How to enjoy an authentic sumo match at Kokugikan

-Basic information about watching sumo matches and how to purchase tickets

Watching sumo is a wonderful way to experience traditional Japanese culture. Sumo is a sport in which wrestlers compete against each other in the ring, with unique rules and rituals. When watching a sumo match, it is best to know some basic information about the sport in order to enjoy it more.

First, sumo matches are usually held in tournaments called hon-sho, which last 15 days. It is held six times a year and is held in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and other cities. Each location offers a different seasonal and regional atmosphere, so it is a good idea to choose the time and place that suits you best to watch the matches.

Regarding how to purchase tickets, you can purchase tickets from the official website or ticket sales website for each convention. Some travel agencies may also sell tickets, so please check with them. Popular dates and seat types may sell out early, so we recommend that you plan ahead and make your reservations in advance.

There are several types of seats. For the closest and most powerful view of the game, the "sand-covered seats" are the best, but they are also the most expensive. Chair seats" are relatively inexpensive and are used by many people. Masu-seat" is a traditional style of seating and is suitable for small groups.

On the day of the event, get to the venue early. By entering the venue from the time it opens, you can enjoy the souvenir stores and restaurants at your leisure. There are also various events taking place during the tournament, so be sure not to miss any of them.

Finally, as a reminder, loud cheering is prohibited, so please behave with good manners and watch the games quietly. Also, please be aware that flash photography is prohibited.

The above is basic information about watching sumo and how to purchase tickets. We hope you will take this opportunity to experience sumo for yourself, which has a long history as a part of Japanese culture.

-Access to the Kokugikan and the surrounding facilities

Access to the Kokugikan is very convenient. Located in Ryogoku, in the heart of Tokyo, it is easily accessible by many forms of public transportation. The nearest station is Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line, which is about a 2-minute walk from the station. Ryogoku Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line is also accessible in about 5 minutes on foot. Using these means of transportation, you will be able to visit us smoothly from all parts of Tokyo.

It is a great place to enjoy sightseeing and dining, with a wide range of facilities in the surrounding area. First of all, Ryogoku is famous for sumo wrestling, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum is a popular place to learn about Japanese culture and history. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also holds a variety of special exhibitions, allowing visitors to learn more about Japanese traditions and history.

The Sumida Hokusai Museum is also nearby, where visitors can enjoy the works of Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan's most famous ukiyoe artists. By learning more about his life and works, visitors can deepen their understanding of Japanese art.

There are also many restaurants. In particular, you can enjoy authentic chanko-nabe at a restaurant directly operated by a sumo stable. Chanko-nabe is nutritious and hearty, so it is worth a try. Other restaurants offer not only Japanese food, but also a variety of other genres, so you can have fun choosing the one that best suits your taste.

In addition, walking paths are maintained along the Sumida River, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. This area is known for its rows of cherry blossom trees in spring, attracting many people to view the cherry blossoms.

As you can see, the Kokugikan area offers a wide variety of tourist attractions, cultural facilities, and delicious dining options, making it an area where you can enjoy yourself all day long. We invite you to visit and experience the charm of the area for yourself.

-Tips for enjoying the efforts of rikishi more

In order to enjoy the efforts of the rikishi more, it is important to keep a few points in mind. First, paying attention to the personalities and techniques of each rikishi will make watching sumo more enjoyable. For example, each rikishi has different specialties and approaches, so it is a good idea to study them beforehand. Some rikishi specialize in pushing and shoving, while others use throwing techniques. Understanding each style will make each moment of attack and defense more thrilling.

Second, it is also important to learn about the history and culture of sumo. Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport with a history that spans centuries. There are many highlights of sumo besides the matches, such as the ring-entering ceremony and the role of the gyoji. By deepening your knowledge of these things, you will gain an even deeper understanding and appreciation of the sport.

Also, if you have the opportunity to actually watch the games at the venue, please enjoy the realism of the event to the fullest. The power that cannot be conveyed on TV and the sense of unity with the audience around you is wonderful. It is also a good idea to experience the unique atmosphere and cheering style of the venue.

Furthermore, we recommend that you find your favorite rikishi and support them. Each rikishi has a unique character, so try to find your own favorite. By watching the growth and success of that rikishi, you will feel even closer to him.

Last but not least, sumo can be enjoyed not only at the main tournament held every year, but also at many regional tournaments. At these events, you can see the players in a different and more relaxed atmosphere than usual, and you may discover something new and fascinating.

With these points in mind, we hope you will enjoy the sporting entertainment that is sumo to the fullest. Each of them has its own unique charm, so finding your own favorite point of interest and watching the matches will make your time even more fulfilling.

-Manners and precautions when watching sumo wrestling

Watching sumo matches is a rare opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture. By observing a few manners and precautions when watching a match, you can enjoy it even more.

First, be quiet when entering the venue. Respect the players' concentration, especially during their efforts, and avoid talking loudly or making noise. Also, be careful not to disturb others with the sound of your cell phone or camera shutter. Be aware that in most cases flash photography is prohibited.

There is also etiquette regarding seating. In the square seats, take off your shoes and watch the games in the space designated for you. Since you will be sharing the space with other spectators, be mindful that your belongings do not get in the way of others. Similarly, in the case of chair seating, be mindful not to leave your own area.

Also, be careful when eating and drinking. Food and beverages are sold on site, but please be sure to dispose of your garbage in the designated areas. This is important as a consideration for other customers and cleaning staff.

Regarding cheering, you are welcome to support the players with loud cheering and applause. However, please refrain from excessive cheering or disturbing other patrons. Even if your favorite rikishi loses, it is important to be prepared to accept the result and look forward to the next tournament.

Finally, be mindful of safety. Try not to run inside the venue and move slowly without pushing each other in the crowd. Be prepared to respond calmly to unforeseen situations.

By keeping these points in mind while enjoying a sumo match, you will build a good relationship not only with yourself but also with the people around you, and you will have a wonderful time deepening your understanding of Japanese culture. I hope you will enjoy watching sumo together with as many people as possible.

-Restaurants and souvenir stores to enjoy inside the Kokugikan

Although the Kokugikan is known as a sacred place for sumo, there are many restaurants and souvenir stores inside the hall that can be enjoyed in addition to watching sumo matches. First of all, the restaurants in the Kokugikan offer a variety of dishes that are perfect for accompanying a sumo match. Especially popular is the chanko-nabe. Chanko-nabe is famous as an everyday meal for sumo wrestlers and is loved by many for its volume and nutritional value. At Kokugikan, visitors can enjoy authentic chanko-nabe easily and to their satisfaction.

There is also a wide selection of boxed lunches and snacks, including "yakitori" and "sushi," which offer a uniquely Japanese taste. Since they can be easily purchased even during the game, you can enjoy delicious food without getting up from your seat.

In addition, the souvenir shops are not to be missed. There is a store inside the Kokugikan that sells a variety of sumo related products. The shop offers a wide variety of products, from traditional items such as tenugui hand towels and yunomi cups to more modern souvenirs such as rikishi figurines and clear files. There are also a number of limited-edition goods available only here, so be sure to check it out when you visit.

And when you are tired of picking out souvenirs, how about taking a break with "green tea soft serve ice cream"? The rich matcha flavor is one that will remind you of Japanese culture.

Thus, inside the Kokugikan, visitors can enjoy delicious food and an attractive selection of souvenirs while getting in touch with Japanese culture. Why not visit the Kokugikan once, as it is loved by many people not only for watching sumo matches, but also as a place where you can enjoy yourself all day long?

Sumo - Even for beginners! Sumo Terms and Basic Rules Explained

Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport, which may seem a bit difficult for first-time spectators. However, if you understand the basic terms and rules, you can enjoy sumo more. Here we explain basic sumo terminology and rules so that even beginners can enjoy sumo with ease.

First is the "dohyo," or ring. The dohyo is a circular stage on which matches are played, with a diameter of approximately 4.55 meters. A fighter loses if he steps out of the ring or falls to his hands or knees. The word "rikishi" is also often heard. A rikishi is a sumo wrestler, and the strongest of them is called yokozuna.

At the beginning of the match, there is a "tachiai," a moment when both rikishi face each other in the center of the ring and collide with each other. This is the moment when both rikishi face each other in the center of the ring and collide at once. The timing and momentum of the tachiai is very important, as it greatly determines the outcome of the match. Also important is the mawashi, or cloth belt. Many techniques are developed here, as grabbing the mawashi gives the fighter an advantage in the match.

Let's talk a little about techniques. There are two types of techniques: oshidashi and yorikiri. Oshidashi" is a technique that pushes the opponent out of the ring from the front, while "yorikiri" is a technique that forces the opponent out of the ring by sticking close to him with the entire body. There are many other techniques as well, so pay attention to them while watching the matches.

Finally, the rules are very simple. As I mentioned earlier, the winner loses if he or she leaves the ring or if any part of his or her body touches the ground. But be aware that there are also "forbidden moves," or foul acts.

These are the basic terms and rules of sumo. If you watch sumo matches with this knowledge, you will be able to enjoy them more deeply. We hope you will make use of this information the next time you watch sumo!