[Grand Sumo Tour] Secure hard-to-get tickets! March Osaka Tournament at Edion Arena Osaka (Sumo merchandise included)

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• Tour to see the great national sport of sumo wrestling

Sumo is Japan's national sport, and its wrestlers are not just fat people. Beneath the fat are superbly trained muscles. And despite their large build, they have incredible flexibility, with legs as strong as tree trunks. Their physical abilities are truly acrobatic, and wrestlers are the ultimate athletes, with bodies built for fighting. At the moment of a serious match, the sound of the wrestlers colliding with each other reverberates throughout the arena. Come and see the clash for yourself!

[Watching Points]

• More than 1,500 years of sumo history

Sumo, Japan's national sport, dates back to the age of mythology and is said to have started as a contest of strength. It continued as an imperial court event for around 300 years, taking place annually as a festival ritual to foretell the year's harvest, and then during the Warring States period, sumo became a form of training for samurai. In the Edo period, sumo evolved into a professional performance sport known as Kanjin-zumō, laying the foundation for modern professional sumo (ōzumō). Today, sumo has taken on a formal form as a structured sport, and is loved by many people. At the venue, you can experience sumo's long history and deep-rooted cultural traditions up close.

Yokozuna Dohyō-iri (Yokozuna Ring-entering Ceremony)

The sumo wrestlers step onto the ring and enter, which also serves as both an introduction and a formal ritual. Separate from the Jūryō and Makuuchi divisions’ Dohyō-iri, the Yokozuna Dohyō-iri is a distinctly sacred ceremony. Accompanied by two other wrestlers, the "tsuyuharai" (dew sweeper) and "tachimochi" (sword bearer), the Yokozuna makes his way down the Hanamichi (flower path) before stepping onto the ring. After clapping his hands in purification, the Yokozuna raises his leg high and performs the Shiko (stamping ritual). As he stomps his feet, the crowd erupts with the traditional cheer, "Yoisho!", resonating throughout the arena. The Yokozuna’s kesho-mawashi (ornate ceremonial apron) and the distinctive white rope (shimenawa) tied around his waist are also highlights.

FAQ:

Q&A

Q: Can I eat or drink while watching sumo?

A: Yes, you can eat and drink at your seat. However, bringing in outside food, bottled or canned drinks is not allowed. Inside the venue, soft drinks like tea and juice, as well as alcoholic beverages like beer and chuhai, will be available for purchase.

Q: What souvenirs or foods should I buy when I go to watch sumo wrestling?

A: The “cheering towels” printed with sumo wrestlers' names are a popular souvenir.

Q: What is the etiquette when watching sumo wrestling?

A: Since sumo matches can end in just a few seconds, please avoid moving around during the bouts to prevent blocking the view of other spectators. Photography is allowed in seating areas, but please avoid using a strong flash.

Q: Are there any dress codes when watching sumo wrestling?

A: There are no specific dress code requirements, and you can wear whatever you like. However, please avoid large hats or accessories that could obstruct the view of other spectators.