Watching sumo wrestlers train at Dewanoumi Stable is one of those experiences that might feel a little unusual at first, but quickly becomes one of the most fascinating ways to understand Japanese culture beyond the usual sights. Inside the stable, training unfolds with a level of discipline, physical intensity and ritual that is quite unlike anything most visitors will have encountered before. There is no performance staged for tourists – you're observing the wrestlers in their daily routine, which makes the experience all the more compelling. Be prepared for an early start: you'll need to arrive around 8am to catch the morning training, following the stable's schedule.

Séntire’s take: This is for the curious traveller who wants to experience something genuinely different. It may feel unfamiliar at first, but give yourself time to settle into the atmosphere and you'll come away with a much deeper appreciation for the discipline and traditions behind sumo.