National Sport
Sumo (January, March, May, July, September, November)
Sumo wrestling, Japan’s ancient national sport, offers a glimpse into deep-rooted traditions.
Tournaments in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka showcase dramatic matches where wrestlers engage in ritualistic ceremonies, before facing off in intense bouts. From the salt-throwing rituals to the sheer power of the wrestlers, sumo is a must-see cultural spectacle.
Baseball (April–October)
As Japan’s most beloved sport, baseball delivers an electrifying atmosphere in Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka. Cheer alongside passionate fans, waving flags and singing team chants as the Yomiuri Giants, Hanshin Tigers, and other top teams take the field. From bento box meals to beer vendors weaving through the stands, the experience is as much about the vibrant culture as the game itself.
Rugby (February–May, September–November)
Since hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Japan has embraced rugby with fervour. Matches in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka feature top-tier domestic and international teams, with enthusiastic crowds creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Japan’s growing rugby culture, combined with its reputation for hospitality, makes attending a match a thrilling experience.
Note: Tickets for these events can be difficult to obtain. They sell out fast.
You will need to book your Japan trip before you can book match or tournament tickets. We recommend that you have a free day in your itinerary, where you can attend your sporting event, if you are able to buy a match ticket.
Please see below for how to purchase tickets.
Sumo Wrestling:
Tournament Schedule: Sumo tournaments are held six times a year, each lasting 15 days.
Advance Purchase Period: Tickets typically go on sale about a month before the tournament starts. For example, tickets for the March tournament (March 9–23, 2025) became available on February 8, 2025.
Purchasing Channels:
Official Vendor: Tickets can be purchased through the official sumo ticket website, Ticket Oosumo.
Authorized Agencies: Services like BuySumoTickets.com offer ticket purchasing assistance, especially useful for international visitors.
On-the-Day Purchases: Limited same-day tickets may be available at the venue; however, they often sell out quickly. Arriving early is essential if attempting to purchase these tickets.
Baseball (Nippon Professional Baseball - NPB):
Advance Purchase Period: Typically, tickets become available 1 to 2 months before the game date.
Purchasing Channels:
Official Team Websites: Many teams offer online ticket sales. Some websites provide English-language support, while others may require translation tools.
Ticketing Platforms: Services like Ticket Pia and E-plus facilitate ticket purchases, sometimes necessitating membership registration.
Convenience Stores: Tickets can often be bought at Japanese convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and Lawson.
On-the-Day Purchases: While same-day tickets might be available at stadiums, it’s advisable to buy in advance, especially for popular teams or high-demand games.
Rugby:
Advance Purchase Period: Ticket availability varies depending on the league and match significance. For major events like Top League matches or international tests, tickets often go on sale several months in advance.
Purchasing Channels:
• Official Rugby Websites: The Japan Rugby Football Union and individual team websites provide ticketing information and sales.
• Ticketing Platforms: Services such as Ticket Pia and Lawson Ticket are commonly used for rugby events.
• On-the-Day Purchases: For less prominent matches, tickets might be available at the stadium on game day. However, for high-profile games, it’s recommended to secure tickets in advance due to potential sell-outs.
General Recommendations:
Plan Ahead: For popular events or teams, purchasing tickets as early as possible increases the likelihood of securing preferred seating.
Utilise English-Friendly Services: Some official ticketing platforms offer English language support, which can simplify the purchasing process for non-Japanese speakers.
Be Aware of Sales Dates: Keep track of ticket release dates to ensure timely purchases, especially for events that sell out rapidly.