Kyoto Samurai Experience

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

English

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

4.95

1,321 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

1278

Great Experience
575vincenta,,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Kyoto Samurai Experience was a great time. From the samurai demonstration and training to the quiet meditation. Also the teaching of some basic knowledge about the Samurai, katanas, and the house we were in. The staff was welcoming and made the experience great for those involved.
Was awesome fun! Very...
kylehowlettapple,,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Was awesome fun! Very cool to be in an ancient samurai house,lots of details onnthe history of the samurai and shoguns
An excellent experience
703cl menth,,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
An excellent experience, with a very informative introduction to the history and lifestyle of the samurai. The master’s demonstration was impressive, followed by a practical course in traditional dress, both accessible and rewarding. The experience concluded with the observation of ancient swords, a fascinating moment. Thank you to the whole team on site. We highly recommend this activity.
Enjoyable and educational experience.
lunibean,,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Really fun and educational experience in learning three basic sword moves of a samurai. There’s also zen meditation at the end and sword appreciation. There’s venue in itself was interesting and we gathered more knowledge on samurai houses. All in all an interesting and enjoyable experience which we were happy to have done.
A must for those who enjoy samurai and katana!
shayl884,,Feb 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was such an awesome experience and one of my favorite memories from my first trip in Japan. It was a last minute, impromptu decision that worked out great. I booked the trip before I went to Fushimi Inari early in the morning. Because my laptop was still on EST, I accidentally booked for later that same day, when I intended to go the following day. I reached out immediately and luckily they could reschedule me to the next day. I walked from Gion to the experience. It was roughly 30 or 40 minutes and I enjoyed the architecture of the surrounding temples and buildings. The experience is hosted in the actual home of a samurai - the former warden of Kyoto's jail. The experience is led by a samurai and his lovely student does an excellent job translating. Highlights: Guided Zen Meditation Session! Handling and observing two actual antique katanas. Dressing up in the kimono and hakama! The instruction was great! The pictures are amazing! Whenever anyone asks me about my trip, I usually lead with these pictures and videos. I wanted the Samurai experience but I didn't want to feel like I was cosplaying a samurai or playing dress up. This was a very grounded, guided experience that I deeply cherish. I would love if they offered a pairing with a local kyudo experience that has a similar approach and vibe - if not a pairing, a recommendation! I didn't think to ask while I was there, but in retrospect, I bet they could have pointed me in a great direction.
Great!!
A2424QKoliverw,,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
This is a great experience, I loved the cutting and the meditating and the simple and helpful walk through practice with the swords. The only reason I’d put this as a 4/5 instead of a 5/5 is because I thought we would be cutting bamboo and how since the cutting is the main part I would’ve enjoyed that part being longer with more goes. Despite that, I still recommend! (:
Memorable experience
Brallis,,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very nice experience! They were very knowledgable and engaging, making this a memorable experience!
One of my trips highlights
27miroslavm,,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The experience is amazing, you actually feel inside Japanese tradition, the people there treat your experience with care and professionalism and make you feel part of it at all times. When practicing the sword technique they point out ways to adjust your position and swing as best as you can but they do it in a graceful manner.
Very complete experience,...
Matthieu G,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Very complete experience, interesting knowledge about the history and the samurai world, serious and in small group.
Interesting experience!
Peter V,,Feb 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very unusual and interesting experience. We really enjoyed the performance of sword master, he is also a very pleasant and nice person! The meditation part was also great and very relaxing. The only thing - we wish we had at least a few tries to practice cutting with a sword. In fact we only got one try, given that our group was very small.