Visit a sumo training session in Ryogoku !
Are you looking for an exceptional cultural experience in Japan for your holidays ?
Are you a learner of Japanese tradition and would like to discover more about the Japanese ideology through culture ?
I deeply recommend you to visit a Sumo training session……and not a Sumo tournament.
Perhaps, some of you have already visited this famous Sumo tournament called “ Basho ” ( meaning place in Japanese ). Unfortunately, reserving a sheet for this session has been harder these last few years.
Therefore, you could opt for going to a sumo training session to know how they prepare them before this tournament event.
An Invitation to the World of Sumo
What is the “Japanese spirit”? An elusive concept —an essence that’s not easily defined but rather felt through a sense of ritual, discipline, and resilience.
Sumo wrestling is a powerful way to experience this spirit. Deeply rooted in Japanese history, more than a sport, sumo serves as a bridge to Japan’s cultural past, inviting visitors to explore values that have shaped Japanese society for centuries.
At Nakamura Beya, ( Beya means “room” in Japan, and it’s the place where the sumo wrestlers pass their life ) a distinguished sumo stable, travelers can witness this spirit firsthand. It’s a rare opportunity to enter the private world of sumo.
Behind the Scenes
Sumo wrestlers,known as a Rikishi, fights in a ring called Dohyo in Japanese.
A nostalgic but symbolic moment in Japan. Sumo isn’t just a sport, but it’s a sacred fight.
Even if today, many Japanese have forgotten the essence of Japan, it remains a part of our culture.
But the world behind these matches remains hidden from most audiences.
Do you know how those Rikishis spend their days ?
In Nakayama Beya’s exclusive training sessions, visitors can observe these athletes as they rigorously prepare, guided by their Oyakata (master).
In this training stable, the focus goes beyond winning—each wrestler embodies values of dedication and resilience, following a path handed down through generations.
This experience is no ordinary tourist attraction; it’s a personal invitation to step into a cultural tradition that demands both physical and spiritual strength. For travelers who want more than surface-level sightseeing, Nakayama Beya offers a uniquely intimate encounter with Japan’s past.
Nakayama Beya’s training sessions are held only at specific times in Ryogoku, the sanctuary of Sumo fans. Advance booking is essential, as availability is limited to when the stable is actively training
Difficulties of raising a Rikishi
At the beginning, let’s know a bit about the true story of Japanese Sumo.
I’d like to explain to you how participating in this experience could help preserve Japanese traditions.
Educating a Rikishi is financially challenging. Although sumo is Japan’s national sport, it doesn’t receive direct support from the government as part of cultural heritage preservation.
Financial stability comes only to those who reach the top ranks of Yokozuna or Ozeki, while most of them rely on sponsorships.
That is why becoming a Rikishi is a risk for many Japanese youth. Behind the glory of Yokozuna as you see on TV’s, many Rikishis find it hard to follow this career path.
Local businesses often step in, supporting these athletes as a way to honor Japan’s traditions.
For wrestlers, demonstrating resilience and dedication isn’t only about personal achievement—it’s a means of survival and a testament to the value of tradition.
How will the training session go?
During the session you will see the master of all disciples, called Nakamura Oyakata, manage the whole lesson.
Usually, the length is about 1 hour and a half. If you feel this is too long or you want to try something more specific, you could always contact them to adjust to your needs.
The Oyakata designs each session according to his own insight, adapting based on his understanding of his “Deshis”, meaning disciples in Japanese.
Observing this dynamic firsthand is powerful—visitors see how respect and humility form the foundation of sumo and experience the honor of watching techniques that have been perfected over centuries.
As you watch these athletes hone their craft, you gain a deep appreciation for the complexity of sumo. It’s a sport, yes, but it’s also an art form, a test of character, and a way of life.
What I like about Sumo…and why I recommend seeing the training.
Ordinarily, in Japan, a passionate Sumo lover would go to the Sumo Beya to see their favorite Rikishi.
Sumo isn’t just a sport but it’s also a common topic between Japanese people, especially for the older generation, even if in business situations.
Telling about your favorite Rikishi, reveals your thoughts. Each Rikishi has their fighting style, and this tells a lot about your personality.
That is why, if you’re working or living in Japan, if you’re looking for a deeper connection with Japan, this could be a nicer opportunity.
Practical Information
How to Book Your Visit
How to get this unforgettable opportunity ? Reserve from their official website.
Nakamura beya are flexible and open to any special requests and customized plans.
In this case, you can contact them directly through their website.
Nakamura beya welcomes VIP and specific visit
If you’re looking for a more tailored experience, Nakamura Beya offers great flexibility and various options. For instance, if you’d like to try ‘Chanko Nabe,’ the traditional hot pot enjoyed by sumo wrestlers, they can arrange an exclusive dining experience just for you.
Contribute to protect the Japanese heritage
Sumo’s traditions, rooted in resilience and respect, are a reflection of the Japanese spirit itself.
Join us in supporting and experiencing this extraordinary cultural heritage firsthand—a privilege that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Links
Reserve from here : https://nexspark.jp/
