Kitakazefuji retires, Oyama takes over the name, and the sumo tournament is held 2026 in Japan Ticket

Overview

The historic Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo will host a deeply emotional and significant event in the sumo world: the retirement ceremony for Kitakazefuji (formerly known as Hokutofuji). This special day marks the conclusion of a powerful career characterized by a relentless fighting spirit and a deep respect for the traditions of Japan’s national sport. Fans will have the final opportunity to see Kitakazefuji in the ring for his last ceremonial matches before he transitions into a new chapter of leadership.

The center of the event is the Danpatsu-shiki, or hair-cutting ritual, where supporters, family members, and fellow wrestlers take turns snipping a single strand of his topknot. The ceremony culminates with the final cut by his stablemaster, symbolizing his official retirement from active competition. Following this, he will formally inherit the prestigious elder name Oyama, beginning his new responsibilities as a coach to guide the next generation of sumo talent.

Why Attend

• Witness the historic hair-cutting ceremony (Danpatsu-shiki) as Kitakazefuji has his topknot ceremonially removed in the center of the ring.
• Experience the emotional final bouts of a beloved rikishi at the legendary Kokugikan, the spiritual home of professional sumo in Japan.
• Participate in a rare cultural milestone as the champion officially takes over the esteemed Oyama name for his future coaching career.
• Enjoy a unique program of tribute matches and traditional rituals that celebrate the life and career of a modern sumo legend.
• Secure a meal and souvenir set to take home a physical memory of this once-in-a-lifetime transition within the sumo community.

Schedule & Tickets Information

Date	Venue	Seat Types
2026/05/30 (Sat) 11:30 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Chair seat S, Chair seat A, Chair seat B, Chair seat C, Wheelchair accessible seats, 1 person Mass Seat S, 1 person Mass Seat A, 1 person mass seat B, 2-person Square Seat B, Easy 2-person box seat, 3-person square seat A, 3-person mass seat B, 4-person square seat S, 4-person Mass Seat A, 4-person square seat B, 5-person box seat B, 6-person box seat A, 6-person box seat B, Meal/souvenir set ticket

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Faqs

What is the significance of the topknot-cutting ceremony?

The Danpatsu-shiki is the most important ritual in a wrestler’s retirement, symbolizing the end of their life as an active rikishi. Hundreds of people close to the wrestler take turns snipping a single hair until the stablemaster performs the final cut.

Can I enter the Kokugikan with only a meal and souvenir set ticket?

No, the meal and souvenir set ticket is an add-on voucher and does not grant admission to the arena. You must purchase a separate admission ticket for a specific seat type to enter the building and collect your items.

What is the difference between a Chair seat and a Mass seat?

Chair seats are Western-style seats located on the second floor, offering a clear view from above. Mass seats (Box seats) are traditional Japanese-style square areas on the first floor where spectators sit on cushions, providing a closer experience to the ring.

Are there specific arrival times for the retirement event?

The doors open at 10:30 AM, and the official program begins at 11:30 AM. It is highly recommended to arrive early to find your seat and enjoy the full schedule of tribute performances and the final ring-entry ceremonies.

Who will Kitakazefuji become after this ceremony?

Following the ritual, Kitakazefuji will officially be known as Oyama Oyakata. In this new role as a sumo elder, he will remain within the Japan Sumo Association to train and mentor younger wrestlers at his stable.