For those who are curious about Japanese culture, you may want to visit Japan to experience the power of sumo and watch sumo wrestlers compete against each other. However, people may be hesitant to watch a game because of the language barrier or worries of not understanding the rules.

THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA, a place where you can see a brand-new kind of sumo show that combines traditional sumo with modern entertainment elements, has opened in Osaka since May 30, 2024. The sumo shows here not only feature traditional sumo matches, but also a fusion of music and light effects that allow the audience to fully experience the dynamism in a delightful atmosphere.

This period-limited sumo experience program is a perfect chance to learn about sumo through live demonstrations by former professional sumo wrestlers. This 90-minute program is conducted entirely in English.

After a hands-on sumo practice experience, you can enjoy an authentic chanko hotpot made by a former sumo wrestler (one serving per person). Chanko hotpot is a hearty, nutrient-rich meal traditionally eaten by sumo wrestlers, featuring a variety of meat and vegetables cooked together in a flavorful broth.

From the sumo training to the chanko hotpot, this 90-minute special program offers a premium, unforgettable experience filled with unique cultural moments.

The following are the details of the program.

Grand sumo matches are also available in Japan, but the dates and locations are limited, making it difficult to watch at the right time during your trip. In this case, THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA is a regular facility where visitors can enjoy a powerful sumo show by former sumo wrestlers along with a bento box which is part of Japanese culture.

THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA is highly recommended for visitors who are encountering sumo for the first time, as it combines traditional sumo with entertaining contents, all of which are explained in English by the commentator.
The show begins with glittering lights, powerful music, and exciting performances by sumo wrestlers, as if taking the audience back to the world 1500 years ago. It is not only a visual performance, but also gives the audience a sense of the depth of sumo culture.

The sumo show here is based on traditional Japanese elements and combines light and sound effects in order to create a particular atmosphere.

All wrestlers are former sumo professionals and their power is exceptional.

The modern stage performance together with traditional sumo movements draws the audience into a different world.

(1) Learn about Sumo in a more relaxing way

There is no need to worry even if you know nothing about sumo. Before the real match begins, the MC will explain the basic rules and techniques in an amusing way with sumo wrestlers showing the audience examples by themselves.
The sumo ring (dohyo) has been designed to be the same size as in grand sumo matches. Likewise, the sumo wrestlers are also experienced professionals. Whether it is the first time to watch or not, the audience can easily grasp the highlights and enjoy the matches to the fullest.

Usual practice and techniques are displayed in detail.

Even the basic rules are explained in an interesting way so as to draw you into the fun sumo world.

Check out the cute side of those big guys!

(2)Feel the power of Sumo up close

The essence of sumo shows is the match, in which former sumo wrestlers stand in front of the audience and sweat their hearts out during fierce confrontations, allowing the audience to experience the fascination of sumo firsthand. Another wonderful thing is that everyone can cheer for their favorite wrestler and enjoy the delightful atmosphere at the sumo hall!

All of the wrestlers have grand sumo experience which assures you exciting and fierce matches.

Sometimes the sumo techniques introduced before will be used, leaving a stronger impression on the audience!

With the audience’s cheers, the venue gets more and more heated and will reach the climax.

(3) An unforgettable experience of challenging wrestlers

At THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA, the audience can actually step into the sumo ring and challenge the wrestlers. Lucky audience picked by lottery can dress up in sumo costume and try to be a wrestler themselves. Also, those who are not chosen can still take a commemorative photo with the wrestlers and leave a precious memory.

During the intermission, audience who wish to do the sumo challenge will be entered into a drawing, and the winner will be allowed to go on stage!

It is a perfect chance to feel the difference of boy size and know the power on your own.

Wearing sumo costumes and competing with real sumo wrestlers with all your might is such a thrilling experience.

Don’t miss the last group photo time for a great trip memory!

THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA is located on the 8th floor of Namba Parks in the center of Osaka.
・Directly connected to Nankai Electric Railway [Namba Station] Central/South Exit
7 mins walk from Osaka Metro Midosuji Line [Namba Station] Minami (South) Exit
・8 mins walk from Osaka Metro Sennichimae Line [Namba Station]
・9 mins walk from Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line [Namba Station] North Exit
・9 mins walk from Hanshin Namba Line [Osaka-Namba Station] East Exit
・9 mins walk from Kintetsu Namba Line (Nara Line) [Osaka-Namba Station] East Exit
・ 11 mins walk from JR Kansai Line (Yamatoji Line) [JR-Namba Station] (OCAT) North Exit

Not only is it easily accessible, but there are plenty of places in the surrounding area that are worth visiting when you come to Osaka. Take some time to enjoy shopping and trying a variety of gourmet foods at the more than 200 stores in Namba Parks. Also, don’t forget to pick up an original sumo-themed souvenir at the gift shop by the entrance of THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA.
If you are going for the first time, we recommend you to go early since Namba Parks is so big that you may get lost.

Namba Parks is connected with Nankai Electric Railway Namba Station, making it convenient to access.

There are many stores and restaurants in Namba Parks, so you can enjoy shopping before or after the sumo show.

At the entrance is a gift shop where you can find all kinds of original sumo goods.

Each show at THE SUMO HALL NICHIGAKUZA OSAKA is performed in English, except on Tuesdays and during the New Year holidays. Visitors can enter one hour before the show starts, which gives visitors time to shop for some sumo and Osaka souvenirs at the gift shop while waiting for the show to start. Also, there is a bar counter where you can drink sake or beer.

What’s more, a rakugo storyteller will give a pre-show speech before the performance starts, so early arrival is recommended.

● Performance Schedule
2 shows per day
(1) 17:00 Open / 18:00 Start
(2) 20:00 Open / 21:00 Start
*When there is only one show a day, the door opens at 18:00 and starts at 19:00.
For more detailed information on the performance schedule, please refer to the official website.

●Closed

Every Tuesday, New Year Holidays (Dec 31 and Jan 1)

Prices are the same whether purchases in advance or on the performance day. All seats face the ring and are laid out for easy viewing, regardless of the front S seats or the casual B seats. If you are going with a group of 2~4 people, BL(Balcony) seats are highly recommended.

●Ticket Price
S seat—JPY16,000
A seat—JPY12,500 (Child JPY9,000)
B seat—JPY9,500 (Child JPY7,000)
BL seat—JPY 50,000 (up to 4 people)
*All price shown are tax included
*Child price is for 3~12 years old (The contents of the bento boxes are different. If you wish to receive the same bento box as an adult, please purchase an adult ticket)
*Under 3 years old—free admission if seated on the lap.

All tickets include one drink with one bento box, or one child bento box or a snack bag. Ticket with a bento box needs a reservation by 10am 3 days before the performance date.
There are other bento options such as Premium Bento (+JPY4,000), Halal Bento or Vegan Bento (+JPY2,000). The culture of eating bento while enjoying a sumo show is one of the traditions that has continued since the Edo period.

THE SUMO HALL Nichirakuza OSAKA is the newest entertainment spot in Osaka. Knowing and experiencing sumo culture will make your stay in Osaka Japan more enjoyable and unforgettable.

▼Check these articles▼
Stay Time is also fulfilled! Recommended hotels to enjoy Osaka more!
Highlights and things to do at teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka