Ryogoku Sumo Town Audio Guide
Spreading along the east bank of the Sumida River, Ryogoku is known as the home of sumo, Japan's national sport. This audio guide follows the history of sumo and Ryogoku, the Kokugikan arena where the grand tournaments a…
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Welcome to Ryogoku Sumo Town
Welcome to Ryogoku. This district spreading east of the Sumida River is, you might say, the very home of sumo, Japan's national sport. Step off at the station and the first to greet you are the imposing figures of the wrestlers, the rikishi. Signs and monuments to sumo stand here and there, and now and then you may even meet a real sumo wrestler, ambling by in a yukata robe. Here you'll find the great sumo arena, along with many 'stables' where the wrestlers live and train, and shops lining the streets serving their distinctive chanko stew. Sumo is not merely a sport. It is said to trace its origins to ancient rites praying to the gods for a good harvest, and on the ring, sacred customs still live on. For locals, this is a hometown where proud tradition is rooted. For travelers, it is a special town where you can directly touch the culture of Japan's spirit and strength. For the next little while, let's trace the story this town and sumo have walked together. Let's begin with how Ryogoku became the town of sumo — with its story.
What you'll hear on site
- The Story of Ryogoku and Sumo ¥500 · 7 days
- The Ryogoku Kokugikan Arena ¥500 · 7 days
- The Rules and Aesthetics of Sumo ¥500 · 7 days
- The Stables and Morning Training ¥500 · 7 days
- Chanko-nabe Hotpot ¥500 · 7 days
- Kyu-Yasuda Garden and Ekoin ¥500 · 7 days
- The Sumida River Fireworks ¥500 · 7 days
- Walking Ryogoku ¥500 · 7 days
Unlock all stops for 7 days — ¥500 / 7 days
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