Asakusa is a district in Tokyo renowned for its historic charm and it’s where you can find Senso-ji, the oldest temple of the city. This area is now home to a dining experience like no other. Introducing the latest addition to its vibrant culinary scene: a sumo-themed restaurant that promises not just a meal, but an unforgettable cultural journey.
Located amidst the bustling streets of Asakusa, this new dining establishment pays homage to Japan’s ancient sport of sumo wrestling in a unique and immersive way.
Inspired by the rich traditions and rituals of sumo, the restaurant offers patrons a chance to savor delectable cuisine while immersing themselves in the fascinating world of sumo.
So if you missed the sumo grand tournaments in Tokyo but you still want to see sumo during your trip, visiting Asakusa Sumo Club can be an excellent choice. Let’s introduce this very special restaurant in this article and explain how it works.
Upon entering the restaurant, guests are immediately enveloped in an ambiance that transports them to the heart of a sumo arena. From the decor to the music and even the staff attire, every aspect has been meticulously crafted to evoke the spirit of sumo wrestling.
The reception staff will welcome you as soon as you enter the restaurant and they check your tickets. When everything is done, you will enter the dining area that looks exactly like a sumo ring.
You will be seated by the staff and the dining experience can now start.
Of course, no visit to a sumo restaurant would be complete without indulging Chanko Nabe, the hearty stew beloved by sumo wrestlers for its nourishing qualities.
Chanko Nabe stands as a culinary emblem of sumo wrestling, renowned not only for its delicious flavors but also for its role in sustaining the formidable athletes of this ancient sport. This hot pot dish is a cornerstone of sumo wrestlers’ diets, crafted to provide ample nutrition and energy.
Brimming with an assortment of fresh vegetables, tender meats, and savory broth, Chanko Nabe offers a comforting and satisfying dining experience. Its communal nature fosters camaraderie and togetherness, echoing the close-knit bonds formed within the world of sumo.
As you gather around the bubbling pot, savoring each spoonful of this nourishing stew, you’re not just enjoying a meal – you’re partaking in a tradition that spans centuries, steeped in the rich heritage of Japan’s iconic sport.
In addition to Chanko Nabe, you will also be served a bowl of Edamame, Karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and Inari sushi (rice covered by tofu skin). And you can get unlimited free refill of Karaage and Inari sushi if you are still hungry.
You can order the first drink for free and the following ones will be available at extra costs. There’s also a free dessert included for each meal.
The show starts with a Kabuki-style traditional performance that lasts around 10 to 15 minutes. After that, the stars of the day make their entrance! 2 Sumo wrestlers will come into the ring and they will start to introduce their sport and the basic rules. They will also explain how they train every day.
All sumo wrestlers here are former rikishi (sumo wrestlers) or current sumo wrestler students. They are quite impressive and a bit intimidating but they are actually super friendly!
Throughout the evening, the skilled sumo wrestlers grace the stage, captivating audiences with their impressive displays of strength, agility, and tradition. It’s an electrifying spectacle that adds an extra layer of excitement to the dining experience.
But wait, there’s more!
You can actually challenge them and experience a sumo fight!
For those seeking a truly immersive experience, the restaurant also offers interactive activities that allow guests to try their hand at sumo wrestling under the guidance of experienced instructors. It’s a fun and memorable way to gain insight into the rigorous training regimen of sumo wrestlers while forging unforgettable memories with friends and family.
Please note that these challenge is not mandatory. If you are interested to participate, just raised your hand when they ask who want to join the challenge and you will be guided to another room.
First, you will wear a very funny sumo costume that will make you look like a real sumo wrestlers. After that, you will enter the fight ring and you will be able to challenge one of the 2 sumo wrestlers.
Don’t worry, they will not fight with full power and it’s more like a fun fight that a real battle. But I recommend you to try to push them as much as you can. Believe me, they will not move at all and it quite impressive. The challenge is a really good opportunity to witness and feel the real power of a sumo wrestlers. They are not fat, they are full of muscles!
Stay until the end of the show as you will have the chance to take pictures with the sumo wrestlers. They will print the picture for you in just few minutes and you will get back home with a very nice souvenir and a lot of good memories.
You will also receive a small additional souvenir with the picture at the end of the show.
Make sure you also check out their shop. They have very cute sumo-themed products that you can buy if you want another souvenir of this great experience! I loved this kawaii sumo figure that is chilling inside a wooden bath that is actually a sake cup called Masu.
To book your spot at this restaurant, you will need to reserve online in advance. This can be done via the official website of Asakusa Sumo Club. The website is available in English, you just need to change the language at the top right corner.
The location of the restaurant is few meters away from Don Quijote shop in Asakusa. Here’s the Google Map link.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of sumo wrestling or simply looking to experience something new and exciting, Asakusa Sumo Club restaurant promises an evening of unparalleled entertainment and culinary delight. So why not step into the ring and embark on a gastronomic adventure unlike any other?