Sumo Museum 相撲博物館

Sumo has been a popular spectator sport in Japan for centuries, originating as a ritual at Shinto shrines. The Sumo Museum will show and tell you all about it. Come discover the history and culture behind the sport at this pocket-sized museum in Ryogoku in Tokyo.

Easily accessible in half an hour from Shinjuku via the JR Sobu Line from Shinjuku Station.

The museum is housed inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall. The hall is a one-minute walk from Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line, or a five-minute walk from the Toei Oedo Line exits for the same station.

Located right inside the Ryogoku sumo stadium, the museum showcases rotating exhibitions of art and paraphernalia related to the history of sumo wrestling. Some of the highlights are nishiki-e woodblock prints portraying ancient champions and the richly embroidered kesho-mawashi—silk ceremonial aprons worn by high-ranking wrestlers.

Entrance to this museum is usually free, but during the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament a ticket is required.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website.