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Sumo Museum: A Tribute to Japan's National Sport

Explore the history and traditions of Japan's national sport at the Sumo Museum, located inside Tokyo's iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan.

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Located within the Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo's famed sumo stadium, the Sumo Museum showcases the rich history and culture of sumo wrestling through rotating exhibits of woodblock prints, ceremonial aprons, and more. Admission is free, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japan's iconic sport.

A brief summary to Sumō Museum

  • Monday 12:30 pm-4 pm
  • Tuesday 12:30 pm-4 pm
  • Wednesday 12:30 pm-4 pm
  • Thursday 12:30 pm-4 pm
  • Friday 12:30 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's calendar in advance, as it may be closed for exhibit changes or other reasons.
  • During Grand Sumo Tournaments, museum entry requires a ticket to the sumo event.
  • Allow around 30 minutes to fully experience the museum's exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Sumo Museum is located inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan. From Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line, it's a one-minute walk. From Ryogoku Station on the Toei Oedo Subway Line, it's a five-minute walk from Exit A4. Subway fare from Tokyo Station to Ryogoku Station is approximately ¥200. JR train fare from Shinjuku Station to Ryogoku Station is approximately ¥220.

  • Walking

    From the Edo-Tokyo Museum, the Sumo Museum is a short walk away. Exit the Edo-Tokyo Museum and walk towards the Ryogoku Kokugikan. The Sumo Museum is located on the first floor of the stadium. There is no fee for walking.

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Discover more about Sumō Museum

The Sumo Museum, situated inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Sumida, Tokyo, is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the history and culture of sumo wrestling. Founded in 1954, the museum's collection originated from the extensive private collection of Tadamasa Sakai, a politician and avid sumo enthusiast. In January 1985, it moved to its current location within the Ryogoku Kokugikan. The museum's exhibits include *nishiki-e* (colored woodblock prints), *banzuke* (official ranking lists), and *kesho-mawashi* (ceremonial aprons). The museum has a single exhibition room, and displays are rotated six times a year to showcase different themes and items from its collection of approximately 30,000 pieces. These exhibits provide insight into the evolution of sumo, its legendary wrestlers, and the traditions that surround the sport. Visitors can view *ukiyo-e* (woodblock prints) of past *yokozuna* (top-ranking sumo wrestlers) and video footage from recent tournaments. The museum also functions as a research center, studying the history of sumo and hosting public conferences. Visiting the Sumo Museum offers a deeper appreciation for sumo's significance as a national sport and its cultural importance in Japan.

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