Grand Sumo Tournament in May 2026 Japan Ticket
1-chōme-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
Description
Overview
The Grand Sumo Tournament (Honbasho) returns to the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo this May, offering 15 days of intense competition and ancient tradition. This tournament is one of the most prestigious events in the sumo calendar, where elite Rikishi from the top Makuuchi division battle for the coveted Emperor’s Cup in the heart of Japan’s sumo capital.
Attendees will experience the full spectacle of the sport, from the lower-division matches starting in the morning to the high-stakes bouts of the Ozeki and Yokozuna in the late afternoon. Beyond the matches, the Kokugikan atmosphere is enriched by traditional food, the presence of former champions, and the deep-seated rituals that have defined sumo for centuries.
Schedule & Tickets Information
These tickets are sold out on the official platforms, but they are still available through trusted resale marketplaces in Japan.
Below are the complete details for the event, including dates, venues, seat types, and other important ticket information. Once you’ve reviewed everything, simply contact us with your preferred ticket selection, and we’ll assist you in securing it.
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| Date and Start Time | Venue | Seat Types |
| May 10, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 11, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 12, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 13, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 14, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 15, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 16, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 17, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 18, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 19, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 20, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 21, 2026 – 08:45 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 22, 2026 – 10:30 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 23, 2026 – 10:30 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
| May 24, 2026 – 10:00 | Kokugikan (Tokyo) | 2nd Floor Chair (S, A, B, C), Box Seats (1-6 person S, A, B, C) |
Venue Information
- Venue name: Ryogoku Kokugikan
- Address: 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
- Entry gates info: Main entrance accessible via the West Gate; 2nd floor chair seats use the general entrance stairs
- Nearby landmarks: Directly adjacent to JR Ryogoku Station and the Edo-Tokyo Museum
FAQs
What is the difference between chair seats and box seats?
Chair seats are standard stadium-style seating located on the 2nd floor, offering a clear bird’s-eye view of the ring. Box seats (Masu-seki) are located on the 1st floor and consist of partitioned square areas with cushions on tatami mats, accommodating groups.
When do the highest-ranked wrestlers begin their matches?
The top-division (Makuuchi) wrestlers typically begin their ring-entering ceremonies around 15:45. The final and most prestigious matches of the day, involving Ozeki and Yokozuna, usually take place between 17:30 and 18:00.
Is there a specific protocol for sitting in box seats?
Yes, visitors sitting in box seats are required to remove their shoes before stepping onto the tatami mat area. It is also traditional to sit cross-legged or in a kneeling position on the provided cushions throughout the afternoon.
Can I find traditional sumo food at the Kokugikan?
Absolutely, the venue is famous for its Chanko-nabe, the traditional protein-rich stew eaten by sumo wrestlers. You can also purchase a variety of specialized bento boxes, snacks, and drinks from the many vendors located within the stadium corridors.
What happens during the Senshuraku (Final Day)?
Senshuraku is the 15th and final day of the tournament, featuring the most critical matches that determine the winner. The day concludes with an elaborate victory ceremony where the Emperor’s Cup and various other trophies are awarded to the champion.
Event Calendar
Sunday, May 10, 2026 - Sunday, May 24, 2026