Takarafuji retires and Kiriyama takes over the name at the Grand Sumo 2026 in Japan Ticket

Overview

The historic Kokugikan in Ryogoku, Tokyo, will host a deeply significant event in the world of professional sumo: the retirement ceremony for Takarafuji. This special occasion marks the conclusion of a distinguished career for the former Sekiwake, who was celebrated for his incredible durability and never missing a single match. The event serves as a formal transition as he steps into his new leadership role as a sumo elder under the name Kiriyama.

The heart of the ceremony is the Danpatsu-shiki, or hair-cutting ritual, where supporters, fellow wrestlers, and mentors take turns snipping a single strand of Takarafuji’s topknot. Beyond the emotional ceremony, attendees will enjoy a full day of traditional sumo entertainment, including special exhibition bouts featuring top-division stars, traditional sumo folk singing, and comedic sumo performances. It is a rare opportunity to experience the solemnity and celebration of a rikishi’s life journey within the sport’s most prestigious arena.

Why Attend

• Witness the historic hair-cutting ceremony (Danpatsu-shiki) of Takarafuji, a deeply emotional and significant ritual in a sumo wrestler’s life.
• Experience the unique tradition of watching sumo from the world-renowned Kokugikan arena in Tokyo, the spiritual home of the sport.
• Enjoy a full day of entertainment including special tournament matches and cultural performances exclusive to retirement ceremonies.
• Secure a meal and souvenir set to take home a physical memory of this once-in-a-lifetime transition for a legendary athlete.
• Celebrate the beginning of a new era as Takarafuji officially inherits the elder name Kiriyama to guide the next generation of wrestlers.

Schedule & Tickets Information

Date	Venue	Seat Types
2026/05/31 (Sun) 11:30 Start	Kokugikan (Tokyo)	Chair seat S, Chair seat A, Chair seat B, Chair seat C, Wheelchair seat, 1 person Mass Seat S, 1 person Mass Seat A, 1 person mass seat B, 1 person mass seat C, 2-person Square Seat B, 2-person mass seat C, Easy 2-person square seat C, 3-person square seat A, 3-person mass seat B, 3-person mass seat C, 4-person square seat S, 4-person Mass Seat A, 4-person square seat B, 5-person square seat B, 6-person box seat A, 6-person box seat B, 6-person box seat C, Meal and souvenir set exchange ticket

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Why Price is High on Jasumo Tickets

Jasumo Tickets provide Concierge Ticket Service assists international visitors in securing tickets that usually require many verifications. That’s why price is high compared to offical pricing. We offer:

• Applying and purchasing on your behalf
• Providing a Japanese address and phone number
• Handling all payment and confirmation steps within Japan
• Coordinating ticket issuance and hotel delivery or pickup before your arrival
• Offering full English-language support or in your lanauge throughout the process

We even offer more help in many cases, you will know them when you will buy ticket through our help.

Delivery Method & Time

We offer multiple delivery methods for your convenience:

• Electronic Ticket – Receive a digital ticket displaying a QR code for quick and easy entry.
• Paper Ticket – Have your ticket delivered to your preferred location (hotel, home, or Airbnb) via Japan Post.
• Convenience Store Pickup – Collect your ticket at convenience stores across Japan using a voucher number.
• Hand-Delivered Ticket – Your ticket will be personally delivered to your hotel by our responsible staff member.

You can contact us via our Contact Us page to confirm your delivery method and time if you want to know before purchase. But our team will quickly contact you after purchase to explain you about delivery method & time.

Note about Sold-out Tickets

If the tickets you want are showing sold out, there’s no need to worry. Many events still have seats available through trusted and secure resale marketplaces in Japan. These platforms often release last-minute or premium seats that aren’t available on official sites.

If you need help, just contact us with your ticket name, seat type, and preferred date. We’ll quickly check the resale options for you and provide clear details about pricing, availability, and delivery so you can get your tickets without stress.

Faqs

What exactly happens during the Danpatsu-shiki hair-cutting ceremony?

During the Danpatsu-shiki, several hundred guests including sponsors and fellow wrestlers take turns cutting a strand of the wrestler’s topknot. The ceremony culminates with the stablemaster making the final cut, symbolizing the wrestler’s official retirement and transition to civilian life.

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

No, the meal and souvenir set exchange ticket is not valid for admission to the arena. You must purchase a separate viewing ticket, such as a chair seat or mass seat, to enter the venue and use your exchange voucher.

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

Chair seats are standard Western-style stadium seating located on the second floor, offering a panoramic view. Mass seats (Box seats) are traditional Japanese-style square areas on the first floor where spectators sit on cushions on the floor, providing a more authentic experience closer to the ring.

Are there any age restrictions for children attending the retirement ceremony?

Children three years old and younger generally do not require a ticket if they sit on a parent’s lap and do not require their own seat. For older children or those needing their own space, a standard admission ticket must be purchased.

How long does the retirement event usually last?

The event typically begins in the morning around 11:30 and concludes in the late afternoon. It includes second-division matches, the lengthy hair-cutting ceremony, and final exhibition matches featuring top-division rikishi, offering a full day of cultural immersion.