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
1,287 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A Very Humbling and Incredible Experience
Kyle V,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Overall the experience was so fun and humbling. The staff do their best to bring you back in time for an amazing samurai experience. Not only do you get to handle an authentic Japanese Katana, but you learn about the culture of their lifestyle as well. It truly changed our perspectives on Japanese culture.
Highly recommend
L5201PRambers,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very exciting experience to learn from a swords master and try cutting foam! I learnt a lot during the meditation too. You also get to see old swords and armour and you’re inside a house from the 1600s which is beautiful to see. Highly recommend! It’s a great location in Kyoto too!
The staff is very...
AbdelKodir D,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly, we felt welcomed from the start. A very insightful and fun experience!
Great. Let’s do it again.
Venture53033823795,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The house was amazing, the swordsman was amazing, and we all enjoyed the katana experience… was the highlight for our 15 year olds - their words not mine.
Wonderful experience!
MelissaKatzenstein,,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful! The best tour we had in Tokyo hands down. Communication was great, hands on, including other experiences such as sound bath and music. Loved it
Amazing experience!
Sarah B,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00My husband and son attended this and said it was one of the highlights of our trip. The master swordsman was kind, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable. The experience was hands-on and engaging, and my husband and son walked away having learned so much about samurai and Japanese history. They loved every minute.
Unforgettable
Stay26596563961,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Simply amazing experience, worth every penny! You learn to use a Japanese sword with a sword master and you learn about the history of samurai. It was a lot of fun.
Samurai and wielding a sword
L6904JDkirstys,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fabulous experience. Getting dressed as Samurai is a little cheesy but sets the mood right off the bat!! The staff are very knowledge and experienced. Being able to learn how to use a sword and cut some foam was an experience. Hearing about the Samurai was very interesting. The Sen meditation at the end was great. Highly recommend.
Best experince of japanese culture in Kyoto
mohammedrezas136,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was very nice, everything well planed and nice staff. Thank you for the experience. It was not only the Katana experience but history ans spiritual as well.
Great capsule tour to learn about the history of Japan
roop k,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Went with the family and enjoyed the entire show, our tour guide had a lot of energy, was knowledgeable and helpful. The experience of dress up was quite nice too with backgrounds that look very real.
From ¥18,000
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