Palatial Pursuits: Grappling Tokyo and understanding the ancient sport of Sumo
Summer 2020 will see Tokyo hosting the Summer Olympic games and with the Rugby World Cup planned for September 2019, this is a period of great sporting significance for Japan’s capital. Whilst the sport of Karate has been Japan’s contribution to the Olympic games next year, the nation’s other beloved sport packs a slightly different kind of punch… Sumo wrestling!
Palace Hotel Tokyo offers guests the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at a sumo wrestling stable, get lost in the gripping matches over the course of an afternoon and tour the hallowed Ryoguku Kokugikan arena. This is an exclusive chance to uncover Japan’s unique 2000-year old sporting tradition amidst a backdrop of 21st-century Olympic excitement.
Palace Hotel Tokyo (www.palacehoteltokyo.com, offers a two-night Grappling Tokyo package from £4100 based on two people sharing. Including accommodation, breakfast at the Grand Kitchen, two tickets to the sumo wrestling tournament, a personal guide and accompanying translator.