Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour and Photo With Sumo Wrestlers

Sumo, Japan’s national sport, captivates viewers worldwide with its centuries-old traditions and powerful displays of athleticism. For those seeking an immersive experience, the Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour at Tatsunami-beya stable in Tokyo offers a rare opportunity to witness the intense training of these iconic wrestlers, including an active Yokozuna. Led by a licensed English guide, this tour provides unique insights into the discipline and cultural significance of sumo. But the true highlight might just be the chance to capture a memorable photo with the wrestlers themselves.

Key Points

• Opportunity to witness sumo wrestlers’ morning practice at the Tatsunami-beya sumo stable in Tokyo, guided by a licensed English-speaking guide.
• Includes a commemorative photo session with the wrestlers after the practice.
• Tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 8:30 AM, with a maximum of 25 participants.
• Participants gain insights into the rigorous training and discipline of sumo wrestlers.
• Tour includes an audio guide service and original merchandise from JTB Sunrise Tours.

Overview of the Tour

Visitors are given a rare opportunity to witness sumo wrestlers train during morning practice at the traditional Tatsunami-beya sumo stable in Tokyo, Japan.

This guided tour provides an insider’s look into the ancient sport of sumo. The stable is unique as it hosts an active Yokozuna, the highest rank in professional sumo.

Participants can take commemorative photos with the wrestlers after practice. Led by a licensed English guide, the tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to gain insights into the rigorous training and discipline of these elite athletes.

Tour Details and Inclusions

The guided tour takes place at the Tatsunami-beya Sumo Stable, located in Taito City, Tokyo.

It starts at 8:30 AM and is led by a national government-licensed English guide interpreter. Participants can witness sumo wrestlers training during their morning practice, gaining insight into this ancient sport.

The tour includes an audio guide service, a commemorative photo with the wrestlers, and JTB Sunrise Tours’ original merchandise.

Priced at $96.89 per person, the tour has a maximum of 25 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Meeting Point and Access

The meeting point for the Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour is in front of the Tatsunami Stable entrance. Participants should look for a guide wearing a blue Happi jacket with the Sunrise Tours logo. The stable is approximately a 20-minute walk from Asakusa Station and accessible via public transport, including Toei Bus East 42-Ko and Taito Ward Kita-Megurin loop bus.

Transportation	Time	Distance
Walk	20 minutes	–
Toei Bus East 42-Ko	–	–
Taito Ward Kita-Megurin loop bus	–	–

Asakusa Station serves as the closest public transit hub to the Tatsunami Stable.

Important Guidelines and Restrictions

Silence is required during the sumo practice viewing, and talking or whispering is strictly prohibited.

Participants mustn’t stand or move around during the practice. They’re not allowed to touch the wrestlers or the ring without permission.

Avoiding showing the soles of feet, wearing excessive perfume, or bringing food and drinks is a must.

Mobile phones must be silent, and flash photography and video recording aren’t permitted.

Removing shoes and keeping them neatly in place is mandatory inside the stable.

Children aged 0-3 aren’t allowed, and parental permission is needed for participants under 18.

Experiencing Sumo Practice

Once participants have familiarized themselves with the guidelines and restrictions, they’ll get to experience the heart of the tour – witnessing the sumo wrestlers in action during their morning practice session.

Stepping inside the hallowed training hall, visitors observe the wrestlers engage in intense training, perfecting their techniques and honing their strength. The rhythmic sounds of their movement, the slapping of skin, and the occasional grunts fill the air, transporting observers into the captivating world of this ancient Japanese sport.

After practice, participants can take commemorative photos with the wrestlers, a cherished memento of their sumo experience.

Commemorative Photos With Wrestlers

After witnessing the captivating sumo practice, participants eagerly await the chance to take commemorative photos with the wrestlers.

This exclusive opportunity allows visitors to pose alongside the mighty athletes, capturing a memento of their unique cultural experience.

The guides facilitate the photo session, ensuring everyone gets a chance to be photographed with the sumo wrestlers.

Participants can proudly display these pictures, sharing their once-in-a-lifetime encounter with family and friends.

The commemorative photos serve as tangible reminders of the immersive tour, preserving the memories of this extraordinary sumo stable visit.

Exploring the Sumo Stable

During the sumo practice viewing, visitors are invited to explore the hallowed grounds of the Tatsunami-beya sumo stable.

This historic stable, home to an active Yokozuna, the highest rank in professional sumo, offers a rare glimpse into the sacred traditions of the sport.

Participants must adhere to strict guidelines, including maintaining silence, removing shoes, and avoiding any physical contact with the wrestlers.

Guests can observe the wrestlers’ intense training regimen, witnessing the discipline and dedication that defines this ancient Japanese art.

The stable’s serene atmosphere and the opportunity to witness sumo in its purest form make this experience truly unique.

Preparing for the Sumo Practice Viewing

Guideline	Rationale	Importance
Silence	To avoid distractions	High
No touching	Respect wrestlers’ space	High
No food/perfume	Maintain cleanliness	Medium
No photos/videos	Preserve sanctity	High
Remove shoes/hats	Show respect	Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear to the Sumo Practice Tour?

The recommended attire for the sumo practice tour is casual and comfortable. Participants should avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing, and they should remove their shoes and hats before entering the stable as a sign of respect.

Can I Bring My Own Camera to Take Photos?

No, participants can’t bring their own cameras to the sumo practice tour. The rules prohibit flash photography and video recording to avoid distractions and ensure the safety and sanctity of the training hall.

How Long Does the Sumo Practice Session Last?

The sumo practice session typically lasts 1-2 hours. Participants are expected to observe silently and refrain from moving around or taking photos during the practice to avoid disrupting the wrestlers’ training.

Is There an Opportunity to Meet the Yokozuna?

The tour may provide an opportunity to see the yokozuna, the highest-ranked sumo wrestler, though their appearance isn’t guaranteed at every practice session. Participants are advised to follow the guidelines to avoid distractions and ensure safety during the sacred training session.

Can I Interact With the Sumo Wrestlers During the Tour?

Participants are not allowed to interact directly with the sumo wrestlers during the tour. The guidelines emphasize maintaining silence and not touching or moving around the wrestlers without permission to avoid disrupting their practice session.

The Sum Up

The Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour offers a unique chance to witness the intense training of Japan’s top sumo wrestlers. Visitors will gain insights into the discipline of this ancient sport and have the opportunity to capture memorable photos with the wrestlers. This intimate experience, limited to just 25 participants, provides an unforgettable window into the fascinating world of sumo.