Experience the Thrill of Live Sumo Wrestling!
Watching the Grand Sumo Tournament live is an absolute must for anyone visiting Japan. Picture this: the vibrant colors of the wrestlers’ mawashi (loincloths), the electrifying atmosphere, and the intense rivalry all come together to create an unforgettable experience. Sumo is not just a sport; it’s a spectacle filled with rituals and ancient customs that date back over 1500 years. Originally, sumo was a religious event to pray for a good harvest, but it has since evolved into a thrilling competition that captivates fans six times a year. You can catch tournaments in Tokyo three times a year, and once each in Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. How cool is that?
We were over the moon to snag tickets to the Nagoya Basho on the very first day of the tournament, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The energy in the arena was palpable, especially during the final match of the day when the crowd erupted in cheers and even tossed their seat cushions in pure excitement. It was a moment of pure jubilation when Abi, a Komusubi, triumphed over the Yokozuna Terunofuji. An announcement rang out urging fans to stop throwing cushions, but the spirit of the moment was too strong to contain!
When to Arrive for Maximum Fun!
We arrived at the venue right at 2:00 pm, just in time to catch the Juryo wrestlers stepping into the dohyo (the sumo ring). Watching these intermediate division wrestlers was entertaining, but the real excitement begins at 3:30 pm when the top-tier wrestlers make their grand entrance. You won’t want to miss a second of the action from around 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm—this is where the big names come to play!
The matches kick off with the lowest-ranking wrestlers, known as Maegashira, and gradually build up through the ranks—Komusubi, Sekiwake, Ozeki, and finally, the legendary Yokozuna. Each bout is a display of not just strength, but strategy, technique, and years of training. If you want to dive deeper into the intricacies of sumo wrestling, check out our guide on Sumo Wrestling in Japan for all the juicy details!
How to Get to the Arena
The Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament is held at the Dolphins Arena, conveniently located near the iconic Nagoya Castle. To get there from Nagoya Station, hop on the subway to Shiyakusho Station. The journey is a breeze and takes about 15 minutes, including transfers. Once you exit at Shiyakusho Station, make sure to take Exit 7 and enjoy a pleasant 5-minute walk to the arena. As you stroll, soak in the sights of the picturesque Nagoya Castle moat on your left and a variety of shops and restaurants on your right.
As you draw near to the venue, you’ll spot a stunning drum tower crafted from bamboo, adorned with colorful flags known as Nobori. These flags proudly display the names of sumo stables, wrestlers, and their sponsors, creating a festive atmosphere that gets you even more pumped for the bouts ahead!
What Awaits You Inside
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself in a lively queue to enter the arena. Don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese; just ask for an English pamphlet at the entrance. This handy guide will provide you with the rankings of the top wrestlers and the bout schedule for the day, making it easy to follow along.
On our visit, there were COVID-19 protocols in place, requiring everyone to wear masks and limiting cheering to clapping only. However, the atmosphere remained enthusiastic, and luckily, snacks and drinks were available for purchase, which you could enjoy right in your seat. A cold beer or a tasty bento box adds to the fun of the experience!
Nagoya Basho Seating Options
When it comes to seating, we usually opt for Chair Seats since sitting on the floor for an extended period isn’t the most comfortable. But this time, we decided to go for the Box Seat C, known as Masu-seki, which comes with a table. In the past, we’ve tried the Box Seat designed for four people, but trust me, it felt like a sardine can! The Box Seat C, however, is spacious enough for two people and includes a table for your refreshments, camera, and other essentials.
Although it’s a bit pricier, I highly recommend this option. You’ll enjoy a more comfortable experience, and the table is a game-changer for keeping your drinks and snacks close at hand while you cheer for your favorite rikishi!
Getting Your Tickets
Now, let’s talk about securing those coveted tickets! They typically go on sale about a month before the tournament starts. Each ticket is valid for one day, with gates opening at 8:30 am and the last bout wrapping up just before 6:00 pm. You can snag tickets through the Nihon Sumo Kyokai website, or if you’re already in Japan, try your luck at Lawson’s convenience store.
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