Kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover a side of Japan that few travelers experience. This samurai sword experience in Kyoto offers a unique blend of cultural tradition and martial arts practice. Wear authentic training gear, learn the basics of kendo, and handle safe, realistic swords in a setting inspired by real samurai training.
Led by an experienced instructor who have , this hands-on activity is designed for all skill levels. It provides an exciting and respectful way to connect with Japanese history and samurai culture. A memorable experience that goes beyond sightseeing and brings tradition to life.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Kendo uniform and equipment
What To Expect
Uncover the spirit of the samurai in this hands-on sword and kendo experience. Learn the history, movements, and discipline of Japan’s legendary warriors in a safe and immersive setting. Your expert instructor will guide you through basic sword-handling skills using a variety of training tools. These include bamboo practice swords, foam swords, and blunt replica blades. You will wear authentic training gear and learn real techniques used in kendo and traditional swordsmanship. No martial arts experience is needed. Your instructor will be happy to help you take photos and videos so you can remember your samurai moment.
Options
Kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto
Reviews
34 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Worth every penny
Norberto M,
Jul 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing experience, we did it as a group of four. We dressed in Samurai attire, learned how to handle katanas, learned how to fight with a kendo (bamboo stick), and even had a little sparing against each other. Matsudaira Takato Sensei was our instructor and informed us on the rich history of his klan. We definitely will do this again when we come to Kyoto, Japan again.
No tatami matt cutting
Abid Z,
Jun 20, 2025
- Viator
2.00Our instructor Taka was a great teacher. However my only issue was that the experience was advertised as having the opportunity to cut a tatami matt at the end with a katana. We never did this even though the description of the experience said we would. The main reason I booked this experience was to be able to do that and was left disappointed.
Valuable Experience
Mathew B,
Dec 29, 2024
- Viator
5.00The instructor is very patient; takes his time to explain things; and gives you plenty of time to ask questions and take pictures etc.
Must do!
Kristie N,
Dec 6, 2024
- Viator
5.00The experience was incredible! One of our highlights of visiting Japan for sure 🤩 we learnt so much about the history of samurai and got time to practice our newly learnt skills too! Lots of photo ops as well hehe - our Sensei was the best!!!
Great!
Ronin B,
Nov 23, 2024
- Viator
5.00Fun class! The instructor made sure everyone had a good time. We learned the basics of Kendo, and the samurai way. I would definitely recommend this to anyone visiting Kyoto.
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Operated by Atelier NIN