January 11, 2026 at 8:40 am
Event date:
January 25, 2026 at 6:00 am
Event end:

History

The January Grand Sumo Tournament, known as Hatsu Basho, is the first of the six official Grand Sumo tournaments held annually in Japan. Taking place at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo, it has a rich tradition dating back centuries and is a highlight in the sumo calendar.

Are you Visiting Japan soon?

Let us make your trip effortless. From tickets and hotels to transport and local guides, we arrange everything for you or your group. Whether it’s a music festival in Tokyo or a business conference in Osaka, our custom travel service ensures you enjoy the event stress-free.

Contact Jasumo Now →

Sumo, Japan’s national sport, combines rigorous athleticism, ritual, and culture. The Hatsu Basho is particularly significant as it sets the stage for the rankings (banzuke) of wrestlers for the year. Fans from across the country and abroad gather to witness the ceremonial and competitive aspects of sumo, from the stomping rituals (shiko) to the powerful bouts in the ring.

Over the years, the tournament has evolved into a major cultural event, offering not only thrilling sports action but also a deep dive into Japanese tradition, making it an unmissable experience for visitors in Tokyo.

Overview

The January Grand Sumo Tournament 2026 will be held from Sunday, January 11, 2026, to Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo. Tickets for the tournament typically go on sale in early December 2025, with sumo rankings (banzuke) announced around December 22, 2025.

Each day features a structured schedule of matches, starting with lower divisions in the morning and culminating in top division (Makuuchi) matches in the late afternoon. Visitors can expect 15 days of exciting sumo action, ceremonial rituals, and a lively arena atmosphere.

The tournament is perfect for both sumo enthusiasts and first-time spectators, providing insight into Japan’s sporting traditions, ceremonial rituals, and cultural heritage.

Schedule & Tickets Information:

These tickets are sold out on the official platforms, but they are still available through trusted resale marketplaces in Japan. We offer affordable pricing to foreigners.

Below are the complete details for the event, including dates, venues, seat types, and other important ticket information. Once you’ve reviewed everything, simply contact us with your preferred ticket selection, and we’ll assist you in securing it.

Please note: After receiving your request, we will confirm the current availability in the resale market and provide you with the best options. Rest assured, we only use reliable and verified sellers in Japan to ensure you receive authentic tickets safely and smoothly.

Date	Venue	Seat Types
2026/1/11 (Sun) Day 1, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/12 (Mon) Day 2, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/13 (Tue) Day 3, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/14 (Wed) Day 4, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/15 (Thu) Day 5, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/16 (Fri) Day 6, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/17 (Sat) Day 7, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/18 (Sun) Day 8, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/19 (Mon) Day 9, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/20 (Tue) Day 10, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/21 (Wed) Day 11, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/22 (Thu) Day 12, 08:45 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/23 (Fri) Day 13, 10:30 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/24 (Sat) Day 14, 10:30 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat
2026/1/25 (Sun) Final Day, 10:00 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Single S-seat, Single A-seat, Single B-seat, Single C-seat

Highlights

15 days of sumo action, from lower divisions to top-tier matches.
Experience the entrance ceremonies, rituals, and traditional bow-twirling.
Witness Japan’s top sumo wrestlers in intense matches.
Iconic venue: Ryogoku Kokugikan, the heart of professional sumo in Tokyo.
Opportunity to enjoy food stalls, souvenirs, and sumo-themed merchandise at the arena.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

Immerse yourself in Japan’s national sport and centuries-old tradition.
Experience a unique cultural event combining sports, ceremony, and rituals.
Perfect for both first-time visitors and avid sumo fans.
Convenient Tokyo location with easy access to public transport and nearby attractions.
Multi-day event allows for flexible planning and day-trip or overnight stays.

If you are coming to Japan or already in Japan, and need any type of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings — just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.

Schedule

Dates: Sunday, January 11, 2026 – Sunday, January 25, 2026
Daily Schedule (Approximate):

Lower Divisions (Jonokuchi, Jonidan, Sandanme, Makushita): 8:40 AM
Jūryō Division (Second Highest): 2:30 PM
Makuuchi Division Entrance Ceremony: 3:45 PM
Top Division Matches: ~4:10 PM
End of Day Ceremony (bow-twirling): ~6:00 PM

The action builds throughout the day, so arriving early allows spectators to enjoy lower division bouts, ceremonial traditions, and the full sumo experience.

Pricing

Ticket prices vary depending on seat type:

Arena Floor Seats: Premium seating close to the ring
Box Seats: Private areas for small groups
Upper Stands: More affordable viewing with good overall visibility

Advance tickets are available starting Saturday, December 6, 2025.

Location

Venue: Ryogoku Kokugikan, 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan

How to Get There:

By Train: A short walk from Ryogoku Station (JR Sobu Line or Toei Oedo Line).
By Subway: Accessible via Toei Oedo Line or nearby stations on JR lines.
By Car: Limited parking; public transport is recommended due to high visitor volume.

Accommodation Options

Visitors can stay in Sumida City or central Tokyo, with options ranging from business hotels to mid-range and luxury accommodations. Staying nearby allows easy access to the tournament and Tokyo attractions such as Asakusa, Ueno, and Akihabara.

Average nightly rates range from ¥8,000 to ¥25,000, depending on hotel type and booking time. Early reservations are recommended due to high demand during the tournament.

FAQs

When is the January Grand Sumo Tournament 2026 held?

From Sunday, January 11, 2026, to Sunday, January 25, 2026 at Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo.

When do tickets go on sale?

Advance tickets are scheduled to go on sale Saturday, December 6, 2025.

What is the daily schedule for matches?

Lower divisions start at 8:40 AM, Jūryō Division at 2:30 PM, Makuuchi entrance at 3:45 PM, top matches ~4:10 PM, with the end-of-day ceremony around 6:00 PM.

Where is Ryogoku Kokugikan located?

In Sumida City, Tokyo, near Ryogoku Station, accessible by JR and subway lines.

Are there different seating options?

Yes, including arena floor seats, box seats, and upper stands, with prices varying based on location and amenities.

Planning a Group Trip to Japan?

From corporate teams to friends traveling together, we create tailor-made travel packages. Enjoy VIP access, curated itineraries, and full support from our local experts. Tell us your plans, and we’ll handle the rest.

Contact Jasumo Now →