What this is
The Autumn Sumo Exhibition Tour (Jungyo) is a regional touring program where professional sumo wrestlers from Japan's top divisions travel outside Tokyo to perform exhibition matches, training demonstrations, and fan interaction events. These tours have been a tradition for over a century, bringing sumo culture to communities across Japan who cannot easily access the formal Tokyo tournaments. The Kochi stop brings grand champion-level rikishi and rising stars to Shikoku, offering rare access to the ancient sport's rituals, techniques, and personalities. Unlike the high-stakes honbasho tournaments held six times a year in major cities, jungyo events carry a more relaxed and festive atmosphere, often including autograph sessions and photo opportunities with wrestlers.
Who should go
Sports enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and families will all find something to enjoy at this accessible and entertaining event. The atmosphere blends athletic competition with theatrical spectacle, as wrestlers demonstrate training techniques, perform ceremonial rituals, and engage directly with the crowd in ways rarely seen at formal tournaments. It is an especially rewarding experience for first-time sumo viewers, as the relaxed jungyo format makes the sport's traditions easier to absorb and appreciate. Arrive early to catch morning practice sessions (asageiko), which often offer unfiltered, up-close views of wrestlers training before the main program begins.
Good to know
Tickets for sumo jungyo events in Japan are typically sold through eplus.jp or pia.jp, both of which accept foreign credit cards; convenience store pickup at Lawson or FamilyMart is the most reliable option for visitors without a Japanese delivery address. Kochi City Cultural Hall is a mid-sized regional venue, so seating is more intimate than a Tokyo tournament — this works in your favour for sightlines and atmosphere. Arrive at least an hour before the listed start time to catch asageiko (morning practice), which is often the highlight for sumo fans and is not always advertised prominently. Cash is strongly recommended for any in-venue purchases including bento boxes, official merchandise, and wrestler fan goods (uchiwa, photos). Photography policies at jungyo events are generally more relaxed than at honbasho tournaments, but always check for any restrictions posted at the venue on the day.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.