Samurai Experience - Learn Bushido through Kendo, in Tokyo
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
If your goal is just cosplay, this isn’t for you. This is where Samurai train Mind and Skills, grounded in the strength of Bushido. In two hours, you’ll take your first true step as a samurai.
Kendo means “the way of the sword” in Japanese. It began as the samurai’s method of training in sword combat, wearing armor and striking with bamboo swords. In the world of the samurai, where a blink could mean death, even the slightest disturbance of the mind was fatal, so they trained the mind as well.
You’ll begin with an introduction to kendo’s history, philosophy, and rules. Learn proper etiquette, then train in the three key elements of kendo: spirit, sword, and body in unison. Practice striking techniques, step into real sparring matches, and witness the instructor’s skills in a true kendo bout.
This is for those who truly wish to take their first step toward becoming a samurai.
Every step into this dojo is a step into the way of the warrior.
Awaken your Strength in Bushido.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
◉Your Instructor, Daichi Daichi, with 19 years of kendo training, lets you feel the true battle of the mind. As an active kendo practitioner, he demonstrates authentic techniques only possible from real, ongoing practice. ◉About the Dojo Train in a genuine Japanese dojo where Japanese practitioners hone their sword skills — a place where the spirit of Samurai truly lives. ◉FAQ Q: Will I get photos from the session? A: Yes. A photographer will take both photos and videos, and we’ll send you the data by email after the experience. Q: I don’t speak Japanese. Is that okay? A: Absolutely. Your instructor, Daichi, has overseas work experience and speaks fluent English. Feel free to ask any questions anytime. Q: Do I need to bring anything? A: Nothing at all. We even provide T-shirts and pants to wear under the kendo uniform — just bring your samurai spirit. Q: I’m not athletic and have no martial arts experience. Can I still join? A: Yes, no problem at all. Over 90% of our participants are beginners. We keep the group small and teach slowly and carefully, so anyone can join comfortably.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
souvenir
Kendo attire rental, Bamboo sword (shinai) rental, Japanese cultural experience tools rental
Guide
Snacks
Options
Kendo Spirit
Duration: 2 hours
Reviews
87 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Truly once in a lifetime experience
H6945VGfrancesc,,Dec 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Please don’t skip this one! Absolutely phenomenal experience, and one of my all time favorite things to have done while traveling, and I travel a lot :) Daichi and Makoto are incredibly knowledgeable, kind, encouraging, and fun. They are themselves skilled kendo practitioners from childhood, and their love for kendo is reflected in their program that they’ve meticulously crafted. You get a seamless blend of cultural learning and firsthand practice/experience with very careful (and high energy) instruction. Bonus: they also take amazing photos to help document memories, and this makes for a great workout to complement all the good food in Tokyo
Well worth the time, learn kendo!
tonycG3483XU,,Dec 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great instructors, lots of fun! Great dojo, all equipment provided. Fantastic value for the money and time well spent. Arigato!
Fantastic introduction to Kendo!!
kpbelshaw42,,Dec 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fascinating 2 hours learning the basics of Kendo. Daishi was a wonderful sensei who taught myself and one other student in a well structured and methodical way building up our technique so that we could apply it in a sparring match at the end of the class. I highly recommend the experience considering how unique it is to do this in the heart of Japan!
Excellent introduction to Kendo
Steve M,,Dec 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fantastic time learning and experiencing Kendo. Our instructors were very experienced and knowledgeable and made it easy for us to learn basic Kendo techniques. We had an excellent family friendly experience - highly recommended!
Kendo Experience!
J2114KWanasm,,Dec 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00That Kendo workshop was seriously one of the coolest things I've ever done. I learned so much about the history and how it's actually used in practice. Our host, Daichi and Makoto were fantastic and really made the experience memorable. It was a truly unique way to connect with a new skill. I'm so glad I got to be a part of it all.
Amazing experience
stefanpU306DL,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I highly recommend the experience, the instructors were super insightful, we learned alot about the history, philosophy and moves of Kendo.
Great experience even for beginners
littletapir,,Dec 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a really great experience! Not only do you learn the basics of Kendo, but you also learn some of the history behind it. Everything was as described in the breakdown, and I was even provided with a participation certificate, photos, and a small gift! I'm not an athletic person, and my stamina is very low, so I was a bit worried about taking this class, but Daichi and Makoto were both very accommodating and kind, so I was able to enjoy the class even with these limitations.
My first samurai learning experience
Getaway36329652944,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an experience I'll never forget, the Instructors kept it interesting and fun for everyone that participated, and you didn't feel left out, it's definitely worth the time and I'd love to go again some day with my family
Engaging and memorable experience.
kaia891,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The class was very informative and engaging. The instructors paid good attention to what they were doing and how to teach it. It’s a good memory to have. the experience was worth the price. It is definitely a good way to start your day
Great experience!
polag59,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time at Kendo Spirits. I learned so much about kendo, and we really enjoyed trying different techniques. It was a fun and memorable experience — highly recommended!😊
Related Experiences
Operated by Kendo Spirit