Choose for your trip
Toei Oedo Line (no transfer)
From Ueno-okachimachi Station to Ryogoku: 3 stops. Ueno-okachimachi is a separate station from JR Ueno, about 5–10 minutes’ walk south. Oedo Line Ryogoku is next to the Edo-Tokyo Museum side.
JR via Akihabara
From JR Ueno take the Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku Line 2 stops to Akihabara, then the yellow Chuo-Sobu local line 2 stops to Ryogoku. JR Ryogoku is the station for the Kokugikan sumo arena.
Walk
About 3 km, roughly 40 minutes. Reasonable on a fine day if you want to see Okachimachi and Kuramae on the way.
| Option | Stops / transfers | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toei Oedo Line | 3 stops, no transfer | Edo-Tokyo Museum, Hokusai Museum | Start from Ueno-okachimachi, not JR Ueno |
| JR lines | 2 + 2 stops, change at Akihabara | Kokugikan, JR Pass holders | Change platforms at Akihabara |
| Walk | About 3 km | Fine weather, light bags | About 40 minutes |
Before you travel
Which Ryogoku exit?
JR Ryogoku West Exit is closest to the Kokugikan. The Oedo Line station has its own exits; check the museum’s access page for the nearest one.
Sumo days
On tournament days trains and the West Exit get busy around the end of the day’s bouts. Leaving a little earlier or using the Oedo Line can be easier.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct train from Ueno to Ryogoku?
Not from JR Ueno. The Toei Oedo Line runs directly from Ueno-okachimachi Station, a short walk from Ueno.
Can I use a Tokyo Subway Ticket?
Yes on the Toei Oedo Line. JR lines are not covered.
Official sources and current conditions
Reviewed 27 October 2026 against the operators’ route maps. Walking times are rounded estimates. Check timetables and fares in a route planner on the day.