
Ryogoku Tokyo
Ryogoku: Tokyo's sumo heartland, blending ancient wrestling traditions with historical museums and hearty cuisine.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Grand Sumo Tournaments

Ryogoku Tokyo
Best Time
Grand Sumo Tournaments

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ryogoku: Tokyo's sumo heartland, blending ancient wrestling traditions with historical museums and hearty cuisine.
"Experience the thrill of sumo and step back in time at the Edo-Tokyo Museum."

🎟️ Book Sumo Tickets Early
Grand Sumo Tournament tickets sell out fast! Book months in advance for the best seats.
🍲 Try Chanko Nabe
Don't leave Ryogoku without tasting this hearty sumo stew. Many restaurants offer it.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sumo Museum
Ryogoku Kokugikan
Dive into the rich history and traditions of sumo wrestling, from ancient rituals to modern champions.

Edo-Tokyo Museum
Near Ryogoku Station
Step back in time and explore a meticulously recreated Edo-period town and learn about Tokyo's transformation.

Chanko Nabe Restaurants
Various eateries in Ryogoku
Savor the hearty, protein-rich stew that fuels sumo wrestlers, a must-try culinary experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sumo Spirit
Beyond the Ring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Sumo Tickets Early
Grand Sumo Tournament tickets sell out fast! Book months in advance for the best seats.
🍲 Try Chanko Nabe
Don't leave Ryogoku without tasting this hearty sumo stew. Many restaurants offer it.
🚶♀️ Walk from Asakusa
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Sumida River from Asakusa to Ryogoku, passing Tokyo Skytree.
🏺 Pottery Class Fun
Consider a pottery class for a unique, hands-on cultural experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Sumo Tickets Early
Grand Sumo Tournament tickets sell out fast! Book months in advance for the best seats.
🍲 Try Chanko Nabe
Don't leave Ryogoku without tasting this hearty sumo stew. Many restaurants offer it.
🚶♀️ Walk from Asakusa
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Sumida River from Asakusa to Ryogoku, passing Tokyo Skytree.
🏺 Pottery Class Fun
Consider a pottery class for a unique, hands-on cultural experience.
🏨 Hotel Near Station
APA Hotel Ryogoku Eki Tower is recommended for its convenience and comfort.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ryogoku is celebrated for its deep connection to sumo wrestling and its rich historical offerings, particularly the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Visitors praise the authentic culinary experience of Chanko Nabe and the convenience of hotels like APA Hotel Ryogoku Eki Tower. However, some find the area less vibrant outside of sumo events and can be surprised by the compact size of hotel rooms.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ryogoku is easily accessible via the JR Sobu Line (Ryogoku Station) and the Toei Oedo Line (Ryogoku Station). The Sobu Line is a direct line from major hubs like Shinjuku and Tokyo Station. For those coming from Asakusa, a pleasant walk across the Sumida River offers views of Tokyo Skytree.
Ryogoku Station can get busy, especially during sumo tournament times or rush hour. The Sobu Local Line is generally considered less crowded than some other major lines during peak commuting times.
Yes, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the Sumida River from Asakusa to Ryogoku. This route offers views of Tokyo Skytree and is a pleasant way to experience the area.
For commuting, consider neighborhoods on a direct line to Ryogoku, such as those along the JR Sobu Line. This minimizes transfers and can reduce travel time.
While not unique to Ryogoku itself, the departure melodies at Ryogoku Station on the Sobu Local Line are a distinctive feature for train enthusiasts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Grand Sumo Tournament are highly sought after and should be purchased well in advance through official channels like the Japan Sumo Association website or authorized ticket vendors.
The Grand Sumo Tournaments, known as 'basho', are held in Tokyo in January, May, and September. Planning your visit around these months offers a chance to experience the sport live.
The Sumo Museum, located within the Ryogoku Kokugikan, typically opens around 10 AM and closes by 4:30 PM, with the last entry usually at 4 PM. It's advisable to check the official schedule as hours can vary.
Yes, there is a modest entrance fee for the Edo-Tokyo Museum. It's a worthwhile investment for the extensive exhibits and historical recreations it offers.
Yes, pottery classes are available in the Ryogoku area. Some are even promoted on platforms like TikTok, offering a fun, hands-on cultural activity.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Ryogoku offers the Edo-Tokyo Museum for history enthusiasts, numerous restaurants serving Chanko Nabe, and opportunities for unique experiences like pottery classes.
Chanko Nabe is a hearty, protein-rich stew traditionally eaten by sumo wrestlers to gain weight and strength. It's a delicious and filling meal, often featuring various meats, vegetables, and tofu.
Many restaurants in Ryogoku specialize in Chanko Nabe. Exploring the streets around Ryogoku Station will reveal numerous options, often with a traditional sumo atmosphere.
Ryogoku offers unique photographic opportunities, from the imposing Ryogoku Kokugikan (sumo arena) to the historical exhibits at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. The Sumida River area also provides scenic views.
While not as prominent as in other Tokyo districts, you can find shops selling sumo-related merchandise and traditional crafts. The Donguri Kyowakoku (Ghibli store) is also nearby in Sumida City.
🎫 🏨 Accommodation
The APA Hotel Ryogoku Eki Tower is frequently recommended for its convenient location near the station and comfortable amenities.
Hotel prices in Ryogoku can vary, but options like the APA Hotel offer a good balance of quality and affordability, especially considering its prime location.
Rooms in hotels like the APA Hotel Ryogoku Eki Tower can be compact, which is typical for Tokyo. It's advisable to manage expectations regarding room size.
Ryogoku's excellent transport links via the JR Sobu Line and Toei Oedo Line make it a convenient base for exploring various parts of Tokyo.
Hotels in Ryogoku generally offer standard amenities. Some, like the APA Hotel, are noted for providing a surprisingly luxurious feel despite being budget-friendly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to dining, Chanko Nabe is a hearty meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family, though it might be a bit rich for some. Look for restaurants that offer a more family-friendly atmosphere. The walk along the Sumida River is also a pleasant, low-key activity for families, offering open space and scenic views.
🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Beyond Chanko Nabe, Ryogoku offers a taste of traditional Japanese dining. Look for local izakayas and restaurants that serve classic dishes. The area's proximity to the Sumida River also means you might find establishments offering fresh seafood. For those interested in a unique experience, a pottery class often includes a meal, combining a creative activity with a delicious dining experience.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
To truly immerse yourself, consider attending a Grand Sumo Tournament if your visit coincides with one of the January, May, or September 'basho'. Even if you can't catch a match, the atmosphere around the Ryogoku Kokugikan during these times is electric. Exploring the neighborhood, you'll also feel the historical weight of the many sumo stables (heya) that are still active in the area, contributing to Ryogoku's unique cultural identity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Sumo: Ryogoku Kokugikan
Beyond the tournaments, Ryogoku's identity is deeply intertwined with the sumo lifestyle. You'll find many sumo stables (heya) in the vicinity, where wrestlers train and live. While these are private residences, their presence contributes to the district's unique atmosphere. The area is also dotted with restaurants that specialize in Chanko Nabe, the hearty, nutritious stew that forms the staple diet of sumo wrestlers. Dining on Chanko Nabe is an essential Ryogoku experience, allowing visitors to taste the very food that fuels these incredible athletes.
A Journey Through Time: Edo-Tokyo Museum
The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including urban development, daily life, culture, and technology. Interactive displays and detailed models bring history to life, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages. It’s a fantastic way to understand the historical context of Tokyo and appreciate its remarkable journey. The museum's location, easily accessible from Ryogoku Station, makes it a convenient addition to any Ryogoku itinerary.
Creative Pursuits: Pottery and Riverside Walks
For a more relaxed pace, the Sumida River offers beautiful walking paths. A popular route is the walkway from Asakusa to Tokyo Skytree, which passes through or near Ryogoku. This scenic stroll provides lovely views of the river, the city skyline, and the iconic Skytree, making it a perfect way to enjoy the urban landscape and connect with the area's natural beauty.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit