Namba, the bustling neighborhood in Osaka, the largest city in western Japan, is filled with great restaurants and trendy shops. On the 8th floor of Namba Parks, a large mall connected to Nankai Namba Station, you'll find Sumo Hall Hirakuza . This exciting show venue invites international visitors to fully enjoy the charms of sumo wrestling.

Sumo is one of the most popular traditional sports in Japan. The rules are simple: Two sumo wrestlers face off one-on-one in the ring, called the "dohyo," with the goal of pushing their opponents outside the ring or knocking them down. Thanks to this simplicity, skill and speed are paramount, and a single instant can mean all the difference. These exciting matches are full of energy and power.

Professional sumo matches fall into two categories: Grand Tournaments , which are large-scale competitions, and the Provincial Tour (Jungyo), which is held in various regions. Grand Tournaments are held only in odd-numbered months and take place in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya or Fukuoka, depending on the month. So, if you're coming to Japan in an even-numbered month or will be staying at a location far from the venue, you're out of luck. That's why Hirakuza , which allows visitors to watch sumo at any time of year, is such a revolutionary concept.

Hirakuza opened in May 2024 with the goal of sharing Japanese culture with foreign visitors by combining sumo, Japanese cuisine and entertainment all in one totally unique show venue.

The venue has approximately 180 seats in total, divided into four types: S, A, B, and BL. Seats are arranged around the ring, mimicking the traditional layout for sumo wrestling venues. Performances take place twice daily, at 6 PM and 9 PM, so you can choose a time that fits your schedule.
(*Schedules and contents of performances are subject to change. Check the official website for up-to-date information.)

The show is about 60 minutes long. After an opening act, the rules of sumo are explained in the introduction, followed by a demonstration featuring real, heart-pounding competition. In addition, guests can volunteer for a sumo experience and pose for commemorative photos. Shows are conducted in English, so even newcomers to the world of sumo can learn all they need to know.

(When you purchase tickets from this link, you'll receive a special bonus gift at the event.)

At Hirakuza, you can enjoy sumo shows and dive headfirst into Japanese culture. Let’s take a look at ten reasons why Hirakuza is tons of fun !

1. The cast are all former sumo wrestlers: Watch authentic sumo wrestling!

All performers at Hirakuza are former sumo wrestlers who trained at sumo "stables," the organizations where sumo wrestlers live and train. Because Hirakuza only features real athletes, the shows are bonified displays of the finely-honed skills and power that define sumo wrestling.

Many cast members have also worked as actors, including some who have appeared in major Hollywood films or the Netflix drama series, Sanctuary. They bring a distinctly theatrical flair to this entertaining show.

2. The extravagant wrestling ring immerses you in the action

The company that manages Hirakuza also operates Billboard Live in Japan, meaning they're experts in creating thrilling live entertainment. Behind the ring, a large screen showcases all the sumo action, which is heightened through theatrical sound, lighting, and video.

3. Cool opening act shows off another side of sumo

The show's opening act takes full advantage of the spectacular show venue. Inspired by the history of sumo, the act begins with the ring illuminated in a variety of colors, creating a fantastical, enchanting atmosphere.

Performers arrive in style, exuding a mystical aura that immerses the audience in the story of this ancient sport.

4. The introduction teaches you all you need to know about sumo traditions

Before the demonstration, you'll get an easy-to-follow explanation of sumo's rules and techniques. The hosts are all Osakan performers of "rakugo", a traditional form of Japanese comedy centered on telling humorous stories. These comedians are the perfect instructors for this hilarious yet informative sumo lesson. They even perform rakugo in English before the opening act, so don't miss it!

During the introduction, performers show off the most famous sumo moves. Some examples include "shiko," in which wrestlers raise their legs high in the air and stomp menacingly into the ring. "Suriashi" refers to walking in a squatted position to maintain stability. Exciting techniques like "oshidashi" (frontal push) or "uwatenage" (overarm throw) get the audience cheering before the matches have even begun.

Finally, they introduce some forbidden moves that are against the rules of sumo. The wrestlers re-enact these painful moves, like pulling the opponent's hair, with hilarious faces and dramatic hijinks.

5. An all-out battle right before your eyes: The authentic passion of real sumo!

After the unique introduction, the main tournament begins. The referee, called the "gyoji," is in charge of the proceedings and deciding the winner. Then the competitors appear, with hardened determination in their eyes, greeted by excited applause.

The tournament consists of four wrestlers competing in three one-on-one matches. They walk the perimeter of the ring until they are ready. Tension fills the air as they stand poised for the fight, staring each other down. The referee gives the signal to begin: "Hakkeyoi, nokotta!" Just like that, an intense battle unfolds. Both wrestlers aim to grab the "mawashi," or sumo belt, which gives them the leverage to perform powerful techniques.

Excitement in the audience reaches a fever pitch as the massive athletes move with surprising agility! Members of the crowd scream the names of their favorite wrestlers, cheering them on, and the entire venue comes alive with electric energy. The final match is full of white-knuckle tension as the heated tournament reaches its climax.

6. How strong are the wrestlers? Sumo experience in a sumo costume

After the matches conclude, the sumo experience begins. Participants can face off with their favorite wrestler from the day's demonstration.

After the opening act, the host will ask for participants for the sumo experience. This is a popular program, so don't hesitate if you want to join in.

The winning wrestler from the demonstration tournament will choose three participants at random via lottery. The lucky chosen few will go backstage, where they'll change into sumo suits. The audience cheers as they enter the ring and stare down their favorite wrestler. Then, the battle begins!

But it's barely a fight! The wrestler picked up the participant and carried them out of the ring like it was nothing. Only the strongest stand a chance at winning, so if you do get chosen, give it your all!

7. Take a commemorative photo, the perfect souvenir of your visit to Japan

After the show comes to a close, it's time to take some commemorative photos surrounded by all the performers from the show. Feel free to request certain poses, such as "harite" (slapping), or "shiko" (one leg in the air).

Photographs are taken in groups. Photos can be taken with your camera or phone so you can upload them to your socials right away.

8. Special bento boxes: Vegan and Halal options available, too!

Traditional Japanese bento boxes are served during the show's intermission. These are "intermission" bento boxes, which have a rich history in Japanese entertainment. The tradition of eating bento boxes during the intermission of a show comes from kabuki theatre, where audiences enjoyed food and drink while watching performances.
At Hirakuza , guests can enjoy Japan’s national sport, sumo, as well as this traditional meal that originates from a revered form of Japanese entertainment. Get a taste of sumo and Japanese bento culture at once with these beautifully arranged bentos featuring a variety of dishes.

The bento boxes feature generous portions of delicious dishes including Osakan staples like takoyaki (fried dumplings with bits of octopus) and five-ingredient rice. They also include favorites like yakitori chicken skewers and dashimaki tamago (savory-sweet omelets).

Upgrade to the high-end bento (+4,000 yen) from Nadaman , a beloved Japanese restaurant with a long history. This bento includes sushi rolls, dried tofu, simmered vegetables, and other uniquely Japanese dishes.

If you make a request in advance while securing your reservation, you can be served a vegan or halal bento instead. The vegan bento is prepared in a kitchen that has never handled animal products, while the Halal bento is prepared in a kitchen certified by the Japan Halal Foundation. (*Requests must be made by 10 AM three days prior to your visit.)

If you'd like a light snack instead, try the Hirakuza Snack Bag full of delicious treats emblematic of Osaka, like takoyaki-flavored snacks. (*If reservations are made after 10 AM three days prior to your visit, you cannot select a bento box, only the Hirakuza Snack Bag. Reservations for the show are still available after that point.)

9. Enjoy Japanese sake or beer while you watch

For alcohol connoisseurs, you can enjoy the show while sipping on a drink unique to Japan. You’ll receive a one-drink ticket when you enter and can order whatever you wish at the drink counter. The beer on offer is Asahi Super Dry from Asahi Beer, one of Japan's leading beverage manufacturers. Soft drinks are also available.

Speaking of famous Japanese drinks, make sure to try nihonshu, also known in English as sake. One of Japan's favorite brands of this rice-based alcohol is One Cup Ozeki.

10. Tons of original sumo merch and Osakan souvenirs on offer

The store by the entrance sells original Hirakuza goods, sumo-themed items, and Osakan souvenirs.

The original Hirakuza goods on offer include a box of chocolates shaped like the sumo ring and "masu," square wooden cups used for sake. Plus, you'll find many more sumo-related items, like cute magnets in the shape of sumo wrestlers or paper sumo toys.

Access
・From Shin-Osaka: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Namba Station (10-minute walk)

・From Kansai International Airport: Take the Nankai Railway Nankai Airport Express to Namba Station (3-minute walk)

・Take the Hanshin or Kintetsu Lines to Osaka-Namba Station (15-minute walk)

How to purchase tickets

* When you purchase tickets from this link, you'll receive a special bonus gift at the event.

If you wish to change your bento to a deluxe, vegan, or halal bento, please purchase your ticket from the above site first and then apply again.

Hirakuza's unforgettable entertainment show features former sumo wrestlers going head-to-head in captivating matches. With authentic bento boxes, sake, and fun souvenirs on offer, this is the ideal place to immerse in Japanese culture. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to get up close and personal with sumo!