Kyoto Samurai Experience
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Experience the Way of the Samurai in Kyoto
Step into the world of the samurai with this authentic experience. Dress in traditional samurai attire and explore the history of the warrior class, before watching a captivating demonstration by our expert instructors.
Next, you’ll have the chance to practice your swordsmanship with a wooden sword, progressing to a genuine katana. Learn the art of cutting through a rolled tatami mat to refine your technique and precision.
The experience concludes with a Zen meditation session, designed to calm your mind and center your focus.
This immersive and rewarding experience offers a deeper understanding of the samurai culture and traditions, perfect for anyone looking to connect with Japan’s rich martial heritage.
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‘s Included
Zen meditation experience
Photos of the activity
Use of a genuine katana
Professional instructor
What To Expect
This is an excellent chance for visitors to get a firsthand look into the world of the samurai. Learn more about the history of Japan's warrior class and try your hand at wielding a real katana. Afterwards, practice some inward reflection with Zen meditation, used by the samurai to calm their minds during battle.
Options
Samurai Experience
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Reviews
1,125 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Absolutely wonderful...
Vishal A,
Aug 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00Absolutely wonderful experience.. my 6 year old and I had a great time. Would recommend to everyone to do in Kyoto. The entire team there was very knowledgeable and the experience was very hands on!
Super cool; fantastic team working there!
Terence M,
Aug 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00When we booked this we figured this might be touristy but it turned out to be amazingly fun! The setting is an authentic Samurai house in Kyoto (I think it's been there 260+ years). The experience is split up into two parts - an inside meditation session and then a session outside with a real Samurai. Inside, we learned a bunch about Samurai history, how they lived in the very house we were in and how they would meditate before battles. Outside, we practiced a bit with fake swords and then got four attempts with a real sword. Our 14 and 18 year old kids loved it, as did we! Highly recommend
Interesting and Enjoyable Experience
Sarah,
Jul 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00Well organized, interesting, and fun! The staff was great - knowledgeable and obviously cared deeply about the history of Samurai.
Be a man!
Matteo M,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00DA try, wonderful! Friendly staff and educational and captivating experience. Highly recommended!
A must do in Kyoto!
Joanne C,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a very authentic experience with great english translation. The master swordsman was impressive. We had a great zen experience and sword workshop. We learnt a lot of history of the samurai also. Highly recommend!!
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