1. What are the best places to buy souvenirs related to Sumo Wrestling in Tokyo?
1. Ryogoku Kokugikan Gift Shop – This is the official sumo venue in Tokyo and has a large gift shop that sells souvenirs related to sumo wrestling such as t-shirts, keychains, mugs, and mini replica sumo dolls.
2. Sumo Museum Gift Shop – Located inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan, this museum also has a gift shop that sells unique souvenirs such as hand-painted sumo pottery and handmade wooden toys.
3. Asakusa Tourist Center – This center located near Sensoji Temple has a wide selection of traditional Japanese souvenirs including sumo themed items like bento boxes, sake sets, and decorative plates.
4. Tokyo National Museum Gift Shop – This museum in Ueno Park has a small gift shop that sells sumo-themed items such as calendars, postcards, and books about the history of sumo wrestling.
5. Akihabara Don Quijote – This famous discount store in Akihabara has a section dedicated to traditional Japanese souvenirs where you can find items like sumo wrestler figurines and keychains at affordable prices.
6. Tokyo Central Sports & Shichifukujin Shotengai – Located inside Tokyo Station, this sports store sells a variety of official licensed merchandise related to different sports including sumo wrestling.
7. Tsukiji Outer Market – In addition to fresh seafood and produce, this popular market in Tsukiji also has shops selling souvenirs with designs featuring sumo wrestlers such as t-shirts, towels, and magnets.
8. Ota Market – If you’re looking for something unique, visit Ota Market in Katsushika Ward where you can find hand-crafted traditional Japanese paper art with intricate designs of samurai warriors including sumos.
9. Online Stores – For those who want to purchase souvenirs without leaving their home or hotel, there are also various online stores such as Kamesushi Japan and Tokyo Direct that specialize in selling sumo wrestling souvenirs.
10. Sumo Wrestlers’ Stables – Some sumo stables in Tokyo also have a small gift shop where you can buy merchandise directly from the wrestlers themselves. However, these are often only open to the public during tournament season.
2. Are there any street vendors selling merchandise outside the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
Yes, there may be street vendors outside the Ryogoku Kokugikan selling various sumo related merchandise such as t-shirts, keychains, and snacks. These vendors are typically only present during sumo tournaments and may not be there all year round.
3. How early do I need to arrive at the tournament to purchase tickets?
It is recommended to arrive at least 30-45 minutes prior to the start of the tournament to purchase tickets. This will allow you enough time to find parking, make your way to the ticket counter, and get through any potential lines.
4. Is it possible to purchase tickets for a specific match or day of the tournament?
Yes, it is possible to purchase tickets for a specific match or day of the tournament. Many ticket vendors and official websites offer single match or daily passes for customers to choose their preferred schedule. However, availability may vary depending on the popularity of the match or day.
5. Are there any discounts available for purchasing multiple days of tournament tickets?
It depends on the specific tournament and its policies. Some tournaments may offer discounted multi-day packages or early bird discounts, while others may not have any discounts available. It is best to check with the tournament organizers or website for any potential discounts before purchasing tickets.
6. Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Ryogoku Kokugikan during a Sumo Wrestling match?
Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the Ryogoku Kokugikan during a Sumo Wrestling match. However, certain restrictions may apply, such as no alcoholic beverages or large coolers. It is always best to check with the venue beforehand for their specific policies.
7. Are there merchandise sales inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan during the tournament?
Yes, there are merchandise sales inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan during the tournament. Fans can purchase a variety of sumo-related items, such as t-shirts, keychains, posters, and more. Prices vary depending on the item and vendor.Some sumo wrestlers may also have their own merchandise available for purchase at their respective stalls inside the venue. These may include autographs, photos, or other fan items.
Additionally, there are usually food and drink vendors selling snacks and refreshments throughout the venue. These can range from traditional Japanese snacks to more modern offerings like popcorn and ice cream.
It’s a good idea to bring cash with you to make purchases at the tournament, as many vendors do not accept credit or debit cards.
8. Where can I find authentic and traditional Japanese snacks and treats near the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
There are several options to find authentic and traditional Japanese snacks near Ryogoku Kokugikan:
1. The Edo-Tokyo Museum gift shop – Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Ryogoku Kokugikan, the Edo-Tokyo Museum’s gift shop offers a wide variety of traditional Japanese snacks such as senbei (rice crackers), yokan (sweet bean paste jelly), and dagashi (cheap candies).
2. Asakusa Nakamise shopping street – About a 20-minute walk from Ryogoku, the Asakusa Nakamise shopping street is lined with small shops selling all kinds of traditional Japanese treats, including mochi (sticky rice cakes), manju (steamed sweet buns), and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean paste).
3. Depachika at department stores – Many department stores in Tokyo have large food halls in their basements called depachika, which offer a vast selection of Japanese sweets and snacks. There are several department stores located within walking distance of Ryogoku Kokugikan, such as Tobu Department Store, Matsuya Department Store, and Coredo Nihonbashi.
4. Traditional confectionery shops – There are also many specialized confectionery shops throughout Tokyo that sell only traditional Japanese treats. Some notable ones near Ryogoku include Morinaga Kashi, which has been in business since 1913 and is famous for its yokan; Akafuku Hiroki Kamaboko Ten, known for its fish-shaped cakes filled with red bean paste; and Goo Choki Pa Honpo, where you can find unique flavors of senbei such as shiso (perilla) and matcha green tea.
5. Convenience stores – If you’re looking for quick and easy snack options, there are plenty of convenience stores near the Ryogoku Kokugikan that offer a variety of traditional Japanese snacks such as onigiri (rice balls), tsubu-an (chunky red bean paste) sandwiches, and various types of chips and candies. Popular convenience stores in Japan include 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson.
9. Is there a designated area for wheelchair users at the Sumo Wrestling tournament in Tokyo?
Yes, there are designated seating areas for wheelchair users at the Sumo Wrestling tournament in Tokyo. These seats are located on the first floor of the arena and can be reserved in advance through the event organizers. Additionally, there are also accessible restrooms and easy access to elevators for wheelchair users throughout the venue.
10. What clothing is appropriate to wear while attending a Sumo Wrestling match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
Sumo wrestling is a traditional and highly respected sport in Japan, so it is important to dress appropriately when attending a match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan. Here are some suggestions for appropriate clothing:
1. Business casual attire: This may include a collared shirt, slacks or nice pants, and dress shoes. Avoid wearing jeans, t-shirts, or athletic clothing.
2. Conservative clothing: Sumo wrestling is considered a traditional and formal event, so it is best to avoid flashy or revealing outfits. Stick to modest and conservative clothing like long skirts or dresses for women, and long pants for men.
3. Respectful attire: It is customary to remove your shoes before entering the arena, so make sure to wear clean socks or bring indoor slippers.
4. Layers: The Ryogoku Kokugikan can get quite hot and stuffy during matches, so it is best to wear layers that you can easily take off if needed.
5. Comfortable shoes: You will be sitting on the floor during the match, so wearing comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off is recommended.
6. Consider cultural elements: Many people choose to incorporate traditional Japanese elements into their attire when attending sumo matches, such as a yukata (a lightweight kimono) or happi coat (a short cotton jacket).
Overall, the key is to dress respectfully and comfortably while still adhering to some of Japan’s dress customs.
11. Can I purchase official Sumo Wrestling merchandise online if I am unable to attend the tournament in person?
Yes, you can purchase official Sumo Wrestling merchandise online from the official website or through authorized retailers.
12. Are there any popular shopping areas or markets near Ryogoku Kokugikan where I can find unique souvenirs and gifts related to Sumo Wrestling?
1. The Sumo Museum Gift Shop: Located inside Ryogoku Kokugikan, this gift shop offers a wide selection of sumo-related souvenirs and gifts such as t-shirts, keychains, mugs, and more.
2. Edo-Tokyo Museum Gift Shop: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Tokyo, including sumo wrestling. Its gift shop offers various sumo-themed items like figurines, clothing, and traditional crafts.
3. Nitori Culture Center: A shopping complex located near the Ryogoku Station offering a variety of goods related to sumo wrestling and Japanese culture.
4. Asakusa Nakamise Shopping Street: A vibrant street market lined with shops selling traditional Japanese souvenirs and local delicacies. You can find a variety of sumo-themed items here.
5. Sumida River Terrace: Located near the Ryogoku Bridge, this outdoor terrace hosts vendors selling handmade crafts and souvenirs related to Sumo wrestling.
6. Ginza Wako Department Store: This high-end department store has a dedicated section for traditional Japanese crafts and arts, where you can find unique sumo-related souvenirs.
7. Mukunoki Main Store: This specialty store in Asakusa offers a wide range of sumo-themed souvenirs such as keychains, towels, bags, and more.
8. Sukeroku-no-yado Sadachiyo: A souvenir shop located in the historic district of Asakusa offering handcrafted goods featuring designs related to sumo wrestling.
9. Oedo Antiques Market: Held once a month at the Tokyo International Forum, this flea market features antique shops with a variety of vintage items including sumo memorabilia.
10.Akihabara Ameya Yokocho: A crowded shopping street known for its affordable prices on various merchandise including anime goods and traditional Japanese handicrafts like Sumo paper fans.
11. Tokyo 2020 Official Shop: Located at Nihonbashi Takashimaya Department Store, this shop offers official Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics merchandise, including sumo-themed items.
12. Sumo Dojo Yose: This traditional sumo training center hosts a gift shop where you can find unique souvenirs related to the sport, such as sumo rikishi (wrestler) figurines and T-shirts.
13. Is it common for vendors outside of Ryogoku Kokugikan to sell counterfeit items related to Sumo Wrestling? How can I ensure I am purchasing authentic merchandise?
It is not common for vendors outside of Ryogoku Kokugikan to sell counterfeit items related to Sumo Wrestling. However, there have been instances where fake merchandise has been sold in the past.
To ensure you are purchasing authentic merchandise, it is best to buy from reputable sources such as official merchandise shops located inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan or from official online stores. You can also look for official licensing logos and labels on the products you want to purchase.
14. Are photography and video recordings allowed during matches at the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
Photography and video recordings are generally allowed during matches at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, as long as they do not disrupt or interfere with others’ enjoyment of the event. However, flash photography is prohibited during matches as it may startle the wrestlers and disrupt their concentration. It is also important to be respectful of other spectators and not block their view while taking photos or videos.15. Can I bring outside food and drinks into the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan. However, there are usually convenience stores and food vendors located around the venue where you can purchase snacks and beverages. You may also bring your own empty water bottle to fill up at water fountains inside the arena.
16. Is there a dress code for matches at the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
There is no specific dress code for spectators at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, but most people tend to dress casually and comfortably. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you may be standing or walking for extended periods of time. Additionally, keep in mind that shoes must be removed before sitting on tatami mats if you have floor seats.
17. Are there English translations provided during matches at the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
English translations are not typically provided during matches at the Ryogoku Kokugikan. However, some sumo tournaments offer an English audio broadcast available through a rental radio system on a first-come-first-served basis.
18. What should I do in case of a medical emergency during a match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
In case of a medical emergency during a match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, notify an usher immediately for assistance. The venue has trained medical staff on-site who can provide first aid or call for further medical attention if necessary.
19. Is there an ATM inside or near the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
There may be an ATM located inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan, but it is recommended to have cash on hand before attending a match as not all vendors and facilities accept credit cards. If you need to withdraw cash, there are several banks and convenience stores located within walking distance of the venue where you can use an ATM.
20. Are there accommodations for people with disabilities at the Ryogoku Kokugikan?
Yes, the Ryogoku Kokugikan is wheelchair accessible and has designated wheelchair seating available upon request. There are also audio guide services available for visually impaired individuals. It is recommended to contact the ticket office in advance if accommodations are needed.
15. Is there a designated area for foreign tourists or non-Japanese speakers at the tournament with translated commentary or explanations of the matches?
Yes, there is a designated area for foreign tourists and non-Japanese speakers at the tournament. There are also English commentary options available for select matches. Additionally, some stadiums have informational signs and materials in multiple languages to help visitors understand the rules and traditions of sumo.
16. Are there any special deals, promotions, or events happening at nearby stores or markets in honor of the Sumo Wrestling tournament?
It is possible that some nearby stores or markets may have special deals or promotions in honor of the Sumo Wrestling tournament. You can check with individual businesses to see if they are offering any deals or events surrounding the tournament. Some local restaurants or bars may also be hosting viewing parties or specials related to the event.
17. Where is the best place to find information on match schedules and ticket availability before arriving at Tokyo?
The best place to find information on match schedules and ticket availability before arriving in Tokyo would be the official website of the event or the organizing committee. For example, for the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympics, you can visit the official website of the Tokyo Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (https://tokyo2020.org/en/) or websites such as Ticketmaster (https://www.ticketmaster.com/olympic-games-tickets/artist/806020). These websites will have up-to-date information on match schedules, ticket availability, and purchasing options.
18. Are there any restrictions on the size or type of bags allowed inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan during a Sumo Wrestling match?
Yes, there are restrictions on the size and type of bags allowed inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan during a Sumo Wrestling match. Large bags, suitcases, and backpacks are not permitted inside the venue. Small bags such as handbags or purses are allowed, but they may be subject to inspection by security. It is recommended to leave any large or unnecessary bags at your hotel or accommodation before attending a Sumo Wrestling match.
19. Can I purchase traditional Japanese clothing, such as a yukata or kimono, at the ryokuku Kokugikan for the tournament?
Yes, you may be able to purchase traditional Japanese clothing at the ryokuku Kokugikan during the tournament. Some vendors may set up booths selling yukatas or kimonos inside or around the stadium. It is also possible to find local shops or department stores near the stadium that sell traditional Japanese clothing.
20. Is it common practice to tip vendors or shop owners at markets and shopping areas near Ryogoku Kokugikan?
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan. It is not expected or required to tip vendors or shop owners at markets and shopping areas near Ryogoku Kokugikan. However, if you have received exceptional service or would like to show your appreciation, a small tip or gift can be given as a token of thanks.