Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour and Photo With Sumo Wrestlers

The Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour offers a rare chance to witness the intense training of sumo wrestlers during their closed-door morning sessions. Led by a licensed English guide, participants can explore the sacred stable environment of an active Yokozuna. The experience culminates in a photo opportunity with the wrestlers, providing an exclusive glimpse into the traditions of this ancient Japanese sport. Strict etiquette must be observed to respect the wrestlers and their rituals, making this tour a truly immersive cultural experience.

Key Points

• Unique opportunity to observe the sacred training practices of sumo wrestlers during a morning practice session.
• Guided experience with a licensed English guide interpreter and audio guide to enhance understanding of the sumo culture.
• Chance to take a commemorative photo with sumo wrestlers, including an active Yokozuna, after the practice session.
• Strict etiquette rules must be followed, such as maintaining silence and not touching the wrestlers without permission.
• Tour accessibility information, including meeting point, transportation, and availability for most travelers.

Overview of the Sumo Practice Viewing Tour

The Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the sacred training practices of sumo wrestlers at the Tatsunami-beya Sumo Stable in Tokyo, Japan.

This highly recommended tour includes a guided experience with a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter and audio guide.

Visitors can observe the wrestlers during their morning practice session, a strictly prohibited activity for the general public.

Following the practice, there’s a chance to take a commemorative photo with the sumo wrestlers.

The tour also provides exclusive access to the only sumo stable in Japan with an active Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo.

Key Features of the Tour Experience

Visitors on the Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour can witness the intense training regimen of sumo wrestlers during their morning practice session.

The tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the sacred training space of a sumo stable, with the added opportunity to take a commemorative photo with the wrestlers after their practice.

Participants must follow strict etiquette rules, such as remaining silent and not stepping on the ring.

The tour also includes a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter and an audio guide to enhance the experience.

This guided tour provides an exclusive glimpse into the world of sumo wrestling.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Participants meet at the Tatsunami-beya Sumo Stable at 8:30 AM.

Look for the guide in a blue Happi, the traditional jacket with the Sunrise Tours logo.

The tour starts and ends at the same meeting point. It’s accessible via public transportation, taking approximately 20 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station.

Travelers should follow the guide’s instructions and be mindful of the strict etiquette during the experience.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 25 participants and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate.

Etiquette and Prohibited Actions

Strict etiquette must be observed throughout the Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour. Visitors must remain silent and avoid standing or moving during the practice session. Certain actions are strictly prohibited, as illustrated in the table below:

Prohibited Actions	Explanation
Stepping on the ring	Disrespectful to the sacred training space
Touching wrestlers without permission	Intrusive and can disrupt their concentration
Showing the soles of the feet	Considered rude and offensive
Excessive perfume	Can be distracting to the wrestlers
Eating or drinking	Not allowed in the training area

Mobile phones must be silenced, and no flash photography or video recording is permitted. Adherence to these rules ensures a respectful and immersive experience for all.

Photo Opportunity With Sumo Wrestlers

After the silent observation of the intense sumo training session, travelers are granted a unique opportunity to capture a commemorative photo with the wrestlers.

A designated photo area is set up, allowing participants to pose alongside the massive sumo athletes. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is included in the tour package, providing a special memento to take home.

The guide will assist in arranging the photos, ensuring everyone gets a chance to interact with the wrestlers and have their picture taken.

These photos will serve as a cherished reminder of the immersive sumo practice viewing experience.

Accessibility and Age Restrictions

The Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate.

Children aged 0-3 aren’t allowed on the tour. Parental permission is required for participants under 18 years old. This is due to the strict etiquette and rules that must be followed during the sumo practice viewing.

Talking, standing, or making noise is strictly prohibited. Touching the wrestlers without permission and showing the soles of feet are also prohibited. Mobile phones must be silenced, and no flash photography or video recording is allowed.

Keeping these regulations in mind ensures a respectful and immersive experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Travelers receive confirmation of their Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 25 participants.

Fortunately, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans. Additionally:

• Bookings are subject to availability and confirmation.
• Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time may result in forfeiture of the full tour price.
• The tour may be impacted if the Yokozuna (highest-ranked sumo wrestler) isn’t present during the practice session.
• Participants under 18 years old require parental permission to join the tour.

Additional Considerations

Aside from the booking and cancellation policies, there are a few additional considerations travelers should keep in mind when participating in the Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour.

While the tour may accommodate most travelers, it’s not wheelchair accessible. Participants must be able to move about the stable and follow strict etiquette, including remaining silent and seated during practice.

Children under 3 aren’t allowed, and those under 18 require parental permission. Plus, the appearance of the highest-ranked sumo wrestler, the Yokozuna, isn’t guaranteed at every practice session.

The tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the sacred world of sumo.

The Sum Up

The Sumo Practice Viewing Guided Tour offers a unique chance to witness the intense training of these revered athletes in their sacred environment. Participants can observe the wrestlers’ dedication, snap a commemorative photo, and learn about the traditions of this ancient Japanese sport. While strict etiquette must be observed, this immersive experience provides an unforgettable window into the world of professional sumo.