Tokyo Shinjuku: Sanctuary Grand Sumo Experience For Group

If you’re looking for something genuinely different in Tokyo, this sumo experience offers a rare chance to try your hand at real sumo training rather than just watching a tournament. For $999 per person, you’ll spend an active and culturally immersive morning at a dedicated sumo dojo in Shinjuku, led by an experienced coach. The tour lasts about a few hours, combining warm-ups, rituals, and wrestling, giving you a taste of what life is like for a sumo wrestler—minus the intense training schedule and grueling diet.

What we love about this tour is the hands-on approach—you get to wear a real Mawashi (sumo belt), practice basic moves, and even wrestle with friends or the coaches if you’re brave enough. Plus, it’s off the beaten path, offering an authentic, uncommercialized slice of Japanese culture. The second highlight is the chance to participate in traditional Shinto rituals, deepening your understanding of sumo’s spiritual roots.

A small drawback? The price is on the higher side, especially considering it’s a single session experience. It’s also important to note that this experience doesn’t take place on a clay dohyo (the traditional sumo ring), but on a mat in a training room, which may feel less dramatic but equally authentic.

This tour suits travelers who value active, immersive experiences and want an authentic look at Japan’s national sport beyond just spectating. If you’re curious about training like a sumo wrestler, enjoy learning about Japanese customs, or want something memorable and different, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Hands-on Experience: Try real sumo training on a mat, wearing a Mawashi if you wish.
• Cultural Rituals: Learn about sumo’s Shinto traditions and rituals firsthand.
• Expert Guidance: Trained by a professional Japanese sumo coach, who speaks both Japanese and English.
• Flexible Participation: No experience needed, and clothing does not matter—just bring your enthusiasm.
• Convenient Location: In central Tokyo, easily accessible from major train stations.
• Family-Friendly: Children under 4 can observe, and kids 5+ can participate with a booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Location and Accessibility

This sumo experience takes place on the 3rd Floor of the Yamaguchi Building in Takada, Toshima-ku, Tokyo. The meeting point is just a 3-minute walk from Takadanobaba Station, served by JR Yamanote, Seibu Shinjuku, and Tokyo Metro Tozai lines, making it quite convenient even if you’re staying in central Tokyo. From nearby stations like Nishi-Waseda, it’s only a 9-minute walk, which makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing plans.

The Itinerary and What’s Included

The tour begins with a straightforward check-in at the designated location, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow participants. From there, the experience kicks off with a demonstration led by the coach, who is a seasoned sumo professional. Expect to learn basic warm-up routines, stretching exercises, and the fundamental rules of sumo wrestling.

Once warmed up, you’ll be guided through various rituals rooted in Shinto traditions, such as salt-throwing and ceremonial gestures that are performed before sumo matches. These rituals are not just performative but carry spiritual significance, symbolizing purification and respect.

The core of the experience is practicing on the mat. You are not required to have any prior experience—the coach will break down the movements step by step. You’ll learn how to grip, stance, and push, culminating in a friendly wrestling match with your friends or even the coaches if you’re feeling confident.

What Makes This Experience Unique

Unlike watching a sumo tournament or show, here you become part of the action. The tour explicitly states that no sumo belt (Mawashi) is necessary to participate, but it is provided at no extra charge if you want to wear one during your training. You’ll also be able to wear comfortable clothes—no special gear needed. After warming up and practicing, you might even find yourself wrestling like a sumo wrestler, feeling the raw power and balance firsthand.

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Authenticity and Cultural Deepening

The tour isn’t just about physical activity; it’s designed to introduce you to the spiritual and ceremonial aspects of sumo. This includes learning about the rituals that are part of the sport, offering a glimpse into Japan’s Shinto traditions. One participant commented, “Feeling the traditional rituals made the experience much richer. It’s not just about wrestling but about respecting tradition.”

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Bring a towel and drinks—you’ll sweat a lot, and a shower is available nearby for ¥100 (about $1).
• Booking requires at least 2 days’ notice, so plan ahead, especially during busy travel seasons.
• No formal clothing is required, but comfortable, sweat-absorbing clothes are recommended.
• The experience does not include travel to a clay dohyo, so this is more training-focused rather than a professional match viewing.
• Photographs and videos are permitted, but with guidelines: avoid capturing participants without permission and don’t interfere with the session.

The Value of the Tour

While $999 may seem steep for a couple of hours, consider what’s included: a genuine sumo training experience with a professional coach, authentic rituals, and the opportunity to try sumo yourself. It’s a rare chance to step into the shoes of a sumo wrestler and get a true feel for the sport, which most travelers only observe from the sidelines.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy active cultural activities and want more than just sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re curious about Japanese martial arts, Shinto traditions, or sports culture. Families with kids aged 5 and up will also find it engaging—kids can observe or participate, making it a fun and educational outing.

If you’re seeking a quick, authentic burst of Japanese tradition that’s memorable and physically engaging, this sumo tour will deliver.

FAQs

Is any prior experience needed to participate?
No, this experience is designed for beginners. You’ll be guided step-by-step by a trained coach, so no previous sumo or martial arts experience is necessary.

Can children join the sumo practice?
Children under 4 can observe, while those 5 and older can participate if booked in advance. It’s family-friendly, and kids seem to enjoy the active nature of the session.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting sweaty. No special gear is needed, although you can wear a Mawashi if you wish, which is provided at no extra cost.

How accessible is the location?
It’s very accessible, just a short walk from Takadanobaba Station, with several train lines nearby. It’s easy to include as part of a day sightseeing around Tokyo.

What’s not included in this experience?
No food is served during the session, and it doesn’t take place on a clay Dohyo—more of a training mat in a dojo. Also, no transportation is included; plan to arrive at the meeting point on your own.

Can I take photos or videos?
Yes, but follow the guidelines: avoid filming without permission and don’t interfere with the session or other participants.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting to go beyond watching and truly experience sumo, this tour offers a rare, engaging peek into Japan’s national sport. It combines physical activity, cultural rituals, and authentic coaching in a location that’s both convenient and welcoming. Whether you’re a sports fan, history buff, or just looking for a fun challenge, this experience offers a memorable way to connect with Japanese tradition.

While it’s priced a bit higher, the value lies in the hands-on participation and cultural insight. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy active experiences, families with kids, or anyone eager to try something completely different in Tokyo.

In sum, this sumo training tour in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district provides a sincere, active, and surprisingly accessible way to understand and feel the spirit of sumo wrestling. It’s a genuine cultural activity that combines physical challenge with tradition, leaving you with stories and skills you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: