Sumo Restaurants in Osaka: 9 Spots for Live Wrestling Shows & Authentic Chanko-Nabe
“Sumo in Osaka?” you might ask. It’s a fair question, but the city is home to unique restaurants where you can watch, eat, and experience the world of sumo all in one place. Imagine watching thrilling matches by former professional sumo wrestlers (rikishi) while enjoying traditional Japanese hot pot cuisine, learning the rules of sumo with English commentary, or even stepping into the dohyo (sumo ring) to challenge a wrestler yourself.
You can participate in these experiences in Namba and near Kansai International Airport (KIX). And if you simply want to savor an authentic meal, specialty restaurants serving chanko-nabe (the hearty hot pot dish that powers Japan’s sumo wrestlers) can be found in Umeda, Kyobashi, and Shin-Osaka.
This article highlights nine of the best sumo restaurants in Osaka:three offering sumo shows and six specializing in chanko-nabe. We’ve compiled everything you need to know—from prices and access to reservation tips— so that you can discover an unforgettable sumo experience in Osaka.
Contents
Two Ways to Enjoy Sumo and Cuisine in Osaka
You can enjoy sumo culture while dining in Osaka in two main ways. Each offers something different, so pick the experience that fits your travel style.
- Interactive Restaurants: Enjoy a meal while watching live performances by wrestlers.
- Specialty Restaurants: Savor chanko-nabe (the dish actually eaten by Japan’s sumo wrestlers) at a traditional eatery.
Your experience depends on which type of restaurant you choose, so let’s break down the differences.
What to Expect at an Interactive Sumo Show Restaurant
At Osaka’s sumo-themed restaurants, you’ll witness high-energy bouts of wrestling between former wrestlers while enjoying Japanese cuisine.
Show content varies, but most restaurants include demonstrations of shiko (the ritual foot stomping performed at the beginning of a sumo match in order to drive away evil spirits), exhibition matches, and explanations of sumo rules. Many venues offer hands-on activities too, giving you a chance to step into the dohyo and try sumo yourself.
Some venues use modern sound, lighting, and video to create a dazzling spectacle. This deep-dive into Japanese tradition is bound to be a highlight of your trip.
Savoring Chanko-Nabe: the Sumo Wrestler’s Diet
Chanko-nabe is a nutrient-rich stew (or hot pot) dish that is enjoyed as a group and is shared from a communal pot. It was developed in sumo stables (the communal living quarters and training houses of sumo wrestlers) during the Meiji era (1868–1912) to help wrestlers develop their powerful bodies.
The tradition began in the early 1900s at the Dewanoumi stable, led by Yokozuna Hitachiyama(yokozuna is the title for the highest ranking wrestler in sumo). As the number of new athletes grew, this dish—easy to prepare in large quantities—became a staple.
Several theories explain the origin of the name “chanko.” One links it to “chan” (the stablemaster) and “ko” (the disciples), who ate together. Another traces it to the Chinese word for “iron pot,” or “chankuo.”
At Osaka’s sumo restaurants, you can taste this dish in its traditional form. Choose from soy sauce, miso, or salt-based broths, each packed with chicken, pork, tsumire (fish meatballs), and fresh vegetables. Some restaurants offer large pots for sharing as a group, while others serve individual portions. Select locations have Muslim-friendly and vegan options, making it accessible to many kinds of diners.
The Best Sumo Show Restaurants in Osaka
Here, we introduce restaurants in Osaka where you can enjoy a sumo show and a meal at the same time. At these spots, you’ll see dynamic performances up close while savoring chanko-nabe and other Japanese dishes.
We’ve selected the best venues in Nishinari, Izumisano, and Namba, covering each location’s concept, show, and menu highlights. Compare what makes each venue special to find the perfect fit for your travel plans and budget.
Sumo Studio Osaka (Nishinari)
Sumo Studio Osaka is an immersive sumo studio where you can watch thrilling matches between former sumo wrestlers up close. The highlight? Seeing real wrestlers collide right before your eyes. In the “Audience Challenge” section of the show, you can step into the dohyo yourself and feel the unmovable strength of a wrestler.
The 90-minute live show runs entirely in English. You’ll learn about sumo’s history and the meanings behind sacred rituals like shiko and the purifying salt toss, making this venue perfect for beginners to sumo. After the show, there’s time for photos and chatting with the wrestlers. You can also unwind with a drink at the adjacent bar.
The location is a plus too, as it’s right in front of Exit 4 of Hanazonocho Station. It’s just 10 minutes from Namba Station and close to Shinsekai, so it fits easily into your Osaka sightseeing schedule.
Details
| Address | 1F Hanazonocho AI Bldg., 1-5-1 Asahi, Nishinari-ku, Osaka |
| Phone | +81-70-8450-6390 |
| Hours | Multiple sessions: 10:00 am–11:30 am, 12:30 pm–2:00 pm, 3:00 pm–4:30 pm, 5:30 pm–7:00 pm, 8:00 pm–9:30 pm |
| Closed | Inquire (check official website) |
| Website | https://sumowrestlingshow.jp/ |
| Best for | Travelers who want a genuine, hands-on sumo experience and lasting memories |
Sumo Restaurant Ochiizumi-beya (Izumisano)
Sumo Restaurant Ochiizumi-beya is an immersive dining experience designed by former Ozeki (ozeki is the title for the second-highest ranking wrestler in sumo) Konishiki. Opened in May 2024 inside the Izumisano Ochi Arena, it features a real dohyo where former wrestlers put on exciting shows.
The venue hosts two shows a day (1 pm and 6 pm) on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Each roughly 40-minute performance includes match demonstrations and a program where you can step into the dohyo for a hands-on experience.
For food, you’ll find all-you-can-eat traditional chanko-nabe, Japanese street-stall food favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls), and “cup sake” (a Japanese drinking style in which sake is served in single-portion cups) selected by an international sake sommelier. Prices are 13,000 yen for the show only and 17,000 yen with chanko-nabe included, while kids in elementary school or younger get in for free. Reservations can be made by phone (072-447-6711) or through the official website.
Getting there is easy: it’s just a 2-minute walk from Rinku Town Station, one stop from Kansai International Airport.
Details
| Address | 3 Rinku Orai Minami, Izumisano, Osaka (inside Izumisano Ochi Arena) |
| Phone | +81-72-447-6711 |
| Hours | 2 shows daily: 1:00 pm, 6:00 pm (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) |
| Closed | Monday to Thursday |
| Website | https://www.ochiizumi.com/ |
| Best for | Families and culture-seekers who want a real sumo experience near the airport |
THE SUMO HALL Hirakuza OSAKA (Namba)
THE SUMO HALL Hirakuza OSAKA is a show hall in Namba Parks, a large shopping complex in central Minami, one of Osaka’s liveliest districts. Here, sumo, entertainment, and Japanese food culture come together on a stage that sports a sumo ring.
The venue uses modern sound, lighting, and video to present sumo traditions as contemporary entertainment. What makes it special is that you can join in: meet the wrestlers, snap photos, and try sumo moves in the dohyo.
For dining, enjoy chanko-nabe or the special “Hirakuza Bento” packed with Osaka’s local foods. The diverse menu blends Japanese and Western tastes, including yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and yakisoba (Japanese stir-fry), making it a full show-and-meal experience.
THE SUMO HALL Hirazuka OSAKA is just a 3-minute walk from Namba Station, perfect for a stop between sightseeing and shopping.
Details
| Address | 8F Namba Parks, 2-10-70 Nambanaka, Naniwa-ku, Osaka |
| Hours | Performance-based schedule (e.g., shows start at 5:00 pm / 8:00 pm, etc.) |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
| Website | https://nambaparks.com/shopresearch/627 |
| Best for | Visitors in Namba who want modern entertainment and a varied menu |
Best Chanko-Nabe Restaurants in Osaka
Want to savor authentic Japanese hot pot cuisine? Here’s a guide to chanko-nabe specialty restaurants across Osaka City.
From spots run by former wrestlers to those with creative twists, we’ve picked six shops in Umeda, Namba, Kyobashi, and Shin-Osaka and provide details about each restaurant’s flavors, access, and reservation info. These are all places where you can casually enjoy the traditional taste that has fueled Japan’s sumo wrestlers for generations.
Sumo Chaya Terao Osaka (Umeda)
Sumo Chaya Terao (Osaka location) serves chanko-nabe based on the traditional recipe of the Izutsu stable. The golden chicken broth, rich and aromatic, delivers the genuine taste of a sumo stable, and the pot brims with nutritious ingredients such as chicken, Chinese cabbage, green onions, carrots, tofu, and mushrooms.
The restaurant has a chic, Japanese modern interior with horigotatsu seating (low tables over a hole in the floor into which you can stretch your legs). The decor, reminiscent of a sumo stable, adds to the charm.
Sumo Chaya Terao Osaka is a 5-minute walk from JR Osaka Station and a 3-minute walk from Nishi-Umeda Station. Reservations can be made by phone (lines open at 10 am).
Details
| Address | 2-4-6 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka |
| Hours | 11:30 am–2:00 pm (Last order: 1:30 pm), 5:00 pm–10:00 pm (Last order: 9:30 pm) |
| Closed | Sundays |
| Website | https://sumouchayateraoosakaten.gorp.jp/ |
| Best for | Diners who want chanko-nabe made from a traditional sumo stable recipe in a relaxed, modern setting in Umeda |
Chanko Izakaya Taichizan (Umeda)
Chanko Izakaya Taichizan is a specialty restaurant run by a former wrestler, tucked away on floor B2 of the Osaka Ekimae Dai-2 Building. With just 10 counter seats, the space is intimate, and you can savor chanko-nabe created by the owner himself.
The restaurant serves two types of chanko-nabe:
- Tori-Shio: A chicken and salt-based broth with about 10 ingredients—rich yet light enough for a second helping.
- Curry: A unique twist that adds curry flavor to the traditional hot pot.
Each pot is served individually. For shime (the final course, usually noodles or rice simmered in the remaining broth after the vegetables and meat have been consumed), choose from ramen, udon, or zosui (rice porridge).
Besides chanko-nabe, there are also small dishes like karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and dashimaki tamago (rolled omelet seasoned with Japanese broth and soy sauce), making it a great stop as a casual izakaya (pub-style restaurant).
Chanko Izakaya Taichizan is just a 1-minute walk from Kitashinchi Station and 7 minutes from Osaka Station. You can make reservations for regular dining or book the space for private parties of up to 20 people.
Details
| Address | B2F Osaka Ekimae Dai-2 Bldg., 1-2-2 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka |
| Hours | 5:30 pm–10:30 pm (Last order: 10:00 pm) |
| Closed | Thursdays and Sundays |
| Website | https://chanko-Taichizan.com/ |
| Best for | Solo diners who want a casual dining experience and a chat with the owner (a former wrestler) |
Sumo Kitchen Saganobori (Namba)
Sumo Kitchen Saganobori is a chanko-nabe specialty restaurant overseen by Saganobori, a former top-division wrestler. Just a 2-minute walk from Exit 25 of Namba Station, it’s an easy way to taste real sumo cuisine in central Osaka.
The signature dish is a secret salt-based broth made from chicken stock—clean and savory, it warms you from the inside. Chicken tataki ( a Japanese cooking technique in which the meat is lightly seared on the outside, leaving it partially raw on the inside) made from free-range chicken, fresh fish, and crisp vegetables is another recommended dish and a great pick for health-conscious diners.
Sumo Kitchen Saganobori is open for dinner only, and the average meal costs around 4,000 yen. Party courses and all-you-can-drink plans make it ideal for groups. Note: no lunch, takeout, or delivery available.
Details
| Address | 2-4-6 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka |
| Hours | 5:00 pm–11:00 pm (Last order: 10:30 pm) |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
| Website | https://saganobori.com/ |
| Best for | Groups seeking a dinner party spot in Namba, especially fans of light, salt-based broth |
Chanko Nishinoryu (Namba)
Chanko Nishinoryu is a fusion chanko-nabe restaurant in Namba run by former wrestler Tsunenoyama and currently active wrestler Nishinoryu. Their signature chanko-nabe features a rich broth with a bold garlic aroma that hits you the moment the pot arrives at your table.
It’s loaded with quality ingredients: Japanese black pork meatballs, salmon, shrimp, vegetables, and fu (dried wheat gluten, often used in stews and soups). Seasonal options include hamo (daggertooth pike conger, a prized white fish) hot pot and suppon (soft-shell turtle) hot pot, so available flavors vary depending on when you visit.
The interior of Chanko Nishinoryu is decorated with mawashi (the thick belt/loincloth worn by wrestlers), creating an atmosphere sumo fans will love. It’s also right on Sennichimae-suji, just steps from Exit B25 of Nippombashi Station. Reservations can be made by phone at 06-6645-1115.
Details
| Address | 2-6-12 Sennichimae, Chuo-ku, Osaka |
| Hours | Tue–Sun 5:00 pm–11:00 pm (Last order: 10:00 pm) |
| Closed | Mondays |
| Website | https://r.gnavi.co.jp/71hrs0170000/ |
| Best for | Diners who love bold, garlicky flavors and want to eat surrounded by sumo memorabilia |
Sumo Ryouri Jinryu (Kyobashi)
Sumo Ryouri Jinryu is a long-standing sumo cuisine restaurant near Kyobashi Station, beloved by regulars. Their soy sauce-based broth is robust and savory, and the chanko-nabe comes packed with vegetables, meat, and tender, homemade meatballs.
Portions are generous—one serving often feeds two, making it excellent value. Besides hot pot, try side dishes like fried tsukune (chicken meatballs) with a hint of ginger, perfect for pairing with a glass of beer.
If you want a hearty meal from a former wrestler in a calm, neighborhood setting, Sumo Ryouri Jinryu—a 4-minute walk from Kyobashi Station—is your spot.
Details
| Address | 4-2-17 Higashinodamachi, Miyakojima-ku, Osaka |
| Hours | 5:30 pm–11:00 pm (Last order: 10:30 pm) |
| Closed | Wednesdays, New Year’s holidays, Obon festival, Tenjin festival |
| Website | https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270107/27018608/ |
| Best for | Hungry diners looking for generous portions at a great price |
Sousaku Chanko Masukaze (Shin-Osaka)
Sousaku Chanko Masukaze is a chanko-nabe specialty restaurant in Shin-Osaka run by Masukaze, a former wrestler from the Mihogaseki stable. Drawing on his experience, he serves fusion chanko-nabe with three broth options based on kelp and chicken stock:
- Salt Chanko with Collagen (the owner’s top pick)
- Light Soy Sauce Chanko with bonito dashi
- Miso Chanko with aromatic vegetables
For the salt chanko, try finishing with pasta noodles in the leftover broth—an inventive Western twist on this Japanese dish. Carefully selected ingredients make this modern take on sumo wrestler cuisine great for business dinners or special occasions.
The restaurant has a calm, modern Japanese atmosphere with 40 seats, including horigotatsu seating. The drink menu focuses on shochu (a clear, distilled spirit, distinct from sake), which pairs well with their main courses.
Sousaku Chanko Masukaze is a 3-minute walk from Nishinakajima-Minamigata Station on the Midosuji Line. You can make reservations by phone at 06-6885-5517.
Details
| Address | 1F Daisan Bldg., 3-12-15 Nishinakajima, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka |
| Hours | Mon–Thu 6:00 pm–11:00 pm (Last order: 10:00 pm), Fri–Sat 6:00 pm–11:30 pm (Last order: 10:30 pm) |
| Closed | Sundays and public holidays |
| Website | https://www.masukaze.com/ |
| Best for | Travelers near Shin-Osaka who want fusion chanko with unique finishing options like pasta |
Sumo Restaurants in Osaka: Common Questions
“Is it okay to bring children?”
“Are there vegetarian options?”
“Is tipping necessary?”
Here are answers to some common questions for first-time visitors. A quick review of this information before you book will help your visit go smoothly.
Can children eat chanko-nabe?
Absolutely. Chanko-nabe is delicious and kid-friendly. It’s packed with balanced ingredients like vegetables, chicken, and tofu, and the gentle flavor—based on dashi and chicken broths—suits young children’s tastes well.
Many sumo restaurants in Osaka welcome families and often include:
- Free admission for children in elementary school or younger
- Barrier-free access for strollers
- High chairs and dedicated spaces for children
- Kid-friendly items like karaage or onigiri (rice balls)
At Sumo Restaurant Ochiizumi-beya, kids can enjoy street-stall food favorites like takoyaki and okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancakes that usually contain cabbage and other vegetables, as well as meat or seafood), so they won’t get bored. THE SUMO HALL Hirakuza OSAKA offers a “Kodomo Plate” (kid’s set) and specially-priced performance tickets for children aged 3 to 12.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options for chanko-nabe?
Standard chanko-nabe uses animal-based broth like chicken or pork stock, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. We haven’t found restaurants that officially offer vegetarian or vegan chanko-nabe made only with kelp or vegetable broth.
That said, some restaurants can adjust their dishes if you call ahead. When booking a reservation, try asking:
- Can the broth be made without animal products?
- Can the hot pot be prepared with only vegetables and tofu?
- Are there other vegetarian dishes on the menu?
You might also consider enjoying the sumo show and then dining elsewhere.
Is tipping required in Japanese restaurants?
No. Japan has no tipping custom, and this applies to all restaurants, including sumo venues. You pay only what’s on the bill, plus an occasional service charge.
If you try to leave a tip, staff will almost always politely decline. Good service is simply the standard here, and tipping can cause confusion.
The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) officially states that tipping isn’t necessary—just pay the amount shown on your bill.
What are the etiquette rules for watching a sumo show in Osaka?
Sumo shows are thrilling, but a few etiquette tips will make the experience better for everyone.
Photography and video rules vary by venue. At THE SUMO HALL Hirakuza OSAKA, filming during the show is prohibited, but photos are allowed afterward. Check the rules before your visit.
When interacting with wrestlers:
- Don’t touch the wrestlers or the gyoji (referee).
- Follow the host’s instructions for autographs and photos.
- Avoid distracting wrestlers while they’re concentrating.
For hands-on activities, listen carefully and follow staff instructions.
Knowing basic sumo rules makes the show more fun. They’re simple: a wrestler loses by stepping out of the ring or touching the ground with anything other than the soles of their feet. Watch for a variety of techniques and the strategic back-and-forth between the athletes—it’s exciting once you know what to look for.
With good manners, you’ll have a great time.
Find Your Perfect Sumo Restaurant in Osaka
Each spot in Osaka offers something special for sumo fans and foodies alike.
For a spectacular show and hands-on experience, try Sumo Studio Osaka or Sumo Restaurant Ochiizumi-beya. You’ll get to meet the wrestlers and take photos, too.
If you want to savor authentic chanko-nabe, head to specialty restaurants run by former wrestlers, like Sumo Chaya Terao or Chanko Izakaya Taichizan.
Book ahead for any of these spots. Pick the place that fits your travel style and dive into the unique mix of sumo culture and great food that Osaka has to offer.