Samurai Training—My Class Is Not a Tourist Trap(Tax Included)

As someone who’s passionate about preserving Japan’s rich samurai heritage, I’m excited to offer an authentic training experience that goes beyond typical tourist traps. At our private dojo, you’ll learn from a knowledgeable master, honing traditional sword techniques and bushido philosophy through personalized lessons. With a cap of 10 students per session, you’ll enjoy a supportive, immersive environment – and with a 99% recommendation rate, you can trust this is a genuine opportunity to connect with Japan’s captivating samurai legacy. Intrigued? Let me tell you more.

Key Points

1. Authentic and immersive samurai training experience led by a knowledgeable Master Sumida in a private dojo near Tokyo.
2. Comprehensive instruction on proper sword techniques, including stance, grip, slicing motions, thrusts, and blocks using a safe wooden sword.
3. Opportunity to practice offensive and defensive moves during a supervised mock duel, blending historical knowledge with practical application.
4. Personalized lessons with a maximum of 10 students per session, ensuring individualized attention and feedback.
5. A highly rated experience with a 99% recommendation rate and 4.9 rating, offering an authentic samurai training session without the tourist trap concerns.

A Private and Authentic Samurai Experience

Though I’d read about samurai culture before, actually experiencing it in a private dojo near Tokyo was an unparalleled opportunity.

The dojo, tucked away on the third floor, felt like a hidden gem. Donning the traditional training uniform, I gripped the wooden sword and learned proper techniques from the knowledgeable and passionate Master Sumida.

The lessons covered sword assembly, historical context, and etiquette. Most thrilling was the mock duel, where I could practice offense and defense in a safe, controlled environment.

This immersive experience provided a comprehensive understanding of the samurai way, far beyond what books could convey.

Proper Sword Techniques and Attire

Gripping the wooden sword, I followed Master Sumida’s instructions on proper sword techniques. He emphasized the importance of stance, grip, and blade positioning.

We practiced slicing motions, thrusts, and blocks, all while wearing the traditional training uniform. The cloth pants and jacket restricted movement, forcing me to use precise, controlled motions.

Master Sumida provided constant feedback, correcting my form and offering tips to improve balance and power. By the end, I felt comfortable handling the sword, understanding how the weight and length affected my movements.

This hands-on training was essential for understanding the discipline of the samurai.

Comprehensive Samurai History

As Master Sumida guided us through the comprehensive history of the samurai, I gained a deeper appreciation for their revered warrior culture.

From the origins of the samurai class in ancient Japan to their pivotal role in shaping the country’s politics and society, the class provided a fascinating overview.

We learned about the samurai’s strict code of honor, known as bushido, which emphasized virtues like loyalty, discipline, and moral rectitude.

Handling the real katana sword, I understood its symbolic significance in samurai life.

The history lesson enriched the physical training, making it a truly immersive experience.

Mock Duel and Offensive/Defensive Moves

After learning the proper sword techniques, we had the opportunity to engage in a mock duel to practice our offensive and defensive moves. Under the watchful eye of Master Sumida, we took turns attacking and defending, applying the footwork and strikes we had studied. The experience was thrilling, as we navigated the delicate dance of swordplay, anticipating our opponent’s next move.

Offensive Moves	Defensive Moves
Overhead Strike	Parry
Side Strike	Dodge
Thrust	Redirect
Disarm	Counterattack

The mock duel allowed us to bring the samurai arts to life, blending historical knowledge with practical application. It was a highlight of the class, cementing our understanding of these ancient warrior traditions.

High Ratings and Traveler Recommendations

The overwhelmingly positive reviews and traveler recommendations speak to the exceptional nature of this samurai training experience.

With a 99% recommendation rate and a 4.9 rating from 80 reviews, it’s clear that participants are thoroughly impressed. They praise the knowledgeable and passionate instruction, highlighting the engaging and informative classes that balance physical training with cultural education.

Travelers consistently note the authenticity of the experience, the emphasis on safety, and the enjoyment of the sparring sessions.

This is no tourist trap – this is an immersive, memorable journey into the world of the samurai.

Personalized Lessons and Inclusions

What sets this samurai training class apart is its personalized approach and comprehensive inclusions.

The 3-part session covers swordsmanship, history, and etiquette in detail. You’ll receive individualized feedback throughout the lessons to perfect your technique.

And the class provides all the necessary equipment – a practice uniform, bokken, and even a real sword. They’ll ensure the clothes fit you properly by gathering your height and weight ahead of time.

With a maximum of 10 students per session, you’ll get the attention you need to become a true samurai warrior.

Meeting Point and Facility Information

To get to the dojo, it’s located at 3-chōme-14-14 Haramachida, Machida, Tokyo 194-0013, Japan.

The dojo is on the 3rd floor, so you’ll need to use the stairs on the left side of the sword shop.

Be sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early to avoid inconveniencing other guests.

Keep in mind that facility charter fees apply if you want to rent the space exclusively.

The class isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

Just be aware that infants must sit on laps, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Participant Considerations and Instructor Feedback

Although the class is not wheelchair accessible, it is located near public transportation. While infants are allowed to sit on laps, this experience is not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Considerations	Notes
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Age/Health Restrictions	Not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions; infants allowed on laps
Cancellation Policy	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience
Instructor Feedback	Participants praised the knowledgeable and passionate instruction of Master Sumida
Review Themes	Authentic training, safety emphasis, enjoyable sparring sessions

The reviews highlight the engaging and informative nature of the class, with participants noting the balance of physical training and cultural education.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Expected for the Samurai Training Experience?

Gratuity is not required for this samurai training experience. The pricing is transparent, and the focus is on providing an authentic culture rather than an expectation of additional tips.

What Is the Class Cancellation Policy in Case of Inclement Weather?

The class has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time, so if the weather’s bad, I can easily reschedule without penalty. That gives me peace of mind to enjoy the experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?

There are no specific dietary restrictions or accommodations for this experience. The focus is on the hands-on samurai training, so any dietary needs should be managed privately before or after the class.

Can Participants Purchase or Take Home the Training Swords?

While participants can use the practice swords (bokken) during the class, they are not permitted to purchase or take them home. The real swords are only handled under the instructor’s supervision for safety reasons.

Is Photography or Videography Allowed During the Training Session?

Photography and videography are allowed during the training session, but you’ll need to ask the instructor first. They want to make sure it doesn’t disrupt the class or safety. Just check with them when you arrive.

The Sum Up

This samurai training class isn’t just a tourist attraction. You’ll learn genuine sword techniques, study the philosophy of bushido, and engage in thrilling mock duels. With personalized lessons and a small group size, you’ll get a truly immersive experience led by an expert instructor. At a great value with all taxes included, this is a unique chance to connect with Japan’s iconic samurai heritage.