Tokyo: Sumo Show with Lunch & Meet Retired Wrestlers

Summary

Sumo up close in tokyo with lunch and real wrestler stories

You’ll sit ringside in Tokyo as retired sumo wrestlers share their world—explaining rituals, sparring live, and inviting you to step into the ring yourself (if you’re brave). Enjoy tonkatsu and chanko nabe cooked by the wrestlers themselves before snapping a souvenir photo. It’s lively, welcoming, and surprisingly funny—something you’ll remember long after lunch is over.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the floor—the sumo ring set right there in the middle of a restaurant, not some big arena. It smelled faintly of broth and wood polish. Our guide, Yuto, grinned as he waved us over. He introduced two retired sumo wrestlers (one still had that topknot), and I’ll admit, I felt tiny just standing near them. There was a low hum of chatter from other tables—mostly Japanese families, plus a couple from France who kept whispering “incroyable” every time someone hit the mat.

They started with these slow, ritual movements—stomping, clapping—and Yuto explained what each meant. I didn’t expect to laugh so much; one wrestler joked about his old training diet (“chanko nabe for breakfast, lunch, dinner… and snacks”). The tonkatsu came out crispy and hot, with that sweet-salty sauce you only get right in Japan. And then the chanko nabe—hearty but somehow light? Maybe it’s just better when you know who cooked it. I tried to say thank you in Japanese and totally butchered it; everyone laughed, including me.

And then they asked for volunteers to try sumo. My friend nudged me forward (traitor). They wrapped me up in this padded suit—I could barely move my arms—and suddenly I’m facing off against a guy twice my size but grinning like we’re old friends. The whole place cheered when I managed to stay on my feet for three seconds. There’s a souvenir photo somewhere on my phone—I look ridiculous but happy. Honestly, I still think about how warm everyone was; even if you know nothing about sumo, you feel pulled into their world for that hour and a half.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sumo show and dinner experience

• Arrive at sumo show venue
• Learn sumo history and etiquette
• Watch explanation of sumo actions
• See introduction of sumo techniques
• Watch three sparring matches
• Try sumo wrestling with retired wrestlers
• Wear costume provided for sumo tryout
• Enjoy Tonkatsu and Chanko Nabe meal
• Take souvenir photo with wrestlers

Top questions

How long does the Sumo Show experience last?

The Sumo Show lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Is lunch included in the Sumo Show in Tokyo?

Yes, lunch is included—tonkatsu and chanko nabe are served.

Can vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions join?

Yes, vegetarian options or pork substitutes are available if requested at booking (at least 5 days ahead).

Do I get to meet real sumo wrestlers?

Yes, you'll meet and interact with retired competitive sumo wrestlers during the show.

Is there an option to try wrestling with the sumo wrestlers?

Yes, guests can try wrestling with retired sumo wrestlers using provided costumes.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Are children allowed at the Sumo Show?

Yes, children are welcome but infants must sit on an adult’s lap; infant meals aren’t included.

Where does the Sumo Show take place?

The experience takes place inside a restaurant in Tokyo equipped with a real sumo ring.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to a Tokyo restaurant with its own sumo ring where you'll watch live demonstrations by retired wrestlers, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch of tonkatsu and chanko nabe (with vegetarian or pork-free options if needed), have chances to interact and even spar with the wrestlers using special costumes provided for guests, plus a souvenir photo to remember it all by before heading back out into Tokyo's busy streets.