Kyoto
The blade work in the old capital: kendo sessions in full gear, samurai sword classes from traditional-arts masters, kenbu sword-dance shows and ninja lessons sized for families. Kyoto taught these arts for centuries; the dojos still grade your stance.
Discover the authentic Kyoto Samurai Experience—learn swordsmanship, Bushido philosophy, and Zen meditation in a traditional setting for a memorable cultural encounter.
Most Popular“This was the most authentic and “non-touristy” tourist activities I’ve ever experienced, in any country. The Instructors are all legit masters of the sword, and they put on flawless performances of Japanese sword mastery. Their instruction was Read more”
Experience real samurai culture in Kyoto with a hands-on kendo and sword activity. Dress in authentic gear, learn techniques, and create lasting memories.
“Great fun, loved the introduction to the art of the sword.”
Experience authentic samurai culture in Kyoto with this hands-on sword class. Learn techniques, dress in traditional gear, and enjoy a memorable cultural activity.
“It was a really nice experience and a great, short overview of the Samurai Culture and history. The hands-on lessons were really interesting. You get familiar with the basic movements with the katana. The guide had a good mixture of seriousness and Humor :-D There…”
Discover the Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum with skip-the-line access. Enjoy engaging guided experiences, costume dress-up, and hands-on ninja star throwing.
“Very informative displays about the historical, social, and political realities of the samurai and ninja. Beautiful artifacts and fun atmosphere!”
Experience authentic ninja training in Kyoto with a 1-hour hands-on lesson led by a Japanese master. Fun, engaging, and perfect for all ages.
“Definitely an amazing experience. The teacher was very knowledge and took her time with everyone. This is kid and family friendly”
Experience traditional ninja weapon-making in Kyoto’s historic Machiya house. Create your own shuriken or kunai with expert guidance in 2.5 hours.
“The experience is something that anyone visiting Kyoto or even Japan in general, it will be an experience they will never forget. All the instructors were professional and knowledgeable on all the techniques and history of the ninja blacksmithing process. They were funny and enjoy…”
Experience Japan’s samurai culture through traditional sword dancing, demonstrations, and hands-on sword lessons at this authentic Kyoto show.
“A great learning experience about Samurai and entertaining performance.”
Experience authentic samurai swordsmanship in Kyoto, training with expert instructors in a real dojo. Small group, hands-on, unforgettable cultural immersion.
“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!”
Experience authentic ninja techniques in Kyoto with a small-group, hands-on lesson led by a master. Perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers.
“Loved it. Very informative and our sensai was patient and funny. We also got to engage with authentic weapons, not toys and did a bunch of different activities ninja would do beginning with meditation which was a nice touch. Top tier experience!”
Experience traditional Japanese culture with this immersive samurai class in Kyoto, learning sword techniques, wearing authentic costumes, and capturing memorable photos.
“This was a great activity. They did an awesome job explaining some of the history of the samurai. We learned a few basic sword moves. Everyone got dressed as a samurai and took some photos. And finished with watching a performanRead more”
Experience a private, authentic tea ceremony in a 300-year-old Kyoto samurai house, including sake tasting, kimono dressing, and photo ops for an unforgettable cultural journey.
“Great intimate tea ceremony experience. 10/10 recommend doing this. This was private and very informative, hand’s on experience, loved to see the traditional values and process of making matcha tea, recieving and learning about the culture. the sake tasting was also excellent with high quality…”
Experience authentic Samurai skills and culture in Kyoto with a hands-on sword and ninja experience, including museum tour, for a memorable day.
“It was one of the best experiences on this trip, Takto tameshigiri instructor was very helpful, holding a real sword is nerve racking, super intense. Its a must do in Kyoto”
Discover Kyoto’s samurai and ninja history with a guided tour including armor dressing, ninja star throwing, and expert insights—an immersive cultural experience.
“My tour guide was excellent! She explained everything in detail, and related how the samurai and ninja figured in Japanese history.”
Experience ninja skills in Kyoto with this family-friendly tour, including star-throwing, blowgun practice, and a museum visit for authentic fun.
“Communication was poor regarding meeting place; they also failed to mention that the museum visit ( which is a different location to the experience) is included in our tickets. This meant that some of us lost out.”
Discover the art and culture of Japan’s samurai with a 1-hour traditional show in Kyoto, including a photo session and engaging insights into history and swordsmanship.
“We had a great time learning about the history of Samurai . Saw performances. Learned few moves ;) We which we would known you can dress up for the practice . Also would been fun if a few more performances were on the stage But…”
Ten thousand shrine gates, tea poured properly and geisha lanes at dusk.