Sumo training observation and Chanko lunch at Sumo stable【008】
| Experience | Packaged Services |
| 🏴 Viewing the Sumo wrestlers’ training with live commentary by a former wrestler 🏴 Photo session with the wrestlers 🏴 Traditional sumo hot pot, Chanko lunch with the wrestlers | 🏴 Private car transportation ; Approx. 30 minutes from the central Tokyo for one way 🏴 Private English-speaking guide |
| Optional Tours |
| 🏴 Visit Sumo Museum inside Rogoku Kokugikan, and some Sumo-related spots |
| Conditions |
| Duration : 3 hours (additional 3 hours for optional tours) Capacity : Up to 20 persons (an option of exclusive visit) Eligibility : Application required at least 3 days prior, subject to availability. Notes : Keep quiet during viewing the training. |
History
Sumo traces its origins back to contests of strength described in ancient Japanese mythology and also has a history as a ritual to celebrate agricultural harvests. Even today, sumo retains a strong religious character, and the dohyo (sumo ring) where matches take place is regarded as a sacred space.
Over time, sumo came to be practiced as a form of training for samurai and was frequently performed for feudal lords during the Warring States period. In the Edo period, professional sumo wrestlers emerged and regular tournaments were established, allowing sumo to spread as a major form of popular entertainment among the general public.
It was during this era that the traditions and styles passed down to the present day were formalized. Elements such as the ring-entering ceremony, ranking charts, decorative aprons, topknots, and traditional attire remain largely unchanged and can still be seen today.
Features
Takekuma Stable was established in 2022 in Ota Ward, Tokyo, by former Ozeki Goeido. Ozeki is the second-highest rank in professional sumo, and among roughly 600 active wrestlers, only a select few attain this status. Goeido held the rank of Ozeki for six years and achieved a championship victory at official tournaments.
Observing training at Takekuma Stable offers a rare opportunity to witness authentic sumo wrestlers engaged in serious, disciplined practice. Unlike staged entertainment shows, this experience allows guests to feel the raw power and intensity of sumo at close range. There are only about 40 top-division (Makuuchi) wrestlers, whose average weight is approximately 160 kilograms, and whose powerful charges can generate an impact force of up to one ton.
This tour is further enhanced by insightful commentary provided by a former Makuuchi wrestler, offering expert explanations of the training techniques and rituals, making the experience both immersive and educational.
After the training observation, guests may enjoy taking photos with the wrestlers. The experience concludes with the opportunity to share a traditional meal of chanko-nabe, the hearty hot pot that is an integral part of sumo stable life, enjoyed together with the wrestlers—providing a truly unforgettable sumo stable experience.
Time Schedule
Regular Tour
Start Time：From 10:00 am
Time Table：
| 2:00 | Viewing the Sumo wrestlers’ training from up-close area to dohyo (sumo ring). A former sumo wrestler offers live, in-depth explanations of the training. |
| 0:10 | Photo and chat session with the wrestlers. |
| 0:50 | Having a lunch of traditional sumo-style hot pot, Chanko with the wrestlers. |
Optional Tours
Time Table：
| 1:00 | Move to Ryogoku area. |
| 0:30 | Visit Sumo Museum to see historical Sumo items |
| 1:30 | Visit Sumo Photo Museum, Sumo goods shop and Sumo sweets shop in Ryogoku area. |
MAP
Detailed Provisions
[Operating Conditions]
| ・Minimum number of participants: 1 person |
| ・Maximum number of participants: 20 persons (subject to availability) |
| ・Age requirement: No age restriction |
| ・Language support: Necessary for a licensed interpreter-guide |
| ・Operating period: Available outside official tournament and regional tour periods |
[Participation Requirements | Important Notes]
| ・Keep quiet during the observation of the training. |
| ・Dress code: Overly casual or revealing attire is not permitted |
| ・What to bring: None |
| ・Safety precautions: None in particular |
| ・Booking deadline: A few days prior to the tour date |
| ・Cancellation (including changes) policy: From 21 days prior – 20%; From 8 days prior – 50%; From 3 days prior – 100% |
| ・Severe weather policy: Tour will generally proceed (indoor event) |
| ・Disclaimer: The tour content may be changed or canceled due to operational or safety reasons. The organizer is not responsible for injuries or accidents caused by the participant’s own negligence. |
| ・Photography / Video recording: Restrictions apply |
| ・Liability waiver form: Not required |
[Booking Process]
| 1) Inquiry from the customer. |
| 2) Proposal and quotation provided within two business days. |
| 3) Reservation arrangements commence upon guest’s application. (The cancellation policy becomes effective at this stage.) |
| 4) Booking confirmation notice. (If the reservation cannot be secured, the cancellation policy will not apply.) |
| 5) Payment is required within 48 hours after booking confirmation notice. |
