The Way of Sumo: Show, Try Sumo & Chanko Hot Pot review
What it is
A smaller, intimate sumo show at a dedicated venue near Kansai Airport. The base ticket gives you an exhibition show and a chance to try a few sumo moves yourself. Food and other experiences are add-on options, not included. If you choose the meal plans, you stay longer and have a fuller day.
The experience
You arrive at Ochi Izumibeya, a small training-style venue about five minutes from the airport. A former rikishi runs the show. You watch live exhibition bouts, learn basic sumo moves (shiko, pushing), and get hands-on time trying them yourself. The group is small, so it’s more personal than the flagship. If you’ve added the chanko nabe plan, you’ll eat traditional sumo stew together. The wagyu sukiyaki option is more upscale. Optional: try on a kimono and haori, get a photo with the rikishi.
What reviewers say
Hui found it “informative and interactive, we all loved it, young and old alike.” Tiffany said it was “amazing and fun, learned how much training it takes.” Stephanie called it “the best, everyone so friendly.” Joy loved learning the sumo moves; the wrestlers were fun. Deniz described it as “one of the best experiences in Japan, worth every penny, laughed so much.” The caveat: some reviewers booked the base price expecting food to be included and felt misled. That’s why I’m explicit: meals are add-ons.
What works
- Cheapest entry price: $56
- Small group and intimate venue; former wrestler runs it
- Hands-on sumo training (not just watching)
- Great if you want photos and memories
- Excellent value if you add a meal plan
- Handy location: 5 min from KIX airport (arrival/departure day stop)
Worth knowing
- Base ticket is show + try only; no meal included — that’s add-on
- Some reviewers expected lunch/dinner included and felt disappointed
- If no meal add-on, the experience is shorter (~1.5 hours)
- Meals not included unless you select and pay for them
- 4.5 rating reflects meal-expectation mismatch
If you skip the meal, plan your dinner elsewhere — this show alone is ~1.5 hours. The chanko nabe or wagyu add-on transforms it into a full half-day. Confirm your add-ons when booking.
Who it’s for
Budget-conscious visitors who want to try sumo moves hands-on. People arriving at or leaving from KIX (it’s perfectly timed for a last-day experience). Small groups and couples. If you want a meal pre-included and don’t mind paying more, the wagyu experience at $111 includes a full dinner. If you prefer central Namba without add-ons, the flagship is $59 and clearer on inclusions.
Other experiences to consider
Highest ratedOsaka: Sumo Experience with Live Show & Audience Challenge
Front-row + wagyuOsaka Sumo Show with Front-Row Seating & Wagyu Sukiyaki
Central NambaOsaka: Sumo Show with Bento or Snack at Sumo Hall Hirakuza
Frequently asked questions
Is the meal included in the $56 price?
No. The base ticket is $56 for the show and the chance to try sumo moves. Chanko nabe, wagyu sukiyaki, kimono, and photos are all add-on options. Be clear on what you’re paying for when you book.
How much do the meal add-ons cost?
The listing doesn’t specify exact prices, but GetYourGuide will show you available options when you book. Chat with the operator to confirm.
Why is the rating 4.5 when other tours are higher?
Reviewers who added meals loved the full experience. But some booked the base ticket expecting food and felt let down. That’s reflected in the 4.5. If you know what you’re getting (show + try sumo, meals optional), it’s a strong value.