Kyoto Samurai Experience
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
What Makes Kyoto Samurai Experience Unique
This is more than just sword training—it’s a rare chance to step into the living history of the samurai. Set in a 260-year-old samurai residence, the experience is deeply rooted in Kyoto’s warrior past.
What sets it apart is the balance of action, atmosphere, and insight. Alongside hands-on training, guests gain meaningful context about the samurai—understanding not only how, but why these traditions were practiced.
From wearing traditional attire to practicing movements with expert instructors, each step immerses you in a way of life shaped by centuries of discipline. You’ll refine your form through sword work, then cut a target with a real iaitō.
The experience ends with Zen meditation and the chance to hold an antique samurai sword—connecting body, mind, and history. Thoughtfully designed, it offers a powerful introduction to the enduring spirit of the samurai.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
If you have questions about accessibility, please send us a message and we will be happy to help.
Please wear comfortable clothes and appropriate footwear for an athletic activity
Minors must be accompanied by an adult
Rescheduling may be possible, depending on availability, but is not allowed within 24 hours of your scheduled session.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Experience the Way of the Samurai in Kyoto Step into the world of the samurai with an immersive cultural experience at a traditional samurai residence nestled in Kyoto’s historic heart. Wear authentic attire and explore the rich legacy of Japan’s warrior class amid the serene, timeless beauty of a centuries-old setting filled with traditional architecture and tranquil gardens. Watch a dynamic sword demonstration by expert instructors skilled in classical techniques that have been passed down through generations. Then, learn samurai swordsmanship basics with a wooden practice sword, guided by dedicated teachers preserving these time-honored traditions. Test your focus and precision by cutting a target with a real iaitō training sword—an unforgettable moment connecting you to centuries of discipline, honor, and skill. The experience concludes with calming Zen meditation, inviting you to reflect on the samurai’s inner balance and philosophy. Finally, hold a genuine antique sword, feeling history in your hands. (Younger guests may observe safely.) This unique journey offers a meaningful, hands-on insight into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.
What‘s Included
Zen meditation experience
Photos of the activity
Professional instructor
Use of a martial arts training sword
Options
Samurai Experience
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Reviews
1,312 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Perfection, funny, ill do it again
Hamdan A,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The staff were extremely hilarious and they took there time teaching us basics of sword fighting, they showed us an ancient swords too!!
Can't access photos from the link provided.
ThePike100,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved the Samurai Experience , however the link that I was sent to access the photos didn't work, tried emailing to request access but no reply. I would really love to have some photos of the experience but doesn't seem possible, little bit disappointed about that to be honest
Very fun cultural...
Breanna M,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very fun cultural experience. The Katana and the tea experience was very nice. We were paired up with another family but it was still great.
Amazing
Yazeed A,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing amazing the staff and the master was excellent also the vibes i recommend it big time for any one who wants to live the samurai era
Absolutely extraordinary from start to finish
SaltyForbes,,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This immersive cultural encounter transcends the typical tourist activity and stands out as one of the most unique experiences I have ever undertaken in the world. Set within a genuine historic samurai residence, the program seamlessly blends deep cultural insight with hands on engagement, from donning traditional attire to learning the disciplined art of katana handling under patient, expert instruction. The historical context and philosophy shared throughout grounded the experience in authentic tradition, while the conclusion with calming Zen meditation provided a thoughtful and reflective finish. The staff are exceptionally knowledgeable, warm, and professional, making this both enlightening and profoundly memorable. This is not merely an activity but a rare opportunity to connect with Japan’s illustrious samurai legacy.
Should I become a sword master??
SheaA56,,Feb 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This experience was phenomenal!! We weren't sure what to expect, but the reviews do not lie. Not only was this very informative about the history of the Japanese Samurai, but you get to meet a real sword master. The translators are friendly and make you feel welcome while learning. The instructions taught for using a real sword by the sword master are easy to follow and fun! I had a lot of fun and I would recommend this to all of my friends. This doesn't feel touristy at all!
This is a Martial Experience that will send you back in time.
julianfX5261RF,,Feb 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you want traditional, backed with history, application with use of a real Katana under experienced supervision, I recommend this place. As a martial Arts Instructor of weapons this place is first class and great for the whole family. My wife isn't into martial arts and thoroughly enjoyed it. My youngest son was closely supervised and also got to use the Katana; it was a highlight of our trip for us all. Once you enter the gate you go back in time to the old Japan
Samurai master class!
Q150UPbrandons,,Feb 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience with lots of learning information. Exactly as described. Photos were a great plus! I would highly recommend this to people of all ages
The coolest experience!
767kaylal,,Feb 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This experience was phenomenal! Must do when visiting Japan. You were fully emerged in the culture and the history of it all. The atmosphere felt very natural to Japan, very cultural. The staff were very helpful, patient and willing to answer any questions! We had 2 kids and the staff with them were remarkable. I highly recommend this experience!
Awesome, genuine samurai experience. Do it!
stevenjhewitt,,Feb 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Best thing I’ve done in Kyoto so far. My wife loved it too - much to both our surprise). Wonderful to see inside an historic samurai household, sit in the traditional reception rooms and have a sword master violently slice ratan posts a mere metre away from your face. Then you get trained to handle a live katana blade and slice a post left, right and through the middle. They share the history of the samurai and social classes , the building and the family, the swords and their construction. Finally you finish with a relaxing Zen meditation with ‘singing bowls’ reverberating in the air around you. An excellent afternoon. Highly recommended.
From ¥18,000
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