Kyoto · SAMURAI & KENDO EXPERIENCES
These are the 15 samurai & kendo experiences worth a day of the trip, each with its price, its length and the detail that sets it apart. If you only compare a few, compare the top three.
Learn Bushido, wear a kimono, handle a katana, and practice Zen meditation in a historic Kyoto samurai house.
“We love seeing all the amazing sites around Japan but nothing beats an experience like this where you get hands on instruction and are immersed in the Samurai culture. Exceedingly well done. Instructors and masters were excellent.”
Train in kendo, wear samurai gear, and practice sword skills in a 120-year-old Kyoto machiya with an English-speaking instructor.
“Very good guide & very interactive. We were made to feel welcome and no one was left out of any activity. Got to dress up & learn about the Samurai. A fun & engaging 2 hours.”
Kyoto’s Samurai Ninja Museum pairs feudal history with armor, replica swords, and shuriken throwing in a lively one-hour guided visit.
“Fun short tour of samurai and ninja history, kids loved throwing stars and dressing in samurai gear at the end of the tour. Takes about an hour.”
Learn samurai sword movements, dress in traditional costume, pose for photos, and watch a Kembu performance during this Kyoto class.
“absolutely loved this. Such a fun experience. I have a great video and photos to remember it.”
Learn ninja breathing, stealth walking, sword skills, shuriken, kunai, and blowgun techniques in a small Kyoto dojo class.
“My family enjoyed this activity. We all had fun. My 10 year old loved learning about all the Ninja weapons. Instructors spoke excellent english.”
Forge a real-steel shuriken or kunai in Kyoto with English-speaking instructors, kanji engraving, blacksmith tools, and a take-home box.
“We had a fabulous time with our kids (12 and 15). The guides were friendly and attentive. It was challenging and fun to forge and sharpen the weapons and the kunai and shuriken will be awesome keepsakes. We really enjoyed this activity and would highly recommend”
See Kyoto samurai sword dancing, hear English-narrated tales, and try basic katana movements in this intimate one-hour cultural show.
“Excellent. A lot of fun. Interactive. Learned a lot and enjoyed. Would recommend to others. We were in a small group. Length of time was perfect.”
Train in a real Kyoto dojo with Yushin Sensei and Jordan, learn samurai etiquette and katana forms, and watch a two-sword demonstration.
“Absolutely a top highlight of our trip! Jordan and Sensei Yushen were friendly, fun and provided a safe, great samurai experience in an actual dojo! They spoke English and Japanese. A must do if you visit Kyoto!”
Train in Kyoto with a Japanese ninja master, wear ninja clothing, handle traditional weapons, and learn meditation, sword skills, and more.
“Our family had an amazing time! Our instructor was tons of fun and knowledgeable. We got to experiment with many Ninja weapons and learned lots of Ninja techniques. The gift shop was great for our Ninja purchases. Fun for all ages!!! Highly recommend!”
Train in Kyoto’s samurai arts, wear traditional costume, practice sword movements, take photos, and watch a skilled kenbu performance.
“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.”
