Sumo tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan (B/C seat)

Witnessing an official sumo tournament (basho) at the Ryogoku Kokugikan is a sporting and cultural experience unparalleled in Japan. The Tokyo Kokugikan hosts three of the six great annual tournaments: in January (Hatsu Basho), May (Natsu Basho) and September (Aki Basho), each lasting 15 days. The bouts begin early with the wrestlers of the lower divisions and escalate in intensity up to the clashes of the yokozuna (champions) at nightfall. A full day at the venue lets you understand the hierarchy, the Shinto rituals before the bout and the incredible strength of these athletes. The stand tickets (isu-seki) cost between 3.500 ¥ and 9.000 ¥ depending on the location; the most premium seats (tamari) reach 20.000 ¥. The tickets go on sale on the official website a few weeks in advance and sell out quickly, especially the best seats. To get there, use JR Ryogoku station (Sobu line). Bring food or take advantage of the venue's stalls to try chankonabe, the wrestlers' favourite energy stew.