The Ultimate Sumo Experience: From Sumo Warrior to Mentor – Kotoeko’s Farewell and Oguruma’s Inheritance Ceremony

On May 31, 2025, the historic Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo will host a truly remarkable event: the Kotoeko Retirement & Oguruma Name Inheritance Ceremony Grand Sumo Event.

This special day celebrates the illustrious career of Kotoeko Mitsunori, who has made an indelible mark on the world of sumo over his 17-year journey, and marks the beginning of his new chapter as Oguruma, a sumo coach dedicated to shaping the next generation.

From the deeply symbolic Danpatsu-shiki (retirement haircutting ceremony) to the Oguruma name inheritance presentation and other traditional sumo performances, the event promises an unforgettable showcase of sumo’s cultural heritage and emotional significance.

Set against the backdrop of Japan’s most iconic sumo arena, attendees will experience not only Kotoeko’s farewell but also a celebration of his resilience, achievements, and lasting legacy in the ring.

The program concludes with a celebratory party, ensuring that this day will be remembered as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all who attend.

Event Details

1. Event Name: Kotoeko Retirement & Oguruma Name Inheritance Ceremony Grand Sumo Event
2. Date and Time:

• Date: Sunday, May 31, 2025
• Time: Doors Open: 10:30 AM / Event Starts: 11:30 AM / Finishes: 4:00 PM

1. Venue:

• Ryogoku Kokugikan
• Address: 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo

1. Program Highlights:

• Kotoeko’s haircutting ceremony
• Oguruma name inheritance presentation
• Special sumo events

Program Highlights

• Kotoeko’s haircutting ceremony (Danpatsu-shiki)
• Oguruma name inheritance presentation
• Special sumo performances and Sumo matches (1st and 2nd Divisions)
• Special Party After Danpatsu Ceremony

About Kotoeko / Oguruma

Kotoeko Mitsunori, born Mitsutaka Kashiwadani on November 20, 1991, is a retired professional sumo wrestler from Nobeoka, Miyazaki, Japan. Competing under the Sadogatake stable, he debuted in 2007 and reached the top makuuchi division in 2018. After a 17-year career, he retired in 2024 and assumed the elder name Oguruma to become a coach.

Legacy and Career

Kotoeko was inspired by his grandfather, a former juryo division wrestler. He overcame setbacks and became the first wrestler from Miyazaki Prefecture to reach the top division in 44 years. Known for his strong and straightforward fighting style, he earned respect in the sumo world.

Retirement and Future

After injuries, including a knee issue that ended his streak of 1,043 consecutive matches, Kotoeko retired in May 2024. Now, as Oguruma, he continues to contribute to sumo as a coach. He also got engaged in September 2023, marking a new chapter in his life.

What is Danpatsu (Haircutting Ceremony)?

The Danpatsu-shiki is a symbolic retirement ritual where a sumo wrestler’s topknot (mage) is cut. This signifies the end of their active career and a transition to their next journey. Important individuals such as coaches, family, and supporters take turns cutting portions of the topknot, with the final cut made by the wrestler’s stablemaster.

Exclusive Experience

In collaboration with Sadogatake stable, we are planning special experiences and exclusive souvenirs for deeply engaged participants. These unique opportunities go beyond standard ticket access.

Special VIP Experience by OKUNI

OKUNI offers an exclusive VIP sumo experience beyond regular ticket access. This premium package includes luxury seating, unique cultural events, exclusive souvenirs, and access to the celebratory party. Currently, details are under discussion with Sadogatake stable and Kotoeko himself to create an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Event Schedule

• Jinku (Sumo Chanting Performance)
  Jinku is a traditional sumo chant performed by sumo wrestlers. This rhythmic and melodic singing style has been passed down through generations and serves as an important part of sumo culture, often used to entertain spectators before the main events.
• Shokkiri (Sumo Comedy Performance)
  Shokkiri is a humorous sumo demonstration that showcases the incorrect or forbidden techniques in sumo wrestling. Performed by lower-ranked wrestlers, it is a lighthearted and entertaining act that allows the audience to enjoy sumo from a different perspective.
• Taiko-uchi (Drumming Performance)
  This is a performance of traditional sumo drumming, where wrestlers beat large taiko drums to create a powerful rhythm. In sumo, taiko drumming is often used to announce the beginning of a tournament or special event.
• Dohyō-iri (Ring Entering Ceremony)
  A formal and highly symbolic ceremony where sumo wrestlers enter the ring wearing their ceremonial aprons (kesho-mawashi). This ritual, performed by top-ranked wrestlers, demonstrates sumo’s deep-rooted traditions and Shinto influences.
• Danpatsu-shiki (Retirement Haircutting Ceremony)
  The highlight of the event, this ceremony marks the official retirement of the sumo wrestler. Significant individuals such as coaches, fellow wrestlers, and family members take turns cutting the wrestler’s topknot (mage), symbolizing his departure from active competition.
• Aisatsu (Speech & Address)
  A formal greeting or farewell speech, typically delivered by the retiring wrestler or key figures in the sumo world. This moment allows the wrestler to express gratitude to fans, coaches, and supporters.
• Torikumi (Sumo Matches)
  A series of sumo matches held as part of the event. These may include exhibition bouts or friendly matches involving both active and retired wrestlers, providing an exciting spectacle for the audience.
• Party (Celebratory Reception)
  A banquet or social gathering held after the main event to celebrate the retiring wrestler’s career. It offers an opportunity for family, friends, and fans to congratulate the wrestler and enjoy food, speeches, and entertainment.

In addition, we are planning special events and exclusive souvenirs in collaboration with members of the Sadogatake stable. These unique experiences are reserved for those who are more deeply involved and cannot be accessed simply by purchasing a ticket.

Ticket Prices　( Just for your information)

The prices listed below is the standard ticket rates. However, at OKUNI, we go beyond just ticket sales by curating a fully immersive and luxurious experience and package for high-net-worth international visitors.

Our exclusive package combines premium seating, specially curated events, unique cultural experiences, exclusive souvenirs, and access to the celebratory party, creating an unforgettable VIP sumo experience that cannot be accessed with a regular ticket.

Currently, the details of this unique package are under planning, and we are in ongoing discussions with members of the Sadogatake stable and Kotoeko himself to finalize the arrangements. This collaboration ensures a truly authentic and one-of-a-kind experience for our guests.

1st Floor Box Seats

1. Box Seat S (Rows 1–4)

• Capacity: 4 people per box
• Price: ¥60,000 (tax included)

1. Box Seat A (Rows 5–8)

• Capacity: 4 people per box
• Price: ¥52,000 (tax included)

1. Spacious 3-Person Box Seat B (Rows 9–12)

• Capacity: 3 people per box
• Price: ¥34,500 (tax included)
• Note: A standard 4-person box used for 3 people

1. Comfortable 2-Person Box Seat C (Rows 13–15)

• Capacity: 2 people per box
• Price: ¥19,000 (tax included)
• Note: A standard 4-person box used for 2 people

2nd Floor Chair Seats

5. Chair Seat S (Rows 1–3)

• Capacity: 1 person per seat
• Price: ¥8,500 (tax included)

5. Chair Seat A (Rows 4–6)

• Capacity: 1 person per seat
• Price: ¥7,500 (tax included)

5. Chair Seat B (Rows 7–11)

• Capacity: 1 person per seat
• Price: ¥5,500 (tax included)

5. Chair Seat C (Rows 12–14)

• Capacity: 1 person per seat
• Price: ¥3,500 (tax included)

Optional

9. Souvenir Ticket

• Includes: Bento box (lunch), drinks, yakitori, and event-exclusive commemorative items
• Price: ¥5,000 (tax included)
• Note: Souvenir tickets cannot be used for entry or redemption alone. You must purchase an event ticket separately.

Kotoeko’s Farewell and Oguruma’s Inheritance Ceremony：The Ultimate Sumo Experience: From Sumo Warrior to Mentor –

As the Ultimate Sumo Experience, Kotoeko’s Farewell and Oguruma’s Inheritance Ceremony promises to be a historic and emotional event, blending sumo tradition, culture, and an unforgettable celebration. From the symbolic Danpatsu-shiki (retirement haircutting ceremony) to intense sumo matches and exclusive performances, this once-in-a-lifetime occasion at Ryogoku Kokugikan on May 31, 2025, will honor Kotoeko’s remarkable 17-year career and mark his transition into a mentorship role as Oguruma. Don’t miss the chance to witness sumo history and experience the legacy of a great warrior turned mentor!