Sumo training in a Heya

The sumo is not only the national sport of Japan, but also one of the favorites for tourists travelling to Japan. But there are not always official tournaments when you're on a trip to Japan. Therefore, one of the most demanded options is to visit a heya and watch the live sumo training. The heya are where many fighters live and, until they reach a certain level, they share even a bedroom. There is also a number of tasks to do, cleaning, dohyo preparation, food preparation and dinner, etc. All this under the attentive look of the oyakata and his assistants, former retired fighters who bring their experience and knowledge. And before you enjoy a training you have to choose which heya you are going to visit. The first thing to know is that all are located in Tokyo or its metropolitan area. In fact, the vast majority are located in the vicinity of the Ryogoku district, where there is also the Kokugikan pavilion, a true sumo coliseum in Japan. You have to keep in mind, yes, that some heya are very closed when admitting foreigners to training. Others, on the other hand, are very receptive and do not pose any problems. Among the receptives we can quote the Kise-beya, Oguruma-beya, Onomatsu-beya, Kokonoe-beya, Tomozuna-beya or Sadogatake-beya, although the latter is far away from Ryogoku. In any case, go the day you go, it is essential to call the previous day by phone and advance your interest in visiting them the next day. This way they'll confirm if it's possible or if there's any other day that's better. As most people only speak Japanese, if you do not know the language it is recommended to request at the hotel where you stay to call for you. So you'll know for sure how long you can go and if you're going to be well received. In the event that the chosen heya makes you any impediment or does not have any training, choose another and repeat the process. .

Γεωγραφικό πλάτος:35.684072·Γεωγραφικό μήκος:139.746094