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.
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.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Zen meditation experience
Photos of the activity
Professional instructor
Use of a martial arts training sword
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.
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
1,190 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Ines B,
Oct 5, 2025
- Viator
Perfect place to get to know old (samurai) Japan. The instructor is japanese who trained martial arts while the rest of the employees speak perfect english as well as japanese (which is rare).
Wendi W,
Oct 1, 2025
- Viator
We love seeing all the amazing sites around Japan but nothing beats an experience like this where you get hands on instruction and are immersed in the Samurai culture. Exceedingly well done. Instructors and masters were excellent.
Denise W,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
It was a great honor to meet the master swordsman, appreciate his skills, enjoy the experience of handling a katana and cutting, and also enjoy staying in a historical Samurai house and playing an old drum.
OLIVIA O,
Sep 24, 2025
- Viator
Very informative and fun! We got to meditate, learn history of the house and samurai, try tea and a sweet, and cut things! It was very encompassing and ticked a lot of our boxes!
Melissa W,
Sep 22, 2025
- Viator
Fun opportunity to learn a bit about samurai history! I enjoyed the history of the house, getting to wear traditional clothing, meditation practice, and of course trying my hand at a proper katana strike! Definitely a unique experience.
Operated by Kyoto Samurai Experience