NEW! Fukuoka Sumo Tickets – Best Seats & Experiences

Overview of the Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament

As it is the last of the six annual sumo tournaments every year, some of the most thrilling moments in sumo can be found at the Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament. Taking place every November in Fukuoka city on the southern island of Kyushu, this tournament features all the lower and top-ranked rikishi (wrestlers) competing for glory in an electrifying atmosphere.

Even though I have a soft-spot for Kyushu and sumo, I've not yet managed to catch this final event in the annual sumo calendar. So I researched the options available through TripAdvisor's Viator website and here's what I found.

NOTE: This guide focuses on Fukuoka sumo tickets and experiences bookable through Viator (with instant confirmation). If you're just looking sumo tickets alone then I suggest using Oosumo - the official sumo ticket website. Just note: tickets purchased through the Oosumo website cannot be changed or cancelled for any reason.

Tournament schedule and format

• The 2024 tournament runs between 10th - 24th November inclusive
  
• Sumo matches start in the morning and finish around 6pm
• Main matches of the top-division sumo wrestlers start around 2pm
• All ticket types allow you to enjoy all matches from morning until the end of the day
• You can enter and exit at anytime during matches

Fukuoka Kokusai Center opens at 8:30am. However, on Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd November the doors open at 10:30am, and on Sunday 24th the doors open at 10:00am.

The Fukuoka basho follows the usual round-robin format, where each rikishi (wrestler) competes against various opponents over a 15-day period. The schedule allocates matches each day, culminating in the highly anticipated finale that often sees championship implications unfold. This structure not only adds suspense but also allows fans to witness their favorite wrestlers battling it out for victory.

Fukuoka Kokusai Center venue information

Some of the excitement surrounding the Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament centers around its venue, the Fukuoka Kokusai Center. This modern facility offers an intimate setting that enhances the viewing experience, bringing fans closer to the action. With various seating options available, it's a venue that caters to all types of spectators.

The venue is equipped with comfortable seating, excellent sightlines, and amenities designed to make your visit as comfortable as possible. The arena's modern design ensures that even the most affordable seats still provide a satisfying view of the dohyo (ring), allowing you to appreciate the power and skill of the wrestlers as they go head to head - often literally!

Fukuoka Kokusai Center location map

Significance of Fukuoka basho in the sumo calendar

Tournament enthusiasts know that the Fukuoka basho holds a distinguished place in the annual sumo calendar. As one of the six major tournaments, it not only showcases the sport's top performers but also offers a platform for rising stars to make their mark on the scene.

Kokusai significance extends beyond just the matches themselves; it serves as a cultural touchstone for sumo wrestling within Japan. The Fukuoka basho highlights the sport's deep traditions, allowing both seasoned fans and newcomers to explore its rich history while enjoying high-stakes competition in an electric atmosphere. This unique combination makes the Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament a must-see for anyone visiting the city in November.

Types of seating options at the Fukuoka Basho

Now that you're excited about attending the Fukuoka Basho, it's important to understand the different seating options available to make the most of your experience. Uniquely among the venues used to host sumo every year, the seating in Fukuoka Kokusai Center is all on one floor. This gives the experience something a bit extra as, even in the cheapest seats, you're never too far from the action.

Each type of seating offers a unique perspective of the thrilling action on the dohyo. Here’s a quick rundown, from the most expensive to the cheapest:

List of seating types and  purchase requirements

See seating inside Fukuoka Kokusai Center on Google Maps

Arena seats

One of the most popular choices among spectators is the arena stand seats, which are positioned towards the back of the arena. These individual fixed-seating chairs are categorized into three classes: S, A, and B. Even with the increased distance from the dohyo, stand seats provide a decent view because of the arena's compact and one-level design. If you want to sit in an actual seat (rather than on cushions only in the box seats) then these are the seats to choose.

Box seats

One of the more traditional experiences are the box seats, which offer a close-up view of the action. Comprising cushioned floor seating arranged in groups of 1-4, box seats come in several classes. Securing these seats can be competitive, especially for the more desirable S-class options (anticipate early booking). Box seating provides the closest proximity to the action, allowing you to appreciate the rituals and sheer energy of sumo wrestling.

NOTE: When booking box seats all the seats in the different types must be booked.

Pros and cons of different seat types

Unlike other sporting events, sumo wrestling offers a variety of seating options, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. When deciding on the ideal spot for your Fukuoka sumo experience, it's crucial to weigh these factors carefully.

Pros

• Arena Seats offer back support and a good elevated view
  
• Box Seats provide an authentic and intimate viewing experience
  
• Arena Seats are more affordable, making them budget-friendly
  
• Arena Seats accommodate larger groups more easily
  
• Arena Seats allow quick exit from the arena

Cons

• Arena Seats are located at the back, which can feel distant from the action
  
• Box Seats can be uncomfortable as they lack backrests
  
• Box Seats can be significantly more expensive
  
• Box Seats tend to limited to smaller groups (1-4 people)
  
• Box Seat guests might have to enter and leave in a more complex manner
  

Pros of Arena seats

If you prefer a comfortable experience, Arena Seats provide back support with individual fold-down chairs. They are categorized into classes, allowing you to choose based on your budget while ensuring you still have a decent view of the dohyo from the back. (This option is ideal if comfort is a top priority for you.)

Pros of Box seats

Box Seats allow for a more traditional sumo experience, as they offer a closer view of the action and ceremonial aspects. They enable you to feel the vibrations of the matches and immerse yourself in the atmosphere. (These seats appeal to those wanting to connect deeply with the sport.)

Another advantage of Box Seats is the social aspect; they are typically sold in sets of 1-4 seats, making it easier to enjoy the event with friends or family. Sitting directly on the floor gives a unique and intimate perspective of each bout, amplifying the thrill of the experience.

Cons of seating options

One important consideration is that Arena Seats, while comfortable, can limit your proximity to the action, making it harder to appreciate the intricacies of the matches. Additionally, Box Seats, while offering superior views, may become uncomfortable over extended periods from sitting crossed-legged. (These factors are key when deciding which type of seat best fits your needs.)

Seating options can significantly influence how you experience the tournament. Arena Seats might suit individuals who prefer ease of exit, while Box Seats cater more to those looking for an authentic and immersive experience. All box seats are actually just cushions on the floor, where sitting crossed-legged is most practical. Each comes with trade-offs, so consider your priorities before making a choice. (Being aware of these details can greatly enhance your overall sumo event experience.)