Finding Sumo Moments · 相撲
A wee looksee into the how and where you can experience some "Sumo Moments" either through an official tournament or the not so public events.
Official
Six 15 day tournaments a year, 3 in Tokyo, 1 in Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka. Tickets are like fairy dust, but you never know, collect a bunch of friends and try getting the lottery tickets!
When a wrestler retires and he has reached a high rank there is usually a ceremony held in Ryokogu. It's unique, with a lot of ceremonies, and a day of demonstrations from the wrestlers ending with the hair cutting ceremony. Check out the Japanese events site - https://www.sumo.or.jp/IrohaEventSchedule/
Special 1 Day Events
There are special one-day tournaments held in Tokyo during the year, there is even a global kids tournament! Check out the Japanese events site - https://www.sumo.or.jp/IrohaEventSchedule/
Off The Beaten Track
Usually happens on a business day in early April and offers a whole day covering different aspects of Sumo, closing out with some matches. Some great photo opportunities and it's all free!
Open to the public (free) and happens the day before each of the 15 day tournaments. It starts at 10:00AM and you will have to check the news on the Japanese Official Sumo Site for details beforehand.
A keiko (training) session before each 15 day tournament where the council reviews and ranks the wrestlers before the tournament so that they can create the Banzuke. Some are open to the public (free) you will have to check the news on the Japanese Official Sumo Site for details beforehand.
Morning training sessions are conducted early morning at all stables and you can attend as part of a tour (fee) or by simplifying asking (free)
Between the 15 day tournaments the wrestlers go on regional tours to where no tournament is held and conduct one-day special events. So, you could catch some sumo if you happen to be in the area at the same time.