restaurants in the Ryogoku area that feature chanko nabe on their menus.

Inside the Kokugikan

Monument at Ekoin Temple, where sumo bouts used to be staged outdoors

Tour Packages

Sumo Tour Guided tour to see a sumo tournament in Tokyo. More vacation packages Individual or guided.

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how to get there

Take the JR Sobu Line or Subway Oedo Line to Ryogoku Station.

Orientation in Tokyo

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hotels & ryokan

Retreat Hamamatsucho A very clean, modern hotel. 4 min from JR Hamamatsucho Station. Free small breakfast. LAN connection and satellite TV. Park Hotel Tokyo Found in Shiodome, Tokyo, a member of Design Hotels. Extraordinary service with stunning view of Tokyo Tower. Shiba Park Hotel International tourist friendly hotel in Hamamatsucho. Easy access to major districts such as Ginza, Tokyo Tower and Zojoji Temple. Serviced Apartments Azabu Court Affordable daily weekly monthly extended stay apartments conveniently located in Azabu Hiroo Roppongi district. Hotel Villa Fontaine Stylish and reasonable hotels in 14 prime locations in the heart of the Tokyo Metropolitan Area and Osaka. Sakura Hotel Ikebukuro Hotel with comfort. Single rooms 6800 yen, doubles from 9000 yen. 4 minutes from Tokyo's second largest station Ikebukuro. Sakura Hostel Perfect for budget travelers and backpackers! Largest hostel in Tokyo. Friendly staff, cozy rooms, 24-hour internet lounge. Aizuya-inn Free internet, hot drinks, friendly foreign staff, and a warm welcome are what you will find at this Tokyo inn. Oak Hotel Budget hostel & hotel in the heart of Tokyo. Group booking, ISIC discount accepted. Shinjuku Apartment Free internet, furnished/traditional Japanese. 1 week 25,000yen, (6 tatami mat/private room) monthly/yearly discounts available. Khaosan Tokyo Guest House 2000yen/night with 24hour Free internet! Just 1-min from Asakusa station with great riverside view from the rooftop.

package tours

Atlas Japan Tour Customized tours emphasizing cultural experiences and communication to find real Japan. Education and exchange program available.

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