Looking for Nagoya sumo tickets and experiences? With a lowest price guarantee? Look no further!
The annual Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament is a thrilling spectacle that takes place every July.
In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to secure tickets and enhance your sumo experience in Nagoya.
From premium seating options to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, I'll show you how to make the most of your visit. Whether you're a die-hard sumo enthusiast or a curious newcomer, my insider tips will help you navigate the exciting world of professional sumo and create unforgettable memories during your stay in Nagoya.
Oh, and as a handy bonus, all of these sumo tickets and experiences come with a Lowest Price Guarantee.
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Nagoya Sumo Tickets - Best Seats & Experiences
by Rob Dyer
Lowest Price Guarantee!
All of these sumo experiences come with Viator's Lowest Price Guarantee. It covers all 200,000+ experiences they sell. If you find the same product cheaper within three days of booking or while you're in your destination, they'll refund the difference.
Unleash your inner sumo fan
As one of Japan's six annual grand tournaments, this event offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the power, skill, and tradition of Japan's national sport firsthand. If you're new to the world of sumo you might like to read my introductory guide: Visiting a Sumo Tournament.
If you're already a sumo fan or simply cannot wait to grab some tickets for the once-a-year Nagoya basho before they sell out (they always do), then read on...
Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament
The Nagoya basho of the annual Sumo Tournament Tour takes place at Dolphins Arena on July 14-28, 2024, including the opening and closing days.
The event at the Dolphins Arena (Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium), is a highlight of the summer sports calendar in central Japan. This 15-day event attracts sumo enthusiasts from across the country and around the world, offering a chance to witness top-ranked wrestlers compete in Japan's national sport.
Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium, aka Dolphins Arena, is the venue every July for the Nagoya Basho | Photo: By 円周率３パーセント - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Nagoya Basho is known for its challenging conditions, as the hot and humid summer weather adds an extra layer of difficulty for the competing rikishi. Spectators can enjoy the full pageantry of sumo, from the elaborate ring-entering ceremonies to the intense bouts that often decide championships and promotions.
Seating options at the Nagoya basho
Stand seats
Located at the back of the arena, stand seats offer individual fold-down chairs for comfort. They're categorized into three classes: S, A, and B, with S-class at the front and B-class at the top. Despite being furthest from the action, even B-class seats provide a decent view of the dohyo (sumo ring) due to the arena's compact size. These seats are an excellent choice for those who prefer a higher vantage point or require back support.
Box seats
For a more traditional and immersive experience, box seats offer superior views of the dohyo. These floor-level cushions come without backrests and are sold in sets of 1-4 seats. Box seats are divided into four classes: S, A, B, and C. S-class boxes are located directly behind the ringside seats, while C-class boxes are at the rear of the ground floor. Keep in mind that these sought-after seats can be challenging to secure, especially for popular tournament days. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the box seating area.
Choosing your ideal seat at the Nagoya arena
When selecting your seat, consider these factors:
Viewing experience
- Box Seats (S and A class): Offer the closest view of the action. Ideal for those who want to see the wrestlers' expressions and hear the impact of collisions.
- Stand Seats (S class): Provide a good balance of proximity and elevated perspective, allowing you to see the entire ring clearly.
Comfort
- Stand Seats: Best for those who prefer back support or have difficulty sitting on the floor for extended periods.
- Box Seats: Offer a more authentic experience but require sitting on cushions without back support.
Budget
- B and C class seats (both stand and box) are more affordable and still offer a good view of the dohyo.
- S class seats are premium-priced but arguably provide the best experience.
Group size
- Box seats are ideal for small groups (1-4 people) who want to sit together.
- Stand seats are better for individuals or pairs who don't mind being separated.
Cultural experience
- Box seats offer a more traditional Japanese viewing experience.
- Stand seats are similar to Western-style stadium seating.
Duration of stay
- If planning to watch all day, consider stand seats for more comfort.
- For shorter visits, box seats can provide a more intense, close-up experience.
Remember, the arena's compact size means there are no truly bad seats. Your choice ultimately depends on your priorities: proximity to the action, comfort, budget, and the type of experience you're after.
5 Best Nagoya Sumo Tickets & Experiences - Overview
1. Grand Sumo Tournament & Area Walking Tour
Sumo culture can be confusing for visitors to Japan. In addition to admission, this small-group tour reveals the secrets of sumo so that you can better appreciate the traditional Japanese sport.
2. Grand Sumo Tournament Experience S-Class Panoramic View Seats
S-Class seats are chairs on the second floor, offering a panoramic view of the entire arena. Eating and drinking at your seat is allowed, and since there's no need to sit in a seiza (kneeling position), these seats are less burdensome on your legs.
3. Grand Sumo Tournament Experience (A or B Class Seats)
This is a 4-5 hour experience at the Nagoya basho. On this tour, as well as a choice of seated tickets, you will learn all about sumo, and greet the most famous sumo wrestlers in Japan as they enter the stadium for their big match.
4. Grand Sumo Tournament Experience with Chanko Nabe Stew
This 4-hour immersion includes prime seating, wrestler greetings, expert commentary, and a taste of chanko nabe stew. Enjoy live matches, explore sumo merchandise, and gain deep insights into Japan's national sport and its rich traditions.
5. Grand Sumo Tournament Viewing Tour with Tickets
Enjoy A-section seating, expert commentary from a licensed English-speaking guide, and witness traditional ceremonies. Includes round-trip transfers from Nagoya Station, sumo booklet, and official ranking chart. Ideal for both enthusiasts and newcomers.
Lowest Price Guarantee!
All of these sumo experiences come with Viator's Lowest Price Guarantee. It covers all 200,000+ experiences they sell. If you find the same product cheaper within three days of booking or while you're in your destination, they'll refund the difference.
Nagoya Sumo Tickets & Experiences - In Detail
1. Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament & Area Walking Tour
4 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Non-Refundable
Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament & Area Walking Tour
This experience involves Japanese culture and learning about the rituals of sumo.
Step into the rich world of sumo at the Dolphins Arena during the Grand Sumo Tournament in Nagoya. This experience offers more than just spectating - it's a journey through 1,500 years of Japanese history and tradition.
What to Expect
- Cultural Immersion: Discover the ancient roots of sumo, originally performed to entertain the gods.
- Sumo Rituals: Learn and participate in authentic sumo ceremonies and traditions.
- Warrior Training: Experience a taste of sumo training, gaining insight into the disciplined life of these athletes.
- Social Connection: Share a drink with fellow enthusiasts, toasting with a hearty "Kanpai!"
- Prime Viewing: Enjoy the tournament from excellent seats, with an option to upgrade to front-row spots (additional fee applies).
This tour promises to deliver the kind of mind-blowing moments that make travel in Japan so unique. It's an opportunity to embrace adventure, experience living history, and create lasting memories.
Package Includes
- Tournament admission
- Guided cultural experience
- Sumo ritual participation
- Training session
- Social gathering
Optional Upgrade
- Front-row seating available for an additional fee
Reserve this experience
2. Nagoya Sumo Tournament Experience S-Class Panoramic View Seats
4 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Non-Refundable
Nagoya Sumo Tournament Experience S-Seat Panoramic View
Enjoy the Grand Sumo Tournament from S-seat chairs on the second floor, offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the entire arena. These comfortable seats allow for easy eating and drinking, without the need for traditional seiza sitting, ensuring a relaxed experience throughout the event.
Tour Highlights
- Prime Viewing: Witness the most exciting matches from 3:40 PM to 6:00 PM in comfort.
- Expert Guidance: An English-speaking guide will accompany you, ready to answer any questions.
- Flexible Access: One-time re-entry permitted with guide notification.
Schedule (14:00-18:00)
- 14:00: Meet your friendly English-speaking interpreter near the venue. (Exact meeting point provided a week before the event)
- 14:15: Enter the arena and learn about sumo history and rules from your guide.
- 15:20: Watch the "nakabi" ceremony from your seat, marking the start of top-ranked wrestler matches.
- 16:00-18:00: Experience the main event - intense matches between top-ranked wrestlers, coinciding with Japanese TV broadcasts.
- 18:00: Tour concludes after the final match.
Additional Information
- Seating is within the S-seat section, but specific locations cannot be guaranteed.
- Feel free to explore the venue after reaching your seat.
- This is a guided group experience with a fixed schedule.
Reserve This Experience
3. Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament Immersive Experience (A or B Class Seats)
4-5 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Non-Refundable
Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament Immersive Group Experience (A or B-Class Seats)
Dive into the heart of Japan's national sport with our annual Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament experience. This once-a-year July event offers a unique opportunity to witness world-class sumo wrestling while gaining deep insights into its rich traditions and culture.
Experience Highlights
- Expert Guidance: Learn from an English-speaking local sumo expert throughout the event.
- Premium Seating: Enjoy the matches from A-class reserved seats (B-class occasionally, based on availability).
- Cultural Immersion: Understand the intricate rituals and history of sumo wrestling.
- Group Atmosphere: Share the excitement with 15-20 fellow sumo enthusiasts.
What's Included
- Reserved A-class (or sometimes B-class) seating
- English-speaking sumo expert guide
- Comprehensive sumo information pamphlet
Optional Add-on
- Authentic Chanko Nabe Dinner: Experience the traditional sumo wrestler's diet at a local restaurant. (Sukiyaki or vegetarian options available with advance notice)
Important Notes
- Minimum group size: 15 participants
- Tour may be canceled with full refund if minimum number isn't met
- Dinner alternatives require at least one week's advance notice
Reserve This Experience
4. Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament Experience with Chanko Nabe Stew
4 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Non-Refundable
Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament with Chanko Nabe Stew
Dive into the heart of Japan's national sport with our annual Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament experience. This once-a-year July event offers a unique opportunity to witness world-class sumo wrestling while gaining deep insights into its rich traditions and culture.
Experience Highlights
- Expert Guidance: Learn from an English-speaking local sumo expert throughout the event.
- Premium Seating: Enjoy the matches from A-class reserved seats (B-class occasionally, based on availability).
- Cultural Immersion: Understand the intricate rituals and history of sumo wrestling.
- Group Atmosphere: Share the excitement with 15-20 fellow sumo enthusiasts.
What's Included
- Reserved A-class (or sometimes B-class) seating
- English-speaking sumo expert guide
- Comprehensive sumo information pamphlet
Optional Add-on
- Authentic Chanko Nabe Dinner: Experience the traditional sumo wrestler's diet at a local restaurant. (Sukiyaki or vegetarian options available with advance notice.)
Important Notes
- Minimum group size: 15 participants
- Tour may be canceled with full refund if minimum number isn't met
- Dinner alternatives require at least one week's advance notice
Reserve This Experience
5. Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament Guided Viewing Experience
6 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Free Cancellation
(up to 24 hrs)
Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament: Guided Viewing Experience
Immerse yourself in Japan's national sport with this exclusive tour to the prestigious Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament. Secure coveted tickets and gain insider knowledge from a licensed English-speaking guide as you witness the power and pageantry of professional sumo.
Experience Highlights
- Prime Seating: Enjoy the tournament from A-section chair seats.
- Expert Commentary: Learn about sumo's history, rules, and traditions from your licensed guide.
- Ceremonial Spectacle: Witness the champion's entrance and other traditional rituals.
- Local Immersion: Experience the excitement alongside passionate sumo fans.
- Convenient Access: Benefit from round-trip transfers between Nagoya Station and the venue.
What's Included
- A-section chair seat tournament ticket
- Licensed English-speaking guide and interpreter
- Round-trip transportation from Nagoya Station
- "The Sumo" English booklet
- Official tournament ranking chart (Banzuke-hyo)
This tour offers a good blend of convenience, expert insights, and prime viewing of Japan's most revered sporting tradition. Whether you're a sumo enthusiast or new to the sport, you'll come away with a deeper appreciation for this centuries-old athletic art.
Reserve this experience
Lowest Price Guarantee!
All of these sumo experiences come with Viator's Lowest Price Guarantee. It covers all 200,000+ experiences they sell. If you find the same product cheaper within three days of booking or while you're in your destination, they'll refund the difference.
Where to stay in Nagoya
Nagoya offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. The city center, particularly around Nagoya Station and Sakae, boasts numerous high-end and mid-range hotels, with convenient access to transportation and major attractions.
It's advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons or major events such as the Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament.
Nagoya Hotel Recommendations
Nagoya Hotel Recommendations
Getting to Nagoya: Your transportation guide
By Rail
The shinkansen bullet train offers the quickest and most convenient route to Nagoya from major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. For those coming from the Kansai region, Kintetsu operates local trains connecting to Nagoya. Japan Railway (JR) provides services from other parts of the country, including Takayama (Gifu Prefecture) and Matsumoto (Nagano Prefecture).
By Air
Central Japan International Airport, located just 30 minutes from Nagoya by Meitetsu train, serves both domestic and international flights. It's an excellent option for travelers from distant regions like Hokkaido and Sendai in the north, or Kyushu and Okinawa in the south.
By Car
Nagoya is well-connected to other major cities via an extensive network of highways. However, be prepared for Nagoya's notorious traffic and potentially challenging driving conditions, especially if you're not accustomed to navigating large Japanese cities. If you want advice on driving in Japan read this post.
By Bus
For budget-conscious travellers, highway buses offer an economical alternative. Nagoya Station houses a large bus terminal with connections to cities across Honshu. While not the fastest option, it's often the most cost-effective. Use online platforms like 12GoAsia to check schedules and book seats in advance.
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About the Author
A writer and publisher from England, Rob has been exploring Japan’s islands since 2000. He specialises in travelling off the beaten track, whether on remote atolls or in the hidden streets of major cities. He’s the founder of TheRealJapan.com.
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Resources
The Sumo Tickets & Experiences
Nagoya Dolphins Sumo Arena Grand Sumo Tournament & Tour
Nagoya Sumo Tournament Experience S-Class Panoramic View Seats
Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament Immersive Experience (A or B Class Seats)
Nagoya Sumo Tournament Experience with Chanko Nabe Stew
Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament Guided Viewing Experience
Further Sumo Guides
7 Best Sumo Experiences You Can Book Instantly
Osaka Sumo Ticket - Best Seats & Experiences
Tokyo Sumo Tickets – Best Seats & Experiences
What To Eat In Nagoya: Top 5 Delicious Local Dishes
Visit Nagoya City Guide (Official Tourism Website)
Visit Nagoya-Nagoya City Guide
Experiences Travel Hub
