the show in order
The Kyoto sumo show, from the geisha's dance to the last bite
The order of play, with what to do before the show and between each part.
Reserve your seats for the sumo show ↗The show at a glance
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Arrive | Reach the fifth floor at least 20 minutes before the show |
| The dance | Geisha in kimono perform a traditional dance |
| Demonstrations | Morning exercises, techniques and the do's and don'ts of the ring |
| The match | A best-of-three bout between retired professional wrestlers |
| The challenge | Volunteers step into the ring, by lottery if needed |
| The table | All you can eat and drink, all the way through |
Before the show
Reach the building with the Animate store, go to the fifth floor and aim to be inside at least 20 minutes before the start. Your booking shows the start time.
The dance
The show opens with a traditional Japanese dance by geisha in elegant kimono. It sets the tone before any wrestling starts.
The demonstrations
Wrestlers show the morning exercises that begin a sumo day and the classic techniques, while the English commentary explains what you are watching.
The match
Retired professional sumo wrestlers meet in a best-of-three match on the dohyo at the centre of the restaurant.
The challenge
Next, volunteers can step in and take on a wrestler. Spots are limited per show, so the club draws lots when there are too many hands up.
The table
The chanko-nabe and the other dishes are all you can eat and drink, so the meal runs alongside the whole show rather than sitting at the end of it.