Deep Sumo Experience near Tokyo: Enter the Sanctuary (Kawasaki)
Overview
Immerse fully in the world of sumo, with an authentic sumo stable visit in Kawasaki, just outside Tokyo. Follow your guide to a hidden sumo stable to experience a live training session, learn sumo secrets, and even participate in a match. Then, enjoy making and eating traditional chanko-nabe with the wrestlers, and eat in the stable with them!
10 minutes from Yokohama Station, 20 from Tokyo Station, 30 from Shinjuku Station!
Highlights
- See and experience the actual training in a genuine sumo stable for yourself
- Your guide explains the history and traditions of sumo with many tips for enjoying sumo matches
- Try a practice match (optional) with a wrestler — men women, and kids can all challenge them!
- Make dumplings for chanko-nabe, a dish that builds the sumo body, and eat with the wrestlers!
- Reserve with a Rakuten account to earn or use points for each booking
Key Information
Important Information
- Please arrive early at the meeting point; the tour will depart on time and latecomers will not be refunded due to missing the tour
- Vegan/vegetarian options are available, please tell us your preference during checkout
- Please note that we are unable to guarantee allergy-free or cater to all dietary restrictions as the food is not prepared by the tour operator
- This tour is not wheelchair/stroller accessible
- The shirts are available in sizes 100 cm, 150 cm, S, M, L, 2L, and 3L
- Ages 0–3 can join for free, but meals are not provided
Booking (4 steps)
Duration
Included
- 4-hour tour with English-speaking guide
- Sumo experience: practice the training yourself
- Sumo lunch: chanko nabe hot pot, a meal for sumo wrestlers
- Original “Enter the Sanctuary” t-shirt
- Photos taken during the tour by your guide (sent by email after)
Not Included
- Hotel pickup
- Additional food and drink orders
Meeting Point
Meet at Shin-Kawasaki Station gate (There is only one gate.). (map)
Venue Address
Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Schedule
Tours are offered at 9:30 on Tue, Thu, and Sat, and last about 4 hours
- Meet near Shin-Kawasaki Station
- Tour of Kawasaki-beya
- Train with the wrestlers
- Play match with a wrestler
- Chank-nabe lunch
- Return to Shin-Kawasaki Station
Provided by
MagicalTrip / マジカルトリップ
Description
Step into the heart of Japan's traditional sumo culture with the authentic "Enter the Sanctuary" experience on the outskirts of Tokyo.
Your journey begins at Shin-Kawasaki Station, where you'll meet your guide and travel to a real sumo stable that was active until 2022. As you explore the stable, your guide will unveil the intricate lifestyle and customs of sumo wrestlers, giving you a deeper understanding of this ancient sport.
At the stable, you'll have the unique opportunity to observe a live sumo training session. Watch as the rikishi (wrestlers) go through their rigorous morning routines, and discover the detailed techniques and movements that have been passed down since the days of the samurai. For those feeling adventurous, there's an option to step into the ring and try out some of these traditional moves firsthand.
The excitement peaks when you're given the chance to participate in a real sumo match. Feel the intensity and power of the wrestlers as you face off in the ring, a truly unforgettable experience. After the match, join the wrestlers in preparing and savoring chanko-nabe, a beloved dish known for nourishing sumo wrestlers, building their incredible bodies. This communal meal not only lets you taste the flavors of sumo but also share stories and ask questions directly to the rikishi.
This tour isn't just a passive experience; it's an interactive and deep dive into the world of sumo.
Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Tokyo Station and 30 minutes from Shinjuku Station, it offers an active, engaging, and educational sightseeing option for Tokyo visitors.
Whether you're a sumo novice or enthusiast, this experience promises rich cultural insights and fun-filled memories. Plus, you’ll take home an exclusive “Enter the Sanctuary” t-shirt as a souvenir of your unique adventure. Join us for an authentic glimpse into the life of a sumo wrestler and the rich heritage of this fascinating sport.
