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Ryogoku Kokugikan: Tokyo's Sumo Mecca

Experience the power and tradition of Japan's national sport at the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena in Tokyo.

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The Ryogoku Kokugikan is Tokyo's premier sumo wrestling arena, hosting three of the six annual Grand Sumo Tournaments. Opened in 1985, this modern stadium replaced the original 1909 Kokugikan and can accommodate over 10,000 spectators. Experiencing a sumo tournament here is a must for any visitor seeking an authentic taste of Japanese culture.

A brief summary to Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially for box seats, as they tend to sell out quickly.
  • Arrive early to explore the arena, soak in the atmosphere, and witness pre-match rituals.
  • Visit the Sumo Museum to learn about the history and culture of sumo wrestling.
  • Try a chanko nabe, a traditional sumo wrestler's stew, at a local restaurant.
  • Take photos with life-size panels of sumo wrestlers at the main entrance during tournaments.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Ryogoku Kokugikan is easily accessible by public transport. Take the JR Sobu Line to Ryogoku Station (West Exit) or the Toei Oedo Line to Ryogoku Station (A3 exit). The arena is a short walk from either station. From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Akihabara Station, then transfer to the JR Sobu Line to Ryogoku Station. The journey takes approximately 14 minutes and costs ¥130-¥390. Alternatively, take the Toei Bus from Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit to Kuramae 1-chome. The journey takes approximately 33 minutes and costs ¥210. A single subway ride in Tokyo typically costs between ¥170 and ¥320. A Toei Bus flat fare is ¥210 for adults.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. From Tokyo Station, a taxi ride to Ryogoku Kokugikan takes approximately 4 minutes and costs between ¥2300 and ¥2800. Taxis in Tokyo charge a base fare of ¥500 for the first 1096 meters, with an additional ¥100 for every 255 meters thereafter. When traveling at less than 10 km per hour, an additional ¥100 is charged per 1 minute and 35 seconds.

  • Walking

    It is possible to walk to Ryogoku Kokugikan from Tokyo Station. The distance is approximately 3.6 kilometers and takes around 43 minutes. From Ryogoku Station (JR Sobu Line), the arena is just across the street from the West Exit. From Ryogoku Station (Oedo Line), take Exit A3 and walk about 5 minutes west.

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Discover more about Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena

Ryogoku Kokugikan, located in the Ryogoku district of Tokyo, is the heart of sumo wrestling in Japan. This iconic arena hosts three of the six annual Grand Sumo Tournaments (honbasho) in January, May, and September, drawing fans from across the globe. The current Ryogoku Kokugikan, opened in 1985, is the second arena to bear the name. The original Kokugikan, built in 1909, was Japan's first indoor arena for sumo. It was severely damaged during World War II and later used as a military warehouse. The current arena was built on a former rail freight yard next to Ryogoku Station. Inside the Kokugikan, visitors can witness the thrilling spectacle of sumo wrestling, where immense athletes clash in a display of strength, কৌশল, and tradition. The arena has a seating capacity of over 11,000. Ringside seats offer an up-close and personal view, while box seats (masu-seki) provide a more relaxed setting for groups. Arena seats on the second level are a more affordable option. The Kokugikan also houses the Sumo Museum, which displays a collection of sumo-related artifacts, including woodblock prints, ceremonial aprons, and historical documents. The museum is free to enter on weekdays when tournaments are not being held. Even when tournaments aren't taking place, the Ryogoku area is steeped in sumo culture. Visitors can explore sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, and sample chanko nabe, a hearty stew favored by sumo wrestlers, at local restaurants.

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