Sumo Stable Intimate Morning Practice

Traditionally, other companies offer sumo stable morning practice tours starting as early as 6 AM, have groups of over 30 people, and don’t allow guided commentary inside the stable, Japan Awaits offers a more personal and comfortable experience. Our tours begin at 8:00 AM for a relaxed start, and we keep group sizes small to ensure a more intimate setting. Guests also enjoy comfortable seating options instead of sitting cross-legged on the floor for hours. With expert guides providing insightful commentary through audio headsets, guests gain a deeper understanding of sumo. Plus, we offer exclusive opportunities to talk with the sumo wrestlers and take photos, making this a unique, memorable experience.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• How far in advance should I book?
• Preparing an event requires some time, especially if reservations for restaurants or other venues are required. We recommend making a reservation as early as possible. Ideally, it should be 3 months before your travel date, or 1 month before the travel date at the very least. We may not be able to arrange your event in time so your booking request may be cancelled and you will receive a full refund.
• Seating option: cushions on the floor will be the default seating, but low chairs may also be available upon prior request. Please be aware that low chair seating is limited and will be guests who have mobility issues or other needs will have priority.
• Photography: Photography and videography are permitted, but please refrain from using flash. We advise checking your phone’s settings before entering the stable and before capturing any images.
• How to sit: Guests are welcome to sit however they please, but we ask that guests do not show the soles of their feet to the ring when seated (for example, extending their legs with their feet showing) as a form of respect.
• Age 6 and over. Children must be accompanied by adult (18 or older). Adult pricing applies to all guests of any age. Please note you may be required to show your ID for proof of age at the venue.
• Using audio headsets, you’ll clearly be able to hear the expert guide explain the history and culture of sumo wrestling, as well as learn about some of the most famous sumo wrestlers throughout history and today in Japan. Enjoy the intense matches with explanations from your expert guide and cheer on your favorite sumo wrestlers along with dedicated local fans.
• Before the tour, please notify us if you or someone in your group will be in a wheelchair. Please note that there is a wheelchair storage area on the first floor of the stable. Guests must be able to climb up one flight of stairs (5 steps) on their own (or with the help from a family member) as staff from the Stable will not be able to assist guests.
• No food inside: No outside food or drinks are allowed inside of the sumo stable (guests are allowed to bring bottled water or tea for personal consumption).
• A sumo wrestler typically travels to multiple locations throughout the year for tournaments and events, spending only a few months in each place. Our company took advantage of their stay in Tokyo to organize this event, limited entry to stable on a few selected date (see calendar)
• What if I’m late?
• We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time. Since this is a group tour, we may not be able to wait for you if you are late. Please kindly note that if you are late, you will not receive a refund for your booking.
• Lunch is included in the tour, featuring an authentic Chanko meal served by sumo wrestlers. The menu changes daily to match the wrestlers’ diet, offering a variety of authentic dishes similar to what they eat.
• Please understand that once we have accepted your request, changes cannot be made one week before the tour date.
• Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Visit Japan Awaits to learn more about our tours or inquire about a custom experience today