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JPY (¥)Sumo wrestling is one of the most popular sports in Japan, a staple of Japanese society and culture. When traveling to Japan, it’s highly worthwhile making the effort to attend one of the six annual Grand Sumo Tournaments. If you’re hoping to experience sumo wrestling during your trip, this guide will help you navigate through the process including this year’s Sumo Tournament Calendar and ticket guidance.
Grand Sumo Tournament Schedule 2025
| Tournament | Location | Date | Ticket Release Date |
| The January Tournament | Kokugikan Arena, Tokyo | January 12 – January 26 | December 7, 2024 |
| The March Tournament | EDION Arena, Osaka | March 9 – March 23 | February 8, 2025 |
| The May Tournament | Kokugikan Arena, Tokyo | May 11 – May 25 | April 5, 2025 |
| The July Tournament | Aichi International Arena, Nagoya | July 13 – July 27 | May 17, 2025 |
| The September Tournament | Kokugikan Arena, Tokyo | September 14 – September 28 | August 9, 2025 |
| The November Tournament | Fukuoka Kokusai Center | November 9 – November 23 | September 20, 2025 |
How to Buy Tickets for a Sumo Tournament
Once you’ve checked the Sumo Tournament Calendar above and know which tournament you would like to attend, you’ll need to decide which type of ticket you want to purchase. There are two types of tickets:
- Masu-Seki (Box Seats): Guests sit on the floor in traditional Japanese-style boxes (fits 4 people). Prices range from ¥34,000 – ¥42,000 based on box position and day of the week.
- Arena Seats (Chair Seats): The classic-style seats in sports stadiums worldwide. Prices range from ¥3,500 – ¥5,500 based on box position and day of the week.
Check this seat map of the Kokugikan Arena to understand the various seat options.
Placing the Order: You can purchase tickets at the online sumo ticketing store.
Include a Sumo Tour in Your Japan Tour Package With Tourist Japan!
Undoubtedly, the best way to experience a sumo tournament is with a Sumo Tournament Tour. Don’t just sit back and watch the fight, take it a step further and enjoy a guided explanation and translation from an expert guide. Plus, your entry ticket will also be included in the tour price, so you don’t need to deal with purchasing the ticket on your own! Alternatively, if your schedule doesn’t align with one of the tournaments, observing a sumo practice tour in a sumo stable is an equally memorable experience. You’ll get up and close to the wrestlers as they practice their skills and learn about the history and tradition of the sport.
These incredible sumo tournament tours are included in our 8 Day Cultural Japan Tour Package, 10 Day Cultural Japan Tour Package, 18 Day and 21 Day Cultural Japan Tour Package. These itineraries, filled with authentic Japanese experiences, ensure you experience Japan like a true local.
They can also be included (availability dependent) in your itinerary when booking a custom Japan tour package with us. Design a multi-day/multi-city itinerary around Japan, tailored to your particular interests and the cities and places you want to visit. Our team of Japan travel experts is committed to working with almost any budget to ensure you embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
