November - December Departures
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Availability is limited. Send your request today to secure your place on a small-group Japan shore excursion with local guide.
Back at your ship in good time
This tour is planned to bring you back to the port 90 to 120 minutes before your ship departs. If traffic or opening hours require it, your guide may change the order of visits or the time at a stop.
Illustration only. The exact hours depend on your ship’s schedule and are listed per departure below.
Tour Overview
Discover the fascinating origins of Japanese sumo on this cultural journey through Katsuragi, a region deeply connected to the history and legends of Japan’s national sport. Combining ancient heritage with a hands-on cultural experience, this Osaka shore excursion offers a different perspective on Japan beyond its most familiar tourist attractions.
With a blend of historical discovery, cultural immersion, and hands-on participation, this tour is an opportunity to explore the heritage behind sumo while discovering a lesser-known side of the Nara region.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Sumo fans and anyone curious about where Japan’s national sport began.
- Families and groups who want a hands-on, memorable cultural activity.
- Culture and history lovers who like quiet temples away from the busiest crowds.
- Cruise guests docking at Osaka or Kobe who have a full day ashore.
Inquire about this tour now with Japan Shore Excursions – Your local experts in unforgettable journeys!
Full Itinerary
Tour Route at a Glance
Pick-up at the port (Osaka or Kobe)
Your guide and driver meet you at the cruise port and you set off for Katsuragi in Nara Prefecture.
Taima-dera Temple
Walk the grounds of a temple said to have been founded in the early 7th century. Its twin pagodas, dating from around 710, are the only pair of original twin pagodas left in Japan. Your guide tells the story of Princess Chujo and the Taima Mandala, a Pure Land picture said to have been woven in a single night from lotus fibres.
Taima no Kehaya Mound
A short visit to the mound associated with Taima no Kehaya, the legendary strongman of Taima village. His match against Nomi no Sukune is said to be the origin of sumo and the first bout performed before an Emperor.
Kehaya-za Sumo Experience & Museun
The sumo museum of Katsuragi, built in honour of Taima no Kehaya. Try on sumo attire, step into a full-size dohyo and join interactive activities that show what sumo feels like. Exhibits cover the history and traditions of the sport.
Return to Cruise Port
Your guide and driver take you back to the port in time to rejoin your ship.
Tour Details
Operating days
Kehaya-za Sumo Museum is normally open 10:00 to 17:00 and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except on public holidays.
The sumo experience
Step into a full-size sumo ring and try sumo attire. Hands-on activities are part of the visit.
Activity level
Walking on temple grounds and a short visit to the mound, plus the sumo activities.
Guide
Licensed English-speaking guide.
Transport
Chartered car or coach, with highway and parking fees covered.
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
✓ English speaking tour guide (all licensed)
✓ Charted car consisting high-way, parking fee and boat fee
✓ Entrance fees & port fee
Not included
✕ Pre and post-tour accommodation
✕ Tips for guide and driver
✕ Meals & Drinks
Cancellation and Refund Policy
| When you cancel | What is charged |
|---|---|
| More than 40 days before | 10% of the deposit is non-refundable and kept as credit for your next trip. The rest is refunded (your bank may charge a fee). |
| 40 to 30 days before | 35% of the deposit |
| 29 to 15 days before | 50% of the deposit |
| 14 to 10 days before | 75% of the total booking value |
| Less than 10 days, or no show | 100% of the total booking value |
Refunds are usually processed within 2 to 4 working weeks after we receive your written cancellation request. After the trip has started, we cannot refund unused services, early departure, late arrival or missed days.
Return-to-Ship Policy in Short
When we step in
- Significant itinerary delays caused by poor tour management or scheduling by our operations team;
- Operational errors that are solely attributable to Shore Excursions Asia and directly result in the guest missing the vessel.
When we are not liable
- Heavy traffic, road closures, severe weather or natural disasters;
- Civil unrest, public demonstrations, strikes, or government/police restrictions;
- Customs or immigration delays, medical emergencies, third-party suppliers.
Guests Responsibilities
- Arrive on time at the meeting point and return on time after free time;
- Follow the guide’s instructions on departure times;
- Communicate requests for additional sightseeing, shopping stops, or itinerary modifications in advance.
FAQ about Sumo Experience in Nara
This tour combines Japanese cultural heritage with a hands-on sumo experience. You will visit Taima-dera Temple, discover the legend of Taima no Kehaya at his memorial mound, and enjoy an interactive sumo experience at Kehaya-za. It is a unique opportunity to explore the history and traditions behind one of Japan’s most iconic sports.
The highlight of the tour is the hands-on Sumo Experience at Kehaya-za, where you can step into the sumo ring and learn more about this traditional Japanese sport. The activities available may depend on the program arranged for your visit.
*Please note that a professional sumo tournament or live match is not included unless specifically stated.
Not at all! This tour is suitable for both sumo enthusiasts and first-time visitors. Your experience offers an introduction to sumo’s history, cultural significance, and traditions, making it enjoyable even if you are completely new to the sport.
Yes, this tour is designed with cultural exploration in mind and can be suitable for cruise passengers looking for an experience beyond the usual sightseeing route.
The temple visits and historical stops may appeal to travelers of different ages. However, participation in the sumo activities, walking distances, and access conditions may vary.
The temple visits and historical stops may appeal to travelers of different ages. However, participation in the sumo activities, walking distances, and access conditions may vary.
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