Samurai School in Kyoto: Samurai for a Day
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Learn about the etiquette of samurai classes in feudal Japan and practice some basic Kenbu, including how to use the Japanese sword. Full Kenbu lesson to learn choreographed movements with a sword and folding fan. Top off your experience of this traditional Japanese art with a photo session in costume, and take home a certificate of achievement.
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 pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For safety reasons, please follow the instructor's instructions on the day.
Please arrive 10 minutes to 3 minutes prior to the start time.
On the day of the event, please come to the first basement floor from the stairs on the right side of the GOZAN building.
If participants are between the ages of 5 and 11, it is preferable that they are attending some kind of class or martial arts school.
Please wear clothes suited for exercise and moving around. Visiting in a single hoodie or tights is not suitable for costume changes
If you wish to cancel a reservation, you must do so yourself on Viator.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Lesson completion certificate
Photo shoot
English-speaking local guide/instructor
Tenugui towel (Japanese traditional towel)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Gratuities
What To Expect
Learn about the etiquette of samurai classes in feudal Japan and practice some basic Kenbu, including how to use the Japanese sword. Introduction to the basics, to learn choreographed movements with a sword and folding fan. Top off your experience of this traditional Japanese art with a photo session in costume, and take home a certificate of achievement.
Options
Light Lesson(1hour)
Kenbu Light Lesson(1hour): Samurai lesson; Includes samurai costume; (Door open: 15 minutes before start time)
Full Kenbu Lesson(1.5hour)
Kenbu Full Lesson: Samurai lesson; Includes Samurai costume; (Door open: 15 minutes before start time)
Samurai class & Mini-show
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Class, Kimono, & Mini-show
Samurai class & Show
with kimono rental
Duration: 2 hours
Reviews
199 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great family fun
Nicole F,
Oct 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00A lot if fun with my 17 year old son, who has no patience for museums or long explanations. The workshop was hands on, with a sword and costume, exactly what we needed to get a taste and some knowledge about Samurai s
Don’t miss this unique experience!
Katie P,
Jun 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00One of the highlights of our trip to Japan! My husband and I had the best time not only dressing in traditional outfits but also learning the moves and performing for each other. 10/10 experience!
Highly recommend
Michelle M,
Jun 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00Easy to find venue. The show was delightful and it wasn’t too crowded. Afterwards, my family and one other family got to learn how to use katana. We chose what we wanted to wear as traditional garb. We had plenty of time to take pictures. Highly recommend.
We were taught how to...
Jeanne T,
Apr 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00We were taught how to wear the samurai costume and how to use the katana. We absorbed a lot about traditional Japanese samurai culture and respectfully watched a mini show after our lesson. Terrific experience for those interested.
Great Experience! Totally worth it!
David M,
Apr 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00We got dressed and trained in Samurai techniques for close to 1 1/2 hrs and then got to see their show. Great experience and very fun with a very patient teacher. Totally worth it!
Related Experiences
Operated by Ginbu Co., LTD. (former name: Samurai Kenbu Co., LTD.)