Sumo wrestling, how far in advance do they sell out?

General Answer

Sumo tickets are extremely popular, especially for the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournaments (January, May, and September at Ryogoku Kokugikan). Tickets can sell out within hours of release, particularly for weekends and high-demand seats.

Tickets typically go on sale about two months before the tournament, and you can purchase them through:

• Official Sumo Association website
• Ticket agencies like Ticket Pia and Lawson Ticket
• Resale platforms (for official cancellations)

My Opinion / Honest Answer

If you want ringside seats (sand seats) or premium box seats, you need to buy tickets as soon as sales open. General seats can last longer but still sell quickly. If tickets are sold out, you can:

• Try same-day tickets (limited and require early queuing).
• Look for tour packages (some travel agencies include tickets).
• Check resale tickets (some cancellations may become available).

If you struggle to get tickets in Tokyo, try tournaments in Osaka, Nagoya, or Fukuoka, where demand is slightly lower.