When are sumo tournaments held in Tokyo in 2026?

Tokyo hosts three of the six annual Grand Sumo Tournaments at Ryogoku Kokugikan: the January Tournament (Hatsu Basho), typically held in mid-to-late January; the May Tournament (Natsu Basho), typically in mid-May; and the September Tournament (Aki Basho), typically in mid-September. Each tournament lasts 15 days. Exact dates are announced by the Japan Sumo Association and may vary, so always check the official schedule.

Can I watch sumo online if I can't go to Tokyo?

Yes. ABEMA streams all Grand Sumo Tournament bouts live and free within Japan. If you are outside Japan, you can use a VPN service like NordVPN to access the ABEMA stream. NHK World also provides English-language sumo highlights. See our guide on how to watch sumo online for full details.

Sumo in Tokyo: Complete Guide to Tournaments, Practice & Ryogoku (2026)

Q: Can I watch sumo morning practice (asageiko) in Tokyo?

Yes. Some of the approximately 45 sumo stables in Tokyo may open their morning practice sessions to visitors, though access policies vary widely. Practice typically runs from around 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Some stables accept walk-ins, while others require advance reservations or a guided tour. Strict etiquette rules apply — silence, no flash photography, and respectful behavior are required.

Q: What is there to do in Ryogoku besides watching sumo?

Ryogoku is Tokyo's sumo district and offers the free Sumo Museum inside Kokugikan, numerous chanko nabe restaurants (many run by retired wrestlers), the Edo-Tokyo Museum nearby, sumo-themed shops, and the chance to spot active wrestlers walking through the neighborhood. Even outside of tournament season, the area is worth visiting.

Q: How much do sumo tickets cost in Tokyo?

Prices vary by seat type. As a general guide: ringside tamari seats are approximately 20,000 yen per person; box seats (masu-seki) range from roughly 10,000 to 42,000+ yen for a four-person box; chair seats range from approximately 3,500 to 11,000 yen; and general admission standing tickets are approximately 2,800 yen. Prices are subject to change — always check the official JSA website for current pricing.

How do I buy sumo tickets in Tokyo?

Tickets go on sale approximately one month before each tournament through the official Ticket Oosumo website. Popular dates sell out within minutes. General admission tickets (~¥2,800) are available same-day at the Kokugikan box office on a first-come, first-served basis. Third-party resellers and tour packages are also an option at higher prices.

Can I watch sumo morning practice in Tokyo?

Yes. Many sumo stables open their morning practice to visitors. Practice typically runs from around 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Some stables accept walk-ins, while others require advance reservations or booking through a guided tour operator. Strict etiquette applies — complete silence and respectful behavior are mandatory. Guided tours are generally the most reliable option for international visitors.

What is there to do in Ryogoku besides watching sumo?

Ryogoku offers the free Sumo Museum, numerous chanko nabe restaurants (many run by retired wrestlers), Ekoin Temple (historical sumo site), the Sumida Hokusai Museum, sumo-themed shops, and the experience of walking through a neighborhood where active wrestlers live and train. Even outside tournament season, it's a rewarding area to explore.

Can I watch sumo online from outside Japan?

Yes. ABEMA streams all tournament bouts live and free within Japan. From outside Japan, use a VPN like NordVPN to connect through a Japanese server and access the stream. NHK World also offers English-language sumo highlights globally. See our guide to watching sumo online for full details.

How much do sumo tickets cost in Tokyo?

Prices vary by seat type: ringside tamari seats are approximately ¥20,000/person; box seats (masu-seki) range from roughly ¥10,000 to ¥42,000+ per four-person box; chair seats range from approximately ¥3,500 to ¥11,000; and general admission standing tickets are approximately ¥2,800. Prices are subject to change — always check the official Ticket Oosumo site for current pricing.