GRAND SUMO TOURNAMENT 2025

Experiencing Grand Sumo Tournament
November Kyushu Tournament tickets on sale now

OOZUMO Japan's Great National Sport

◆ Sumo is Japan's national sport. Its wrestlers are not just fat people.
Beneath the fat are well-trained, amazing muscles. And despite their large size, they have incredible flexibility, with legs as strong as tree trunks. Their physical abilities are truly acrobatic, making sumo wrestlers the ultimate athletes, with bodies built for fighting.
I hope you will come and see the clash with your own eyes!
Price (per person)…
8,000 yen to 10,500 yen

Recommended points

Tickets will be handed out on the day of the event

Tickets will be handed over to you at the venue on the day of the event, so you can make a reservation even if you are traveling and cannot receive them by mail!

Perfect as a souvenir! Comes with fun sumo goods

We will be giving away sumo towels and secret sumo merchandise as a surprise gift on the day!

Secure your hard-to-get tickets!

We have secured a large number of tickets to the hugely popular OOZUMO event! This is the purchasing strength that only a Japanese travel agency can offer.

OOZUMO Tournament - Select from the month of the event

The January OOZUMO Sumo Tournament is currently out of sale.

January Tournament Schedule

1st
1/11 (Sun)
2nd
1/12 (Mon)
3rd
1/13 (Tue)
Day 4
1/14 (Wed)
Day 5
1/15 (Thu)
Day 6
1/16 (Fri)
Day 7
1/17 (Sat)
Day 8
1/18 (Sun)
Day 9
1/19 (Mon)
Day 10
1/20 (Tue)
Day 11
1/21 (Wed)
Day 12
1/22 (Thu)
Day 13
1/23 (Fri)
Day 14
1/24 (Sat)
Final
1/25 (Sun)

access

map

2 minutes walk from the west exit of Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line

Turn right after leaving the west exit of JR Sobu Line Ryogoku Station. You will see Ryogoku Station Hirokoji directly ahead of you. After passing Ryogoku Station Hirokoji on your left, you will see the entrance to Ryogoku-Kokugikan on your right.

5 minutes walk from Ryogoku Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line

After leaving the A3 Exit of Ryogoku Station on the Oedo Line, go left along Kiyosumi-dori. Turn left just before Yamaoka Shoten. When you reach the T-junction where the APA Hotel is located, turn left. If you continue straight, you will come to Kokugikan-dori, so turn left and you will arrive at Ryogoku-Kokugikan.

The March OOZUMO Sumo Tournament is currently out of sale.

March Tournament Schedule

1st
3/8 (Sun)
2nd
3/9 (Mon)
3rd
3/10 (Tue)
Day 4
3/11 (Wed)
Day 5
3/12 (Thu)
Day 6
3/13 (Friday)
Day 7
3/14 (Sat)
Day 8
3/15 (Sun)
Day 9
3/16 (Mon)
Day 10
3/17 (Tue)
Day 11
3/18 (Wed)
Day 12
3/19 (Thu)
Day 13
3/20 (Fri)
Day 14
3/21 (Sat)
Final
3/22 (Sun)

access

map

Approximately 5 minutes walk from Exit 5 of Namba Station on all subway lines

Approximately 5 minutes walk from the south exit of Nankai Namba Station

The May OOZUMO Sumo Tournament is currently out of sale.

May Tournament Schedule

1st
5/10 (Sun)
2nd
5/11 (Mon)
3rd
5/12 (Tue)
Day 4
5/13 (Wed)
Day 5
5/14 (Thu)
Day 6
5/15 (Fri)
Day 7
5/16 (Sat)
Day 8
5/17 (Sun)
Day 9
5/18 (Mon)
Day 10
5/19 (Tue)
Day 11
5/20 (Wed)
Day 12
5/21 (Thu)
Day 13
5/22 (Fri)
Day 14
5/23 (Sat)
Final
5/24 (Sun)

access

map

2 minutes walk from the west exit of Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line

Turn right after leaving the west exit of JR Sobu Line Ryogoku Station. You will see Ryogoku Station Hirokoji directly ahead of you. After passing Ryogoku Station Hirokoji on your left, you will see the entrance to Ryogoku-Kokugikan on your right.

5 minutes walk from Ryogoku Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line

After leaving the A3 Exit of Ryogoku Station on the Oedo Line, go left along Kiyosumi-dori. Turn left just before Yamaoka Shoten. When you reach the T-junction where the APA Hotel is located, turn left. If you continue straight, you will come to Kokugikan-dori, so turn left and you will arrive at Ryogoku-Kokugikan.

The July OOZUMO Tournament is currently out of sale.

July Tournament Schedule

1st
7/12 (Sun)
2nd
7/13 (Mon)
3rd
7/14 (Tue)
Day 4
7/15 (Wed)
Day 5
7/16 (Thu)
Day 6
7/17 (Fri)
Day 7
7/18 (Sat)
Day 8
7/19 (Sun)
Day 9
7/20 (Mon)
Day 10
7/21 (Tue)
Day 11
7/22 (Wed)
Day 12
7/23 (Thu)
Day 13
7/24 (Fri)
Day 14
7/25 (Sat)
Final
7/26 (Sun)

access

map

About 1 minute walk from Meijo Park Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Meijo Line

The September OOZUMO Tournament is currently out of sale.

September Tournament Schedule

1st
9/13 (Sun)
2nd
9/14 (Mon)
3rd
9/15 (Tue)
Day 4
9/16 (Wed)
Day 5
9/17 (Thu)
Day 6
9/18 (Fri)
Day 7
9/19 (Sat)
Day 8
9/20 (Sun)
Day 9
9/21 (Mon)
Day 10
9/22 (Tue)
Day 11
9/23 (Wed)
Day 12
9/24 (Thu)
Day 13
9/25 (Fri)
Day 14
9/26 (Sat)
Final
9/27 (Sun)

access

map

2 minutes walk from the west exit of Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line

Turn right after leaving the west exit of JR Sobu Line Ryogoku Station. You will see Ryogoku Station Hirokoji directly ahead of you. After passing Ryogoku Station Hirokoji on your left, you will see the entrance to Ryogoku-Kokugikan on your right.

5 minutes walk from Ryogoku Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line

After leaving the A3 Exit of Ryogoku Station on the Oedo Line, go left along Kiyosumi-dori. Turn left just before Yamaoka Shoten. When you reach the T-junction where the APA Hotel is located, turn left. If you continue straight, you will come to Kokugikan-dori, so turn left and you will arrive at Ryogoku-Kokugikan.

Fukuoka International Center
OOZUMO
Fukuoka International Center

[Seat A] November Kyushu OOZUMO Tournament Ticket + Fun Sumo Goods

Chair A
Meet at the venue
Set date: [2025/11/13, 14, 16, 17]

[Included] Sumo viewing ticket, sumo goods

Price: per person
10,000 to 10,500 yen
詳細はこちら
Salt scattering before the match
Ring-entering
Yokozuna's ring-entering ceremony
Fukuoka International Center

[Seat B] November Kyushu OOZUMO Tournament Ticket + Fun Sumo Goods

Chair B
meet at the venue
Set date: [2025/11/18, 19, 20, 21]

[Included] Sumo viewing ticket, sumo goods

Price: per person
8,000 yen
詳細はこちら

November Tournament Schedule

1st
11/9 (Sun)
2nd
11/10 (Mon)
3rd
11/11 (Tue)
Day 4
11/12 (Wed)
Day 5
11/13 (Thu)
Day 6
11/14 (Fri)
Day 7
11/15 (Sat)
Day 8
11/16 (Sun)
Day 9
11/17 (Mon)
Day 10
11/18 (Tue)
Day 11
11/19 (Wed)
Day 12
11/20 (Thu)
Day 13
11/21 (Fri)
Day 14
11/22 (Sat)
Final
11/23 (Sun)

access

map

For those arriving by train

・About 12 minutes walk from the subway "Gofuku Station"

For those arriving by bus

・Hakata Station (Hakata Exit) → Hakata Station Nishi-Nippon City Bank Front F Platform (No. 99) Approx. 11 minutes → Get off in front of International Center Sun Palace, short walk
・Hakata Station (Hakata Exit) → Hakata Station Nishi-Nippon City Bank Front Platform F (No. 88 BRT) approx. 11 minutes → Get off in front of the International Conference Center Sun Palace, short walk

Knowing this will make sumo even more enjoyable
Basic knowledge of sumo

Basic knowledge of sumo

What is Sumo?

Sumo is a traditional Japanese martial art and sacred sport that originated in Shinto rituals.
In ancient times, it was held as a religious ceremony to pray for a bountiful harvest, and the outcome of the sumo wrestlers' matches was believed to represent the will of the gods.
Due to this religious background, ceremonial actions such as entering the ring and throwing salt are still considered important, and a solemn atmosphere permeates the atmosphere before and after competitions.
Culturally, sumo has been an integral part of Japanese life for over a thousand years.
It developed as a court event during the Heian period, as entertainment for the common people during the Edo period, and is now a beloved national sport.
The wrestlers' topknots, mawashi and movements are imbued with traditional beauty, and spectators respect the formality and etiquette.

The history of sumo

The origins of sumo, Japan's national sport, date back to the age of mythology, and it is said to have begun as a contest of strength.
After continuing as an imperial court event for around 300 years, including an annual festival ritual to predict the year's agricultural harvest, sumo began to be used as training for samurai during the Sengoku period.
Later, in the Edo period, sumo became more of a commercial sport, with the start of Kanjin Sumo tournaments, and the foundations of modern-day OOZUMO were laid.
Today, OOZUMO has been established as a sport and is loved by many people.
At the venue, you can experience sumo's long history and traditional culture up close.

What is a sumo wrestler?

Sumo wrestlers are professional competitors in the traditional Japanese martial art of sumo.
Its origins lie in ancient Shinto rituals, which were performed as a prayer for a bountiful harvest.
During the Heian period, it became a court event, and during the Edo period it developed as entertainment for the common people. Today's sumo wrestlers undergo rigorous training and are ranked according to a hierarchy.
Sumo wrestlers are not just athletes, but also bear the role of inheritors of etiquette and traditional culture.
Deep meanings are also embedded in the topknots, mawashi, and mannerisms.

When and where sumo is held

Sumo tournaments are held six times a year in odd-numbered months.
January is Tokyo, March is Osaka, May is Tokyo, July is Nagoya, September is Tokyo, and November is Fukuoka.
Generally, matches are held every day for 15 days, starting from the second Sunday to the fourth Sunday. Wrestlers ranked Juryo and above wrestle once a day for 15 consecutive days, while wrestlers ranked Makushita and below wrestle every other day for seven days.
The wrestler with the most wins out of 15 bouts will be the winner of that tournament.

Sumo wrestler ranks

Sumo wrestlers are ranked according to a hierarchy called "banzuke."
The highest rank is "Yokozuna," and only those who are recognized for their dignity and ability can be promoted.
Next come the ranks of "Ozeki," "Sekiwake," "Komusubi," and "Maegashira," and these are collectively called "Makuuchi wrestlers."
"Makuuchi wrestlers" are broadcast on television, so they become more well-known.
Below the Makuuchi rank is the Juryo rank, and the sumo ranks of Ozeki, Sekiwake, Komusubi, Maegashira, and Juryo are all combined to form the Sekitori rank.
Sekitori are paid a salary and compete every day for 15 days at each tournament.

Below the "Juryo" rank are the "Makushita," "Sandanme," "Jonidan," and "Jonokuchi" ranks, which are the ranks for young wrestlers and newcomers.
There is no salary, and each location will have 7 days of competition out of 15 days.

Wrestlers are promoted by having more wins than losses, and demoted by having more losses than wins.
The rankings are updated at each of the six tournaments held each year to reflect the results.

This ranking system requires wrestlers to not only demonstrate technique, but also consistent performance and mental strength, and they work hard to reach the top.

Sumo viewing points and highlights

Sumo rules

Sumo is a traditional Japanese martial art in which two wrestlers compete in a circular ring with a diameter of approximately 4.55 meters.
The rules are very simple: the one who pushes the opponent out of the ring or touches the ring with any part of their body other than the soles of their feet loses.
The match begins with a moment called "tachiai," when the wrestlers collide and exchange techniques.
Representative techniques include "push out," "yorikiri," and "uwade nage," and sumo wrestlers fight to make the most of their physique and special skills.
There are some actions that are prohibited, such as pulling hair, punching, or poking in the eyes, which are considered "forbidden moves" and will result in a foul.
Before the match, there is a staring contest called "shikiri," and the wrestlers perform a ritual that involves sprinkling salt to purify the ring.
These actions are imbued with sacred meaning, and sumo is not just a sport, but also has an aspect of traditional culture.
Even beginners can enjoy the techniques and tactics of the wrestlers by learning the rules.

Sumo techniques

Sumo's "techniques" are the movements and tactics that wrestlers use to win, and are one of the highlights of the match.
It's not just a simple push and shove match; there are over 80 different ways to win, and the appeal lies in the tactics of strength and skill.
For example, "oshidashi" is a technique in which you push your opponent straight out of the ring, while "nagewaza" is a technique in which you twist your opponent's body to knock them down.
"Tsuridashi" is a spectacular technique in which the opponent is lifted up and carried, and there are times when it overcomes differences in physical size.
A small sumo wrestler can defeat a larger opponent with quick movements, so not only physical strength but also explosive power and judgment are important.
Knowing the types of techniques and how to use them will give you a much deeper perspective on the match.

Ring-entering

The OOZUMO ring-entering ceremony is a traditional ritual that wrestlers perform on the ring before their bouts.
This is for sumo wrestlers (sekitori) ranked at or above Juryo, and is meant to show their faces to the audience and to show courtesy in a sacred venue.
The wrestlers, wearing gorgeous mawashi (sashes with decorative ornaments), enter the ring led by the referee.
They are divided into east and west groups and line up in a circle, clapping their hands and raising both hands.
It is also a symbol of peace, showing that we are "unarmed."
Only the yokozuna performs the special "yokozuna dohyo-iri" ceremony alone, stomping his feet and demonstrating his kata, accompanied by the tsuyuharai and tachimochi.
The dohyo-iri ceremony is a moment when you can sense the dignity and formality of the wrestlers, and is a ritual that symbolizes the sacredness and beauty of sumo.
Even first-time viewers will be able to appreciate the appeal of sumo on a deeper level by learning about the majestic appearance of the wrestlers and the meaning behind their actions.

Etiquette and rituals before a sumo match

SHIKO

"Shiko" is the movement in which a sumo wrestler raises one foot high in the air and then stomps down on the ring. It is a basic training method in sumo and also a sacred gesture.
It is meant to ward off evil spirits and also serves a ritualistic role in purifying the ring.
In addition to its practical benefits of developing muscle strength and flexibility, it is also important as a symbol of mental unity and good manners.
By performing shikomizu before a match, wrestlers prepare their minds and bodies, show respect for the ring, and prepare for the match.

CHIKARA MIZU

"Chikara Mizu" is water that sumo wrestlers use to rinse their mouths before a match, and is a sacred ritual that signifies purification.
This is a ritualistic act to purify the body and mind and ward off evil spirits, and is a tradition unique to sumo, which is influenced by Shinto.
The wrestler on the winning side receives the water; the loser does not have the right to receive it.
The series of actions from entering the ring to starting the match are deeply rooted not only in the competition but also in etiquette and spirituality.

SHIO WO MAKU

"Throwing salt" is the ritual in which sumo wrestlers sprinkle salt on the ring before the start of a match, purifying the ring and preventing injury.
This is based on the Shinto idea of purification, and by purifying the sacred ring, the wrestlers prepare both their bodies and minds for the match.
Sprinkling salt on the ground, where people are particularly prone to injury, also serves as a prayer for safety.
It is a symbolic gesture that heightens the tension before the match and is a moment that captures the attention of the audience.

CHIRI WO KIRU

"Chiri wo kiru" is a gesture that sumo wrestlers perform before the start of a match, in which they spread their arms out and then bring them back to their waists.
This signifies "not carrying a weapon" and originates from ancient etiquette.
It is a symbolic move that shows the wrestlers' determination to compete fairly, and it is also a moment of heightened tension for the spectators.
Every action on the ring has meaning, and "cutting the dust" is a ritualistic movement that evokes a particularly spiritual feeling.

FAQ

Q&A

  • Q. Can I eat or drink while watching OOZUMO?

    You can eat and drink at your seat. You cannot bring in bottles, cans, or food from outside, but the venue will be selling soft drinks such as tea and juice, as well as alcoholic beverages such as beer and chuhai.

  • Q. Is it okay to take videos or photos?

    Generally, photography is permitted, but flash photography is prohibited. Please be considerate and take care not to disturb other spectators.

  • Q. What is the etiquette when watching OOZUMO?

    Sumo matches often end in just a few seconds, so please do not move from your seat during the match, as people behind you may miss the moment of victory or defeat.
    Just before the match begins, watch the match quietly without making any noise.

  • Q. Are there any dress codes when watching OOZUMO?

    Dress code is optional and there are no particular regulations.
    Please avoid wearing large hats that may block the view of other spectators.