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‘s Included
Zen meditation experience
Photos of the activity
Professional instructor
Use of a martial arts training sword
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.
Options
Samurai Experience
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Reviews
1,243 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best Samurai Experience
hoora311,
Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our experience was amazing , both sword masters who showed us the meditation technique and the sword practice were so amazing and experienced. We really enjoyed it so much . I would love if there’s more time practice with the katana. We visited on 19/Nov , We forgot to ask for the photos they were taking so I wanted to know if there’s a way to get our photos so we can keep it as a memory 🥹🤍🤍
Amazing Samurai Experience in Kyoto
jamaljaber,
Nov 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very fun experience with interesting information about the Samurai era. The house itself is an authentic samurai residence with a fascinating history. The only thing I wished for was the option to receive more of the green cutting targets, or even purchase additional ones, so we could enjoy more cuts during the experience.
Brilliant experience
116anetal,
Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was brilliant from the beginning to the end. Perhaps one of the best experiences I’ve had in Japan. Very insightful and fun.
One of my best birthdays
gatodario,
Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I totally recommend doing this if you like shonen anime and have always wanted to feel zen, even for a brief moment. This was my birthday gift and it did not disappoint. They were super organized from the start, and were super kind. The translation, the meditation, the training, everything was great. This is a new core memory for me.
Real historic and cultural immersion
P5176JDalbertor,
Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent experience, the history of the venue, the attention of the staff and knowledge and guidance of the sensei were truly amazing
Magnificent samurai experience, and no problem if you speak English.
noelbY7427MM,
Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely great, if you are curious about the world of samurai, highly recommended. Superb people over there.
WOULD DO IT AGAIN :)
Guide46856652162,
Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a really good time! Instructor and translators were very friendly and informative about the history of this art! We got an opportunity to cut some things as well :) Such a good time. Would def do it again and bring a friend!
Best experience ever
Guillermo V,
Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00AMAZING, going to this place was like leaving a dream, unforgetable. The staff and the senseis were very kind, they are true samurai warriors
Incredible and authentic experience!
tinylimb0rt,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This turned out to be one of the most amazing experiences of our trip. The location is tucked away in the backstreets of a Kyoto neighbourhood in an unassuming house. All the staff were so friendly, welcoming, and helpful from start to finish. We were dressed in traditional clothes and had some practice sessions before getting to cut soaked foam with real samurai swords. Afterwards there was a short Zen meditation, which we really enjoyed too. The staff also took photos throughout with their DSLR camera and sent them all to us afterwards free of charge. The photos were brilliant and they captured some fantastic action shots! The whole experience felt incredibly authentic and personal, with a small group that made it feel really intimate. So glad we did this!
A must
andreia403,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a very authentic experience, totally worth it even though it is a bit more exepensive than others. I would definitely recommend it, it is very professional and you really feel like you're learning the history, the swords, meditation. It remains the no.1 experience during our 2 weeks trip to Japan
From ¥18,000
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