Ryogoku Sumo Town: Walking Tour & Chanko Nabe Lunch

Step into the heart of sumo wrestling in Ryogoku Sumo Town in Tokyo! This neighborhood houses the friendly giants of Japan’s national sport, a grand stadium (Ryogoku Kokugikan) where the battles take place, training stables, key landmarks, and specialty restaurants. Join Yoko and her team of spirited sumo-loving guides for a walking tour of the town, learn about the history of sumo, view the outsode of the training stables, then stop for a chanko nabe lunch at one of the best restaurants in the area. Ryogoku's connection to sumo wrestling is as firmly-planted as the wrestlers' stances on the dohyo (sumo ring). The district houses the Ryogoku Kokugikan, a grand arena that hosts major sumo tournaments three times a year. This small group tour will take you through the town with a knowledgeable guide that will school you in the history, development, and ways of sumo–you’re also encouraged to ask as many questions as your heart desires! Stop to see the stables where sumo wrestlers train and live, spot interesting sumo landmarks, and then refuel with lunch at a specialty restaurant… Chanko nabe is the quintessential sumo wrestler's meal. This hearty, hot-pot dish is an integral part of sumo culture–providing the sustenance to build muscle, gain weight, and stay healthy. Traditionally, chanko nabe was consumed primarily by sumo wrestlers in preparation for battle, but it has since become a beloved dish enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Chanko nabe is a cauldron brimming with ingredients like chicken, pork, seafood, tofu, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth. The tour consists of two parts: 1) A walking tour of Ryogoku sumo town: Visit sumo-related landmarks, learn the 1600-year-old history and development of sumo, view the outside of the sumo training stables, engage in a Q&A session with your expert host 2) Lunch at a chanko nabe restaurant: This nutritious hot-pot dish is the centerpiece of the sumo wrestler diet to gain weight, build muscle, and nourish the body