Sumo, Japan's national sport, has been around since the Edo period. It is very popular with foreign tourists visiting Japan but tickets to attend an official Grand Sumo Tournament are very hard to come by. There are also many customs involved in visiting a sumo stable, which can be somewhat intimidating for first-timers. To solve this problem, we are pleased to announce the opening of a new facility in January 2024!
The center of the restaurant features a "real" sumo ring made using the same materials and standards as those used in the Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena and sumo stable practice halls. Seated around the sumo ring, guests can enjoy authentic soy sauce chanko-nabe made with carefully selected ingredients and under the supervision of a former rikishi (the name given to sumo wrestlers in Japan) who served as a chanko-ban (the person who cooks for sumo wrestlers) during his days in the sumo wrestling stable.
Following the meal, the much-anticipated sumo show begins. First, a former rikishi and current student wrestlers explain the fundamental movements of sumo and demonstrate the basics of the sport, then it is time for a challenge! Guests who wish to experience sumo wrestling are invited to try on a sumo costume and have a bout with a former rikishi. This rare opportunity to step into a real sumo ring and truly feel like a rikishi promises to be a very memorable experience for all participants! Participants will also have the opportunity to take a commemorative photo with the former rikishi after the challenge session is over.
The restaurant is conveniently situated in Asakusa, an area that is still rich in Japanese tradition and culture, close to Sensoji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street, and is ideally located just a 2-minute walk from the Asakusa station on the Tsukuba Express railway line. Those who have enjoyed learning about the world of sumo at our establishment and who have developed further interest in the sport should definitely consider attending a Grand Sumo Tournament next time!
Highlights
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A new chanko-nabe restaurant has opened in Asakusa.
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The restaurant houses a sumo ring just like the real thing, where guests can enjoy a sumo show while dining.
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Former rikishi and current student sumo wrestlers perform in the show.
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The show also features a sumo challenge segment in which the audience is invited to participate.
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The restaurant also has a space where guests can experience wanko-soba (all-you-can-eat noodle dishes).
