2026 Autumn Sumo Exhibition Tour (Jungyo) – Kochi

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, allowing communities across Japan to experience sumo wrestling up close without traveling to the capital. 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 formal honbasho tournaments in Tokyo, jungyo events feature a more relaxed atmosphere with photo opportunities and autograph sessions.

Sports enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and families will appreciate the intimate scale and accessibility of this touring event compared to sold-out Tokyo tournaments. The atmosphere blends athletic competition with theatrical entertainment, as wrestlers demonstrate training techniques, perform ceremonial rituals, and engage directly with the audience. Arrive early to watch morning practice sessions (asageiko), which are often open to spectators and provide unfiltered views of the wrestlers' training regimen.