Sumo Wrestling & Chanko Lunch in Kawasaki: Step in the Ring
Wrestle with ex-professional sumo wrestlers inside a real training stable
This hands-on sumo class in Kawasaki takes place inside a former sumo stable where you learn the sport's history and rules from a certified guide, watch a morning practice session, wrestle with ex-professional wrestlers, and share a traditional Chanko Nabe lunch with them. The experience lasts around four hours and includes wrestling clothes, tour photos, and a souvenir T-shirt you keep.
The Experience
You meet your guide at Shin-Kawasaki Station and head straight to the stable—a real facility used officially until 2022. Your guide walks you through how sumo wrestlers actually live, the customs that have shaped the sport since the Samurai era, and the rooms where they train, bathe, and eat. Then you're seated right in front of the ring to watch the morning practice session, which typically runs three to four hours and shows the rigorous training that continues to this day.
After the practice, you step into the ring yourself. The wrestlers adjust their strength to keep things safe and playful, so whether you're a hardcore fan, a woman, or a child, the experience is designed for you to actually grapple with them and feel the training firsthand. You don't need to bring wrestling clothes—they're provided—and you'll keep an original T-shirt and a handprint as souvenirs when you leave.
The day ends with Chanko Nabe, the hearty hot pot that builds a sumo wrestler's body. You make chicken dumplings together with the wrestlers, then everyone eats around a table that was actually used in the sumo room. This is when you hear their stories about the strict daily lives and values that define the sport. A certified guide leads the entire experience in English, and tour photos are included.
What’s included
- A certified English-speaking guide.
- entry to the real sumo stable.
- morning practice session viewing.
- hands-on wrestling with ex-professional wrestlers.
- Chanko Nabe lunch shared with the wrestlers.
- wrestling clothes provided.
- original designed T-shirt souvenir.
- tour photos.
Operated by MagicalTrip Inc.
Is this one for you?Step into a real sumo stable and wrestle with ex-professional wrestlers while learning their training methods and culture from an expert guide—everything happens in one morning with gear provided.
Traveler reviews
Top questions
What is Chanko Nabe and why do sumo wrestlers eat it?
Chanko Nabe is a traditional hearty hot pot dish that sumo wrestlers eat to build their bodies. On this tour, you make chicken dumplings—the main ingredient—with the wrestlers and eat together around a table that was actually used in the sumo room, hearing stories about their daily lives as you share the meal.
Will I actually wrestle with real sumo wrestlers, or just watch?
You step into the ring and wrestle with ex-professional sumo wrestlers. They adjust their strength to keep the experience safe and fun for everyone, whether you're experienced or trying it for the first time.
What do I need to bring or wear for the sumo wrestling part?
You don't need to bring wrestling clothes—the tour provides them. Wear comfortable clothes to the stable, and note that large luggage like suitcases aren't permitted on the tour. You'll keep an original T-shirt as a souvenir.
How early does the morning practice session start, and how long does it last?
Sumo morning practice typically begins around 7:00 a.m. and lasts three to four hours. You watch this session seated right in front of the ring before participating in your own wrestling experience.
Can I join if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Tell the tour operator at least one day before the tour about any dietary requests or allergies. The food is prepared in kitchens outside the tour company, so allergy-free meals cannot be guaranteed, though the operator will make every effort to help at different stops throughout the day.
What happens if I'm running late to meet the guide?
The tour starts on time at Shin-Kawasaki Station. If you're more than five minutes late without contacting the operator, it will be treated as a cancellation with no refund or rescheduling available.
Sumo Wrestling & Chanko Lunch in Kawasaki: Step in the Ring
4h 10m · EN
from JP¥ 25,800 per person
★★★★★★★★★★4.98725 reviews
