Enter "sumo stables" in the search box and you'll get your answers

I haven't done this but I tried to find out information a while back so I could take friends. You have to make a reservation ahead of time, and not all sumo stables do this. There's at least one tour operator in Tokyo that includes a sumo stable as an option but I didn't keep the info so you'd have to search for it yourself.

What I understand about this is that you have to arrive on time, sit QUIETLY on the floor while the practice goes on, and leave when allowed - when the practice is over. No coming & going, no moving around.

But like I said, I haven't actually done it.

Hi ejpl!

My hubby and I just got back from Japan and we had the pleasure of going to a sumo stable to see their morning training. It was incredible!

We organised it through a tourism office, which you'll find all over Tokyo - but FYI we went to the one in the Tokyo Metropolitan Building in Shinjuku. We asked the women in the office if it was possible (as I had heard the same thing as you), and they rang around to a couple of stables and booked us in for the next morning's training. I think it's most useful if a Japanese-speaker calls up to arrange it for you. They gave us a detailed map and directions, as well as some tips on ettiquette - eg. no talking to the sumos, no photos, don't sit with your feet pointing towards the ring.

As I said, it was a very cool experience, and well worth it. One of the sumos spoke to us afterwards and allowed us to take a photo with him in the end.

Good luck! :)

I would love to visit a sumo stable. Does anyone know if anything like this is available near Osaka or Kyoto and if they would be open during the August?

beckR,

We are also interested in the sumo stables visit and have been thinking of booking a tour, they come with a lunch etc. But a re quite expensive for a family of four particularly when we don't think we will like the food. What sort of cost was the tour you sorted out with the tourism office and how long was the duration?

Thanks,

Kim

Scarybear, it cost NOTHING :)

It is on the goodwill of the stable if they allow people to visit.

However, it is just going in to watch the training session - it doesn't include lunch or tours or even any explanation or discussion about the sport, as your tour seems to have. So it's up to you if you are interested in that.

Good luck :)

Oh and training was 2 - 3 hours, but you don't have to be there for the whole thing, as long as you arrive and leave quietly.