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Sumo in the Garden
December 13th, 2024
Sumo in the Garden
EVENT
December 13th, 4:30pm-8:30pm
(Performance starts at 5pm)
In Collaboration with Taste of Japan
Sumo in the Garden Admission (Includes Admission to Taste of Japan):
General $55 / Members $50
Youth (7-17) $40 / Members $35
General (With Food) $70 / Members $65
Youth (7-17) (With Food) $55 / Members $50
Join us for Sumo in the Garden, a brand-new event at the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix. This special experience offers a rare opportunity to witness the power and spirit of sumo against the serene backdrop of the Garden, in collaboration with Taste of Japan!
Get an up-close look at sumo traditions with a live demonstration, where you’ll have the chance to try Shiko (sumo stomping) alongside a real sumo wrestler. Learn about the history and significance of sumo from an insider’s perspective, then participate in an engaging Q&A session.
Between sessions, enjoy the energetic rhythms of Taiko drums and soothing bamboo flute melodies. Savor a taste of sumo culture with Chanko Nabe, a hearty hotpot dish prepared by local food vendors, and browse a selection of sake, drinks, and snacks from the Garden Gift Shop to complete your immersive experience.
VIP Sumo in the Garden Admission (learn more):
General $80 / Members $75
Youth (7-17) $65 / Members $60
General (With Food) $95 / Members $90
Youth (7-17) (With Food) $80 / Members $75
Pre-purchase Chanko Nabe with your ticket! (Ticket with Food)
Chanko Nabe is a rich and filling Japanese hot pot dish traditionally eaten by sumo wrestlers. Known for its balanced nutrition, Chanko Nabe includes a mix of proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu, with special chicken and fish tsumire (meatballs) that add extra flavor and texture. These meatballs are simmered along with hearty vegetables such as napa cabbage, mushrooms, and green onions in a savory broth. This nutritious meal, designed to boost strength and stamina, is
typically enjoyed in large gatherings where everyone shares from the same pot.
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Pre-order food with your ticket to save time in line and enjoy your meal as you watch the sumo match!
What to Expect
Sumo Talk, Demonstration & Shiko Together: Get an insider’s view into the world of sumo with a live demonstration and hands-on opportunity to practice Shiko (sumo stomping) alongside a real sumo wrestler! The session also includes a talk on the traditions and significance of sumo and an engaging Q&A.
Live Music Performance: Experience the power and excitement of traditional Japanese Taiko drumming during an intermission. The energetic beats will set the stage and deepen your connection to Japanese culture.
Chanko Nabe Food Vendors: Indulge in Chanko Nabe, the hearty hotpot dish of sumo wrestlers, prepared by local food vendors. This comforting meal will be available for purchase throughout the event.
Sake, Drinks, and Snacks: Explore an array of sake, drinks, and snacks available from the Japanese Friendship Garden Gift Shop to complement your sumo experience for purchase.
Event Schedule
Take a closer look at our program (subject to change)
Programming
4:30pm: Gates Open
Enjoy delicious sake, savory Japanese food, or take a stroll during sunset before performances begin.
5pm: Lead-in Taiko Set
Performance by Ken Koshio & Kenzoo.
5:15pm: Introduction
Taste of Japan kick-off with important guests including the Consul General and our Executive Director.
5:0pm: Sumo Demonstration
Introduction of Sumo champions and Demonstration of rules, rituals, training, and techniques.
5:50pm: Sumo Stomp (Shiko) Demonstration
Audience members can try their hand at the shiko!
6pm: Intermission - Taiko Performance
6:15pm: Sumo Match
Series of 6 real matches.
6:45pm: Are You Strong Enough?
Try your hand and see if you can push the sumo champions!
7pm: Closing Ritual and Photo Opportunity
After the closing ritual, our VIP guests can take photos with the champions at our tea house.
8:15pm: Program Ends
8:30pm: Gates Close
After the performances conclude, end the evening with a stroll through the Garden before the gates close.
About Our Performers
Ichinojo Takashi
born as Altankhuyag Ichinnorov, Ichinojo Takashi is a Mongolian sumo wrestler who competes for the Minato stable. He made his professional debut in 2014 and quickly rose to prominence due to his immense size, standing at 192 cm (6'3") and weighing around 215 kg (475 lbs). In September 2022, Ichinojo achieved his highest rank of Sekiwake, a significant feat in sumo. He is known for his powerful yotsu-zumo style (grappling sumo), where he uses his size to overpower opponents. His career has been marked by strong performances, including a yusho (tournament victory) in the top Makuuchi division.
Hishofuji Hiroki
Also known as Hiroki Sumi, Hishofuji Hiroki is a retired sumo wrestler hailing from Kobe, Japan. During his sumo career, he competed under the ring name Hishofuji and became known for his strength and skill in the sport. His career highlights include a remarkable 22-match win streak, demonstrating his prowess in the highly competitive world of sumo wrestling. After retiring from sumo, Hiroki transitioned into acting, with notable appearances in films like John Wick: Chapter 4 and the Netflix series Sanctuary. Today, he continues to share his knowledge of sumo through exhibitions and public appearance.
Mendsaikhan Tsogt-Erdene
also known as "Mendee," Mendsaikhan Tsogt-Erdene, is a rising star in the sumo wrestling world, particularly in the U.S. sumo circuit. He hails from Mongolia and has established a strong presence in the sport, winning both the Heavyweight and Openweight divisions at the 2022 U.S. Sumo Open. At 25 years old and weighing 320 pounds, Mendee remains undefeated in heavyweight competitions, boasting an impressive 27-0 record as of 2023 (His remarkable skill and dominance make him one of the most exciting competitors to watch at sumo events.
Ken Koshio & Kenzoo
Ken Koshio was born in Japan and has been traveling around the world as a singer and musician. Currently based in Phoenix, he creates fusion music with Native American artists and acts as a cultural ambassador of Japan and a cultural bridge of the world. Kenzoo is comprised of additional members John Paul Mendes, who has been performing Taiko for over a decade, and Miro Koshio, fue and taiko performer who has been performing since he was young in both Japan and the US.
We hope to see you at our next event, December 13th, 2024!
VIP Tickets
Take a closer look at our program (subject to change)
Your VIP Experience Includes:
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Admission to Taste of Japan: Enjoy access to the event: December 14th or 15th at Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix!
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VIP Seating: Reserved front-row seating near the stage area for prime viewing.
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Meet & Greet with Sumo Wrestlers: Get an exclusive opportunity to meet the sumo wrestlers up close in the Garden. Don’t miss out on personal interactions and photo opportunities!
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One blank shikishi board for autographs!
VIP Sumo in the Garden Admission (Limited to 50):
General $80
Youth (7-17) $65
General (With Food) $95
Youth (7-17) (With Food) $80
