Asakusa Sumo Club opened in 2024 in the Rokku Broadway shopping arcade in Asakusa, a district that represents Tokyo's traditional downtown area. The restaurant has been featured in numerous international media outlets as a place where you can enjoy Japanese cuisine while watching a sumo show performed by former sumo wrestlers. I made a reservation and headed to the restaurant to experience the fun of learning about Japan's national sport.
On this day, the venue was bustling with tourists from overseas. Many families had come, and everyone, from children to the elderly, looked excited as they waited for the show to begin. On entering the venue, the first thing that catches your eye is the overwhelming presence of the large sumo ring that stands in the center. The ring is a real one, made with “Arakida clay,” the same material that is also used at the Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall. The spectator seats are set up around the ring, allowing you to watch and experience the sumo show up close.
Once seated, it’s time for dinner. The meal consists of a chanko nabe (Japanese hot pot) set, an essential part of the world of sumo. The special chanko nabe, supervised by a former sumo wrestler, is an authentic recipe with a rich dashi broth. One great thing about the chanko nabe is that it’s piping hot and filled with plenty of ingredients, including chicken, vegetables, and deep-fried tofu. In addition to fried chicken and inari sushi, which sumo wrestlers love as auspicious foods, the meal also comes with edamame and dessert, and the first drink is free, making it a great deal. The food menu is also all-you-can-eat, so you can have as many servings as you want. Enjoy your meal while experiencing traditional Japanese culture.
Once you’ve had your fill of chanko nabe, the show finally begins. The opening performance is a dance by geisha. After admiring the graceful dance of the geisha dressed in gorgeous kimonos, it’s finally time for the sumo wrestlers to make their appearance.
On this day, two former sumo wrestlers, Asanokuma and Asanobori, demonstrated traditional techniques such as shiko (sumo squats) and suriashi (sliding feet). First, they demonstrated a morning practice routine. During the shiko (sumo squats), which are said to ward off evil spirits underground by stomping hard on the ground, the audience practiced shouting the traditional “Yoisho!” chant together. During the practice bout, the sound of the wrestlers’ bodies colliding with each other resonated throughout the venue, creating a truly exciting experience. Furthermore, the hosts provided humorous commentary on the basic rules of the bouts and prohibited moves. That you can learn about sumo while through a fun experience is another reason for the venue’s popularity.
The most exciting event of the day was the three-round match between two sumo wrestlers to decide the day’s champion. The wrestlers collided with each other, shouting the traditional “Hakkeyoi nokotta!” The audience was thrilled by the powerful bout unfolding before their eyes! Everyone stomped their feet, and the spectators on the east side cheered for Asanokuma, while those on the west side cheered for Asanobori, yelling “Ganbare!”, a traditional cheer of support in Japanese. The louder the cheers, the more excited the wrestlers became, and the venue was engulfed in a frenzy. This sense of unity is one of the attractions of the Asakusa Sumo Club.
After enjoying the heated matches between the former sumo wrestlers, there was a corner where the audience could try out sumo themselves. The host asked for volunteers to challenge the wrestlers, and one by one, the audience members put their names forward. From among them, eight challengers were selected by lottery. Some were strong opponents who had trained in American football, while others were female and even cute children chosen to be sumo wrestlers today. After introducing themselves, they chose the wrestler they would be facing and spoke of their enthusiasm. For the show, they were dressed in sumo wrestler costumes, mawashi (sashes tied around the waist) and topknots. Their humorous appearance had the audience laughing loudly.
Though the costumes may have seemed humorous, the matches were absolutely serious, with the audience wrestlers giving it their all. The challengers boldly took on the challenge as the audience cheered loudly. You could really feel the strength of the wrestlers as they effortlessly lifted larger men, unfazed by the body slam collisions. Just when you thought they were all powerful, one child wrestler skillfully dodged the professional wrestler to win a major victory, jumping up and down in celebration. Each bout was exciting and full of laughter, creating a great atmosphere. Once each match is decided, the challengers can take commemorative photos with the wrestlers amid the applause and cheers of the audience applauding their efforts. Everyone, both those who took on the challenge and the spectators who cheered them on, was left very satisfied.
During the show, there’s a Q&A session for the audience and a group photo session, so the two hours just fly by. Before leaving, you’ll receive a commemorative photo, as well as a generous gift of souvenirs like an original tote bag, wooden masu sake cup, a senshafuda sticker, and a hand towel.
The Asakusa Sumo Club is perfect for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture, as you can learn about sumo, Japan’s national sport, and even experience a match while savoring authentic Japanese cuisine like chanko nabe. Be sure to make a reservation and enjoy a spectacular sumo show.
(As of publication on December 19, 2025)
A thrilling sumo show where you can wrestle with former sumo wrestlers
Asakusa Sumo Club
WEB SITEArea: Asakusa Address: 2-10-12 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo Experience: Asakusa Sumo Club
