Samurai School in Kyoto: Samurai for a Day

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

English

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

Full Kenbu Lesson(1.5hour)

Kenbu Full Lesson: Samurai lesson; Includes Samurai costume; (Door open: 15 minutes before start time)

Light Lesson(1hour)

Kenbu Light Lesson(1hour): 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

4.87

200 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

179

Wonderful experience
Tetyana H,
Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
The samurai experience in Kyoto was absolutely fantastic! From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in the world of samurai culture. Dressing up in traditional attire was a fun start, and we felt like true warriors as we learned sword moves and practiced techniques with expert guidance. The highlight was definitely the dance with katanas—both exhilarating and mesmerizing! We also enjoyed a live performance that brought the samurai tradition to life in a way we hadn’t expected. To top it all off, we had a photoshoot at the end, capturing memories of our time as samurai. This experience was both fun and educational, and we left feeling like we had truly stepped into history. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an exciting, hands-on cultural experience in Kyoto!
Great family fun
Nicole F,
Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
A 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
In the skin of a samurai
Camper28114662233,
Aug 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great experience to discover absolutely in Kyoto!! The Sensei were really pro and very friendly!! To do without hesitation!!
Don’t miss this unique experience!
Katie P,
Jun 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
One 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!
Fun and Informative
charisem2017,
Jun 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
What a great experience! My son and I had a great time learning about Samurai and how to use the katana. Learning the mini routine was a surprise and also fun to learn. The demonstration that followed was great to watch. This was one of the highlights of our trip.
Highly recommend
Michelle M,
Jun 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Easy 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.
Top experience, although it would be 10/10 without children
Jegohi98,
May 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The show is very picturesque, has even a touch of humor and show basics of samurai and kembu art. The worst part was that children are allowed in, and while the function is developing they are crying, watering or disturbing the other spectators. I'd understand if they were involved in the handling of the sword, but I don't think it's a good idea to allow them to be present at the performance. Regarding the part where you are taught the basics of kembu I have to say 10/10. They have a very fun way of teaching you, you learn fast thanks to them, they are very patient, understanding and make you part of this art very quickly. A standout for them!
Samurai for an Afternoon
usscyrene,
May 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
An education and an experience is best describe my afternoon here. I’ve come away with a memory and a fresh enthusiasm to learn more. A performance of samurai poetry followed by katana handling and learning a few moves. My thanks to the team at the Samurai Kenbu Theatre.
We were taught how to...
Jeanne T,
Apr 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We 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
- Review from Viator
5.00
We 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!