Ryogoku

Ryogoku (両国) is the center of the sumo world. It is a district in Tokyo where the sumo stadium, many sumo stables, chanko restaurants and other sumo-related attractions can be found. Sumo events have been staged in this area for a long time — until the beginning of the 20th century, tournaments were held outdoors at shrines and temples. In 1909, the first permanent sumo hall was built in the Ryogoku area.

Sumo

Today’s sumo stadium, the Kokugikan, is the fourth built in Tokyo and has been in use since 1985. It seats over 10,000 visitors and hosts three of the six annual sumo tournaments (January, May, and September). On non-tournament days, a small free sumo museum and a shop selling sumo goods are open to visitors. During tournaments, they are only accessible to ticket holders.

Sumo stables are where wrestlers live and train. Among the several dozens of stables currently in existence, many are located in the Ryogoku area. At some stables, it is possible to view morning practice. Most require advance applications by phone and some request that guests are accompanied by a Japanese speaker.

Chanko nabe is the staple food of sumo wrestlers — a hot pot dish that comes in many varieties containing vegetables, seafood and meat. Several restaurants in the area feature chanko nabe on their menus, many managed by retired wrestlers.

Other Attractions

• Edo-Tokyo Museum — Through models, figurines, and life-sized recreations, this outstanding museum vividly illustrates the past of Tokyo. Currently closed for renovations until March 30, 2026; reopens March 31.
• Sumida Hokusai Museum — Opened in 2016 in the birthplace of Katsushika Hokusai. Fully bilingual with permanent and rotating ukiyo-e exhibitions. Hours: 9:30–17:30. Closed Mondays. Admission: 400 yen (permanent exhibition).
• The Japanese Sword Museum — Large number of sword blades and related items, including historic and modern pieces. Hours: 9:30–17:00. Closed Mondays. Admission: 1000 yen.
• Kyu-Yasuda Garden — A Meiji Period-style garden with a pond in the shape of the kanji “kokoro” (heart). Hours: 9:00–19:30 (until 18:00 Oct–Mar). Free admission.
• Yokoamicho Park — Commemorates the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and Tokyo’s WWII fire bombings. The memorial hall and earthquake museum are both free.
• Ryogoku Edo Noren — A pleasant collection of small restaurants in the Ryogoku Station building offering Tokyo specialty foods: sushi, chanko nabe, and soba, plus a replica sumo ring.

Getting There

Take the JR Sobu Line or Oedo Subway Line to Ryogoku Station.