Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a sumo wrestler? Get ready to step into the ring and experience the ancient art of sumo wrestling like never before at the Sumo Experience Tokyo! This immersive experience offers a deep dive into the behind-the-scenes stories and daily lives of sumo wrestlers – all while enjoying a delicious serving of “Chanko Nabe”, the traditional hotpot soup that sumo wrestlers feast on.
But that’s not all – the Sumo Experience Tokyo is an interactive adventure that puts you in the heart of the action. You’ll learn all about the history and culture of sumo wrestling, try on a sumo wrestler’s costume, and even go head to head in a match with professional sumo wrestlers. And the best part? All ages are welcome to join in on the fun. Read on as we discover Japan’s national sport with The Sumo Experience Tokyo.
Behind the Ring – Sumo Wrestling in Japan
The sacred sport of Sumo wrestling has a long and rich history in Japan, dating back over 1,500 years. It originated in ancient times as a performance to entertain the Shinto deities. Powerful men displayed their strength in front of gods or spirits as a sign of respect and gratitude to bring in a good harvest.
Over time, sumo evolved into a competitive sport, with professional sumo wrestlers first appearing in the 1600s. Since then, sumo has become one of Japan’s most popular sports, with six major tournaments held throughout the year and a devoted fan base. Today, sumo is considered a national treasure in Japan and continues to captivate audiences around the world.
The Sumo Experience – Eat like a Sumo Wrestler
At the Sumo Experience you will have the option to have a meal during the performance, called CHANKO-NABE, which means hotpot cooking. This Japanese-style hotpot is a typical meal for a Sumo Wrestler, as it is said to give a lot of stamina. It is made up of different meats, rice and vegetables. CHANKO-NABE is actually low in fat and a healthy and nutritionally balanced diet. So how do Sumo wrestlers get so big? The wrestlers eat HUGE quantities of food and train hard every day to reach their required size and strength.
At the Sumo Experience the CHANKO-NABE is prepared by the wrestlers themselves! The experience also includes a pork cutlet plate, ice cream, tea and water. Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks are also available.
The Sumo Experience – Rituals and Technique Demonstrations
They are giants of Japan, and celebrities. But what does it take to be a champion? At the Sumo Experience, you’ll learn from two former professional sumo wrestlers who will teach you about this fascinating sport. You’ll learn about the various ranks of sumo wrestlers, their rigorous training regime, their (crazy!) diet, and pre-match traditions that make this sport so unique. You’ll see the wrestlers step into the ring and perform a demonstration of a variety of techniques and strategies to try to best beat their opponents, all while engaging in rituals like stamping their feet and the ritual of throwing salt for purification. It’s a spectacle and such a unique experience to watch.
The presentation is fun and engaging, and they even show you a few prohibited techniques (such as poking the eyeballs and kicking) in a playful way. You’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for the strength, discipline, and dedication that goes into the sport of sumo wrestling. It’s a fascinating look at the sport and so fun for all ages.
The Sumo Experience – Stepping into the Ring
Are you ready to step into the ring and go toe-to-toe with REAL sumo wrestlers? The Sumo Experience offers guests of all ages the chance to dress up in a sumo costume and try their hand at this ancient Japanese sport. The wrestlers will guide you through the basic techniques, such as the shiko (stomp) and the tsuppari (slap). And when it’s time to put your skills to the test, you’ll face off against the wrestlers themselves in an unforgettable sumo match. But the fun doesn’t stop there – the friendly staff will help you capture the moment with a souvenir photo, preserving this one-of-a-kind memory forever. It’s such a fun and engaging activity and it had the entire crowd cheering and laughing.
The Sumo Experience is a great activity for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants to try something new and exciting. Plus, you’ll get to take some memorable photos in a sumo wrestler’s costume! A must do while in Tokyo.
Tips for your visit:
- Experience lasts about 2 hours
- All ages allowed!
- The presentation is in english
- Everyone who wants to step in the ring will get the chance! No age requirement
- End of program at 3PM (You may leave the restaurant any time before 3pm.)
- Vegetarian meals can be accommodated with advance notice
The Sumo Expereine Tokyo
LOCATION: 3-1-11 Tatekawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo, Japan ‘Yokozuna Tonkatsu Dosukoi Tanaka
More information and to book a tour HERE
