Ryogoku: A Fascinating Area to Experience Tokyo’s History and Culture
Ryogoku is a captivating area where you can experience the history and culture of Tokyo. Known as the sacred ground of sumo wrestling, it is a place where traditional culture coexists with modern tourist attractions. Here, we will introduce the access, tourist spots, gourmet experiences, and activities in Ryogoku in detail.
Overview of Ryogoku
Ryogoku is an area where history and culture blend in the heart of Tokyo. It is especially known as the city of sumo, with facilities related to sumo such as the “Ryogoku Kokugikan” and the “Sumo Museum.” Additionally, there are spots where you can feel the traditions from the Edo period and beautiful Japanese gardens to explore. Ryogoku is loved by many visitors as a place to enjoy sightseeing, gourmet food, and cultural experiences.
Access
Access to Ryogoku is very convenient. Using the JR Sobu Line’s “Ryogoku Station,” it is about 10 minutes from Tokyo Station, making it easily accessible from within the city. Moreover, the Toei Oedo Line’s “Ryogoku Station” is also available, ensuring smooth transportation to tourist sites. Many tourist attractions are within walking distance in the Ryogoku area, allowing you to visit many highlights in a day.
Tourist Spots in Ryogoku
Ryogoku offers a rich array of tourist attractions centered around sumo. Below are some spots you should visit.
Ryogoku Kokugikan
“Ryogoku Kokugikan” is the home of grand sumo wrestling and a sacred place for many sumo fans. Inside the venue, you can watch sumo matches and enjoy exhibits about the history of sumo. There are special events where you can take photos with sumo wrestlers, so be sure to participate.
Sumo Museum
The “Sumo Museum” is located on the first floor of “Ryogoku Kokugikan” and displays valuable materials related to sumo. It features items that sumo fans will love, such as handprints of historic yokozuna (sumo champions). It’s a place where you can learn more deeply about the history of sumo.
Edo-Tokyo Museum
The “Edo-Tokyo Museum” is a popular spot to learn about Tokyo’s history and culture. It exhibits models that recreate the streets of the Edo period and a full-scale model of Nihonbashi, allowing visitors to study the transformation of Tokyo from the Edo period to the present day.
Kyu-Yasuda Garden
“Kyu-Yasuda Garden” is a beautiful Japanese garden built during the Genroku era. It is a serene place where you can enjoy nature in every season, with koi and turtles swimming in the pond. This tranquil and healing space attracts many tourists.
Ryogoku Fireworks Museum
At the “Ryogoku Fireworks Museum,” you can learn about the history and artistry of fireworks. There is a section introducing the history of the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, offering a touch of traditional Japanese culture.
Tokyo Origami Museum
The “Tokyo Origami Museum” offers exhibitions showcasing the wonder of origami to the world. There are origami classes that parents and children can join together, providing an enjoyable creative activity.
Sumida Hokusai Museum
The “Sumida Hokusai Museum” collects works of Katsushika Hokusai, allowing visitors to experience the charm of ukiyo-e (Japanese woodblock prints) up close. It also offers touch panel viewing for an interactive experience.
Tokyo Metropolitan Memorial Hall
The “Tokyo Metropolitan Memorial Hall” is a shrine dedicated to the victims of the Great Kanto Earthquake, where visitors can view valuable materials and paintings from that time. It’s an ideal visit for those wishing to deepen their understanding of history.
Ryogoku Station Gallery
A gallery located within a historic building, where you can learn about the history of Ryogoku. There is a street piano available for anyone to play, providing musical enjoyment.
Ryogoku Edo NOREN
“Ryogoku Edo NOREN” is a commercial facility where you can experience Edo-period food culture. With a “dohyo” (sumo ring) on display, you can enjoy a variety of gourmet dishes in an atmosphere reminiscent of the Edo period.
Chanko Experience in Ryogoku
When visiting Ryogoku, be sure to try the authentic “chanko nabe.” This dish, originating from meals eaten in sumo stables, is a nutritious hot pot that sumo wrestlers consume daily, offering a wide variety of flavors.
Chanko Kirishima
“Chanko Kirishima” is a restaurant providing chanko nabe from the “Mutsu beya” of former “Ozeki” Mutsu Oyakata. You can enjoy a hot pot dish with plenty of vegetables and seafood, based on a special chicken and pork bone broth. The location is also convenient, being just a 1-minute walk from JR Ryogoku Station.
Chanko Edosawa
At “Chanko Edosawa,” you can savor traditional chanko nabe created by a former sumo wrestler. The exquisite soup features a secret salt blend with chicken broth, paired with various ingredients. It also offers banquet and private room options, making it ideal for group visits.
Chanko Tomoegata
Just a 3-minute walk from Ryogoku Station, “Chanko Tomoegata” is known for offering four different flavors of chanko nabe. Particularly recommended are the “Yahazu-yama Chanko” (mizutaki) with seafood and special ponzu, and the “Kunimi-yama Chanko” (salt flavor) seasoned with chicken broth and salt. It accommodates both small and large groups, suitable for various occasions.
Chanko Dojo Ryogoku Station Front
“Chanko Dojo Ryogoku Station Front” boasts a healthy soy sauce-based chanko nabe. The hot pot, using homemade “tsukune” (chicken meatballs) and fresh duck meat, offers varying deliciousness from different ingredients. The retro atmosphere of the interior makes it a perfect space to enjoy a leisurely meal.
Ami Ryogoku Sohonten
“Ami Ryogoku Sohonten” is located about a 1-minute walk from Ryogoku Station, offering excellent access. Here, you can enjoy a variety of chanko nabe, such as the light soy sauce-flavored “Isegahama-beya Chanko” and the unique “Yaki Chanko.” The stylish interior makes it perfect for girls’ gatherings.
Chanko Masuiyama
Lastly, “Chanko Masuiyama” features “chicken tsukune soy sauce chanko” provided by a former “Ozeki” owner. You can enjoy chanko nabe in an authentic sumo stable atmosphere, as the interior is remodeled from an actual sumo stable. Be sure to visit during your sumo viewing in Ryogoku.
