How to Book a Sumo Training Experience in Japan for Tourists

Sumo might seem like a sport you can only observe from the sidelines – but what many travellers don’t realise is that you can actually join a sumo training experience as a visitor. It’s a rare chance to step into the ring, learn basic moves like shiko and suriashi, and even square off against a real former sumo wrestler.

Several reviewers called it a “highlight of their trip,” with many surprised by how welcoming and engaging the experience was – especially for beginners. Some sessions also include a chanko nabe lunch and time for photos, making it both a cultural and interactive experience.

If you’re curious about sumo but want something more hands-on than a tournament, stable tour or sumo restaurant show, this is a fantastic option to consider.

Click here to grab your FREE 27-page eBook, which shows you exactly how to experience sumo in Tokyo and Osaka.  Includes tournaments, live shows, sumo stable tours, training sessions, DIY tours, and more!

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Tokyo or Osaka? Sumo Training Experience Options

In this article, we’re exploring three sumo training experiences currently available in Tokyo and Osaka, each offering a different blend of culture, activity, family-friendliness and accessibility.

• OUR #1 PICK! The Sumo Hall Hirakuza in Osaka provides a tourist-friendly, interactive sumo training introduction that’s both fun and educational. It is especially suitable for families traveling with little ones because it is the most flexible option for younger children and also the most affordable option. Click here to book the Sumo Hall Hirakuza Sumo Workshop Experience in Osaka through Klook, Viator, or TripAdvisor.
• #2. The Sumo Training Experience with Lunch in Tokyo blends cultural immersion with light physical activity, making it a well-rounded choice for families with children – including younger ones who may prefer to watch rather than participate. Click here to book your sumo training experience with lunch through Viator, GetYourGuide or TripAdvisor.
• #3. The Amita Sumo Training Experience in Tokyo is more intense and physically demanding, led by a professional coach and ideal for adults and active teens looking for a serious sumo training session to learn more about sumo techniques. Click here to book your Amita Sumo Training Experience through GetYourGuide.

Our #1 Pick. The Sumo Hall Hirakuza in Osaka

Located in Osaka’s popular Dotonbori district, the Sumo Workshop Experience at The Sumo Hall Hirakuza offers a hands-on introduction to sumo that’s designed specifically for tourists. Led by retired professional wrestlers, this daytime session includes practical training, cultural rituals, and a yummy lunch – all in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

• Includes sumo training led by former wrestlers, interactive demonstrations of basic techniques (like shiko stomping and suriashi sliding), a salt-throwing ritual, and a commemorative photo in traditional sumo attire (kesho-mawashi).
• The workshop is held at 1.30 pm on select days, with the full experience lasting approximately 2 hours.
• Includes a chanko nabe lunch and one drink (soft drink or beer).
• The experience is conducted in both Japanese and English, making it accessible for international visitors.
• Children aged 0 to 2 can attend and watch for free.
• Price: $US 122 for adults (13+), $US 86 for children aged 3–12

“This was one of the most fun and unique experiences we had in Japan! The wrestlers were welcoming, and the explanations in English made it easy to follow. A great mix of culture, humour, and hands-on learning.”

“The workshop was incredibly engaging. We learned real sumo moves, got to challenge a wrestler, and even took photos in a kesho-mawashi. Perfect for families and first-time visitors!”

Click here to book the Sumo Hall Hirakuza Sumo Workshop Experience in Osaka through Klook, Viator or TripAdvisor. Book early, as they regularly sell out! You can use our coupon code PRETRAVELLER10 to get 10% off your first booking through Klook.

#2. Sumo Training Experience with Lunch in Tokyo

Located between Tokyo and Yokohama, this immersive sumo experience takes you inside a real (former) sumo stable to learn about sumo traditions, try basic training exercises, and even step into the ring for a friendly match with a retired wrestler. The tour also includes a sit-down lunch with the wrestlers and time for photos and conversation. It’s a great mix of cultural insight, physical activity, and fun.

• These packages are held Monday to Friday each week and include a four-hour guided tour, sumo training session, match experience (optional), and lunch with sumo wrestlers. The package starts at 9.30 am. The tour includes a guide, photos, and a t-shirt.
• Held at a former sumo stable near Shin-Kawasaki Station (about 20 minutes south of Tokyo Station).
• The tour includes a look at former stable facilities, such as the dining room, bath area, and training space.
• Guests help make chicken dumplings for chanko nabe and then enjoy a shared meal with the wrestlers.
• Pricing is $US 176 per adult and $US 119 per child aged 4-15 years old, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. Younger children can also attend and watch.
• It is suitable for adults and older children who are comfortable participating in light physical activity.

“We had such a great time! The wrestlers were so welcoming and made it easy to join in—even for someone with no experience. The chanko nabe lunch after training was delicious and felt like the perfect way to finish the experience.”

“It was fun, educational, and very interactive. Our kids loved trying the moves, and we all learned a lot about sumo culture. The photos at the end were such a nice touch—something we’ll treasure from the trip.”

Click here to book your sumo training experience with lunch through Viator, GetYourGuide or TripAdvisor. Some booking options offer the option to book now at zero cost and pay later.

#3. Amita Sumo Training Experience in Tokyo

Located between Tokyo and Yokohama, the Amita Sumo Dojo offers a rare chance to not just watch sumo – but participate in a sumo training session. Led by Takeshi Amitani, a Japanese sumo coach, this hands-on training session takes place in a real sumo ring using authentic techniques, rituals, and gear.

• The package includes an authentic sumo training experience coached in English by Takeshi Amitani, including practising core sumo movements and finishing with friendly matches. A genuine mawashi sumo belt will be provided for participants to use during the training session, and a photo session will also be held. No food or drinks are included. No prior experience is necessary.
• Held at Amita Sumo Dojo, near Heiwajima Station (about 20 minutes south of Tokyo Station).
• Training sessions are held daily from Tuesday to Friday each week, starting at 1 pm. The activity duration is 2.5 hours.
• Pricing is $US 111 per person. A minimum of two participants is required for a session to go ahead. Make your booking at least 3 days in advance. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• Bring your own drinks, two towels, and a change of clothing (you will sweat). Five-minute showers are available for 100 yen.
• Best for adults and teens; very active and physically demanding. This activity is not suitable for younger children.

“Absolutely worth it! The wrestlers were so friendly and made the experience fun and informative. We learned a lot and laughed the whole time—our teens said it was one of their favourite activities in Japan.”

“This was hands down the most memorable part of our trip. The training was just the right mix of serious and silly, and it was surprisingly accessible even if you’re not super fit. Highly recommended for anyone curious about sumo!”

Click here to book your Amita Sumo Training Experience through GetYourGuide. Book now at zero cost and pay later.

Final Thoughts: Which Sumo Training Experience Should You Choose?

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of sumo or just curious to try something uniquely Japanese, these three experiences offer something for everyone—from hands-on training to cultural insight and family-friendly fun. Each one has its own charm, and the right choice will depend on your travel style, fitness level, and who you’re travelling with. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

• Our #1 PICK! Sumo Hall Hirakuza in Osaka: A relaxed, tourist-friendly, and most affordable option in the heart of Dotonbori, Osaka. Includes cultural rituals, basic training, a photo op in traditional attire, and lunch. It is very family-friendly—even infants can attend—and great for first-timers. Click here to book the Sumo Hall Hirakuza Sumo Workshop Experience in Osaka through Klook, Viator or TripAdvisor.
• #2. Sumo Training Experience with Lunch in Tokyo: A great mix of learning, light activity, and fun, held in a former sumo stable. Includes a training session, a friendly match opportunity, and a delicious chanko nabe lunch with the wrestlers. Best for adults and older kids but suitable for younger children as observers. Click here to book your sumo training experience with lunch through Viator, GetYourGuide or TripAdvisor.
• #3. Amita Sumo Training Experience in Tokyo: An energetic and authentic experience led by a professional sumo coach. Ideal for adults and teens who are ready for a physically demanding session in a real sumo ring. No food is included, but lots of laughs and hands-on learning. Click here to book your Amita Sumo Training Experience through GetYourGuide.

Don’t forget to grab our FREE Sumo Experiences in Japan ebook. It breaks down all the options to help you plan a sumo experience that suits your travel style, budget and timing for both Tokyo and Osaka.

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