basic information

Ryogoku is an area of Tokyo where the sumo stadium, many sumo stables, chanko restaurants and other sumo related sights can be found. It is the center of the sumo world.

Until the beginning of the 20th century, sumo tournaments were held outdoors at shrines and temples. In 1909, the first permanent sumo hall was built in the Ryogoku area, where outdoor sumo events had been held for a long time before.

The current Kokugikan is the fourth permanent sumo stadium built in Tokyo. It has been in use since 1985, and is located just next to Ryogoku Station. It seats over 10,000 visitors and hosts three of the six annual sumo tournaments (in January, May and September).

Sumo stables are the places where sumo wrestlers live and train. Among the several dozens of sumo stables currently in existence, many are located in the Ryogoku area. At some stables, it is possible to view the sumo practice in the early morning hours.

Chanko nabe is the staple food of sumo wrestlers. It is a hot pot dish that comes in many varieties and contains vegetables, seafood and meat. There are several restaurants in the Ryogoku area that feature chanko nabe on their menus.

Inside the Kokugikan

Monument at Ekoin Temple, where sumo bouts used to be staged outdoors

Any advice or questions? Voice them in the forum!

how to get there

Take the JR Sobu Line or Subway Oedo Line to Ryogoku Station.

Orientation in Tokyo

news and reports

	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report April 10, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report April 6, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report April 2, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report March 31, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report March 29, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report March 26, 2009

travel community

Popularity of Ryogoku:
Users who have been to Tokyo: 2596
Users who have been to Ryogoku: 240

31st of 49 most visited sights in Tokyo.
91st of 554 most visited sights nationwide.

Ratings for Ryogoku:

japan-guide.com Rating:		interesting
User Rating (by 117 users):	77/100	recommended

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hotels & ryokan

Oak Hotel Budget hostel & hotel in the heart of Tokyo. Group booking, ISIC discount accepted. Sakura Hostel Perfect for budget travelers and backpackers! Largest hostel in Tokyo. Friendly staff, cozy rooms, 24-hour internet lounge. Khaosan Tokyo Guest House No.1 Hostel Group in Tokyo. 4 branches located in Asakusa & Akihabara area. Finally opened a new branch "SAMURAI"! Aizuya-inn Free internet, hot drinks, friendly foreign staff, and a warm welcome are what you will find at this Tokyo inn.

tours and packages

Sumo Tour Guided tour to see a sumo tournament in Tokyo. Tokyo Tours Various tours and travel packages for Tokyo and surroundings.

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