Sumo Practice Session at the Shikoroyama Stable

Sumo Practice Session at the Shikoroyama Stable

Experiencing Sumo in Japan

Sumo is one of Japan’s most recognisable sports, and attending a practice session offers visitors an introduction to its traditions. Watching wrestlers train provides an opportunity to appreciate the strength, technique and discipline involved, while learning about a distinctive part of Japanese life.

Visiting a Sumo Stable

We visited Shikoroyama Stable on a guided tour. Joining an organised visit gave us access to a training session and helped us understand what we were watching. Stables are places of serious training, so visitors must respect the wrestlers and follow the rules carefully.

During our visit, talking was not permitted inside the building while practice was underway. Sitting quietly allowed us to observe the session without interrupting the wrestlers’ concentration.

For around an hour, we watched them go through their paces, practising wrestling techniques and working on their skills. Seeing the training up close offered a different perspective from watching a competitive bout. The repetition highlighted how much preparation lies behind each encounter in the ring.

Sumo’s History and Cultural Importance

Sumo has a history stretching back more than 1,500 years, with origins reflected in Japanese myths and legends. Early forms were associated with religious and agricultural ceremonies, including rituals concerning the harvest. Sumo later became part of imperial court life and was also practiced by warriors.

During the Edo period, professional wrestling developed, and organised events became popular entertainment. This period helped establish the foundations of modern professional sumo.

Its importance to Japanese culture extends beyond competition. Ceremonies, traditional clothing, distinctive hairstyles and formal ring entrances preserve customs passed down through generations. Together, these elements make sumo a living connection with Japan’s past.

A Memorable Cultural Experience

Our tour included an explanation of sumo’s history, its cultural significance and how the stables operate. This background gave greater meaning to the practice session and helped place the wrestlers’ routines in context.

Whether you already enjoy sumo or are discovering it for the first time, visiting a sumo practice session is a rewarding experience. We found it an engaging way to learn about the sport and appreciate its traditions.

To find out more about Japan, see our blogs here