Sumo wrestling is more than just Japan’s national sport—it’s a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in Shinto rituals. Every movement within the ring carries cultural significance, making it a fascinating spectacle beyond sheer athleticism. This guide covers everything you need to know before attending a sumo match, from the annual tournament schedule to the rules and match flow. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or simply curious about sumo’s traditions, understanding its heritage and etiquette will enhance your experience. By learning about sumo’s unique blend of sport and spirituality, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this ancient art—turning a visit to a sumo tournament into a truly unforgettable cultural experience.
Annual Schedule of Grand Sumo Tournaments and Exhibition Tours
Grand Sumo Tournaments – Honbasho
Honbasho refers to the official sumo tournaments that directly impact a wrestler’s ranking. These tournaments are held six times a year, occurring in odd-numbered months at the following locations:
- January, May, September – Tokyo
- March – Osaka
- July – Nagoya
- November – Fukuoka
For the latest tournament schedule, please visit the Japan Sumo Association’s official website.
Sumo Exhibition Tours – Jungyo
Jungyo are special sumo events held four times a year, taking place in various regions across Japan during even-numbered months when official tournaments are not in session. These tours aim to bring the excitement of sumo to different parts of Japan while promoting regional engagement. Unlike official tournaments, jungyo allows fans to experience sumo up close, interact with wrestlers, and enjoy unique local festivities.
For detailed schedules, please check the Japan Sumo Association’s official website.
How to Buy Grand Sumo Tickets
General ticket sales for Grand Sumo tournaments begin approximately one month before the event. Tickets can be purchased through the following methods:
- Online: Ticket Oosumo & Ticket Pia
- By phone: Ticket Oosumo
- In-person: At the venue or convenience stores
If seats are still available, you can also buy tickets at the venue on the day of the event. However, to secure a good seat, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance.
Grand Sumo Tournament Venues in Japan
Grand Sumo tournaments are held six times a year at four dedicated venues in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Each arena is designed with the dohyō (sumo ring) at the center, surrounded by tamari-seki (ringside seats), masu-seki (box seats), and chair seating, ensuring that spectators can enjoy the intense sumo matches up close from any section.
Sumo Tournament Venues:
- Tokyo: Ryōgoku Kokugikan
- Osaka: Edion Arena Osaka
- Nagoya: IG Arena
- Fukuoka: Fukuoka Kokusai Center
Tokyo’s Ryōgoku Kokugikan, Osaka’s Edion Arena, and Nagoya’s IG Arena are conveniently located within a five-minute walk from the nearest station, making them easily accessible. While Fukuoka Kokusai Center is a bit farther, it is still within a 15-minute walk, offering good accessibility. Each venue provides a unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a Grand Sumo tournament and immerse yourself in the rich culture of sumo.
A Day at a Grand Sumo Tournament
Watching a Grand Sumo tournament is an all-day experience, offering non-stop excitement from morning to evening. Matches progress in intensity throughout the day, building up to the highly anticipated bouts of top-ranked wrestlers.
Daily Schedule of a Sumo Tournament
- 8:30 AM – The tournament begins with matches featuring young wrestlers from the lower divisions. The atmosphere gradually builds as the competition progresses.
- 2:45 PM – The jūryō division wrestlers, known as “sekitori,” make their ceremonial ring entrance, marking the start of the more intense matchups.
- 3:30 PM – A short intermission called “nakairi” allows spectators to take a break, enjoy a meal at the sumo teahouses, or browse souvenir shops for sumo-related merchandise.
- 3:55 PM – The makuuchi division wrestlers enter the ring, followed by the grand entrance of the yokozuna, creating a moment of heightened anticipation.
- 4:10 PM – The makuuchi division matches begin, featuring the top-ranked wrestlers in fierce and dramatic bouts.
- 6:00 PM – The day concludes with the “yumitori-shiki” (bow-twirling ceremony), a traditional finale that marks the end of an exhilarating day of sumo.
On the first day and final day of the tournament, special ceremonies add an extra layer of grandeur, such as the Championship Trophy Presentation and the “Kami-okuri” ritual, where the spirit of the tournament is symbolically sent off. Attending a sumo tournament is more than just watching a sport—it’s a deep dive into centuries-old traditions, cultural rituals, and the sheer intensity of sumo wrestling. Whether you stay for the full day or just the main events, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
Basic Rules and Etiquette for Sumo Matches
Basic Rules of Sumo
Sumo matches take place in a circular ring called the dohyō, and each bout begins with a powerful charge known as the tachi-ai. The goal is simple—defeat your opponent by meeting one of the following three conditions:
- Forcing your opponent out of the ring
- Making any part of your opponent’s body (other than the soles of their feet) touch the ground
- Winning by default if your opponent commits a foul
Only the palms and fingers may be used in a match. Kicking, grabbing the opponent’s topknot (mage), or other prohibited techniques are considered fouls (kinjite) and result in an automatic loss. A gyōji (referee) makes the initial call on the winner, but if there is any dispute, a system called “mono-ii” allows ringside judges and waiting wrestlers to challenge the decision. In such cases, judges review video footage and discuss the call in the ring, with the chief judge (shimpan-chō) making the final ruling. Sumo’s straightforward yet highly strategic rules, combined with the traditions surrounding the sport, make each match an exciting spectacle of strength, technique, and agility.
Etiquette for Watching Sumo Matches
Attending a Grand Sumo tournament comes with its own set of rules and etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all spectators. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:
- No outside food or drinks allowed
- Cheering loudly is prohibited (applause is allowed)
- Sit only in your assigned seat
- Do not move or relocate seat cushions
- Regulated exit procedures are in place
- No re-entry once you leave the venue
Loud cheering is not allowed to avoid disrupting the wrestlers’ concentration. The regulated exit system is enforced for safety, with spectators being directed to leave in an orderly manner, starting from the first floor. By following these simple rules, you can fully immerse yourself in the tradition and atmosphere of sumo while respecting the customs of this centuries-old sport. Enjoy the experience!
Summary
This article has introduced the sumo season, rules, and spectator etiquette to help you make the most of your sumo experience. Grand Sumo tournaments take place six times a year in odd-numbered months, forming the core of the sumo season. In addition to these official tournaments, you can also experience sumo culture through regional exhibition tours (jungyo), sumo training sessions at sumo stables, and special sumo shows. Whether you attend a tournament, an exhibition event, or a sumo training session, experiencing sumo firsthand is a unique way to connect with Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Take the opportunity to witness this centuries-old tradition up close and create unforgettable memories during your visit!
