Feel the tense atmosphere in the sumo stable as soon as you step in there, led by your guide. This is what starkly sets apart watching morning sumo practice from ‘sumo shows’ out there. While you can enjoy a humorous performance in sumo shows to entertain spectators and you can even challenge the wrestlers, the morning sumo practice viewing contrasts sharply with the shows because:

In this authentic setting, every wrestler is a member of the Japan Sumo Association, the sole governing body for professional sumo in Japan. Unlike performers who strive to entertain, these professionals are laser-focused on advancing their ranks through rigorous training. Each wrestler you observe participates in grand sumo tournaments held six times throughout the year.

The sumo stable you are visiting has two top-division wrestlers. Watch how grueling it is for other lower-ranked wrestlers to wrest their positions from the two wrestlers. While the professionals keep an unapproachable atmosphere around them during the practice, once they are off from the sumo ring, they are affable; you can take commemorative photos with them.