Kyoto’s Kendo Samurai Experience Tour offers an immersive cultural opportunity to engage with Japan’s storied martial arts tradition. Over 2.5 hours, participants don authentic Kendo armor and learn the fundamentals of this time-honored sword fighting practice under the guidance of a seasoned English-speaking instructor. From etiquette to spiritual growth, this safe and well-organized experience provides a unique glimpse into the world of the Samurai. Those seeking a physically active and insightful adventure into Japan’s rich history will find this tour particularly captivating.

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Key Points

A 2.5-hour immersive experience in traditional Japanese swordsmanship, starting from $118.04 per person.
Engage in real Samurai sword fight practice while wearing full Kendo armor under the guidance of a professional English-fluent instructor.
Learn the fundamentals of Kendo, with a focus on etiquette and bamboo sword strikes, in a tranquil dojo setting.
Gain a deep understanding of Samurai traditions and techniques through this culture experience.
Suitable for physically active individuals interested in traditional Japanese swordsmanship, with an overall rating of 5/5 from customer reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kendo Samurai Experience Tour, located in Kyoto, offers participants a 2.5-hour immersive experience in the art of traditional Japanese swordsmanship.

Priced from $118.04 per person, the tour allows guests to engage in real Samurai sword fight practice while wearing full Kendo armor and learning from a professional instructor fluent in English.

The training takes place in a tranquil dojo, focusing on etiquette and bamboo sword strikes.

Availability and cancellation policies allow for flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Looking for more options in Kyoto? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What to Expect

Participants of the Kendo Samurai Experience Tour can expect to engage in real Samurai sword fight practice.

They’ll wear full Kendo armor and learn swordsmanship from a professional instructor fluent in English. The training takes place in a tranquil dojo, focusing on etiquette and bamboo sword strikes.

Guests will learn the fundamentals of Kendo, a Japanese martial art that emphasizes the spiritual development of the practitioner.

This unique experience allows participants to enjoy the traditions and techniques of the Samurai, providing a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Inclusions

The Kendo Samurai Experience Tour includes a professional guide/instructor who leads the participants throughout the activity.

Rental of Kendo armor and equipment is provided, ensuring a fully immersive experience. Participants will also receive free mineral water and a complimentary Kendo towel.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free experience. These inclusions aim to create a well-rounded and enjoyable Kendo training session for participants, allowing them to focus on mastering the art of Samurai swordsmanship without worrying about the logistical details.

Suitability

This Kendo Samurai Experience Tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Participants must provide their gender and height to ensure appropriate equipment sizing.

The tour is best suited for:

Physically active individuals
Those interested in learning traditional Japanese swordsmanship
Individuals without significant mobility limitations
Participants who can follow instructions and safety protocols
Customers seeking an immersive cultural experience in a tranquil dojo setting.

Given the physical nature of the activity, the tour may not be appropriate for all visitors to Kyoto.

However, for those who meet the suitability requirements, it promises an unforgettable Samurai sword fighting experience.

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Customer Feedback

According to the available customer feedback, the Kendo Samurai Experience Tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 10 customer assessments.

Reviewers highlight the tour’s excellent organization and the expertise of the local instructor. One customer described it as a "must-do for safe bamboo sword practice," praising the enjoyable atmosphere of the small dojo.

Positive comments emphasize the quality of instruction and the overall experience, with one reviewer calling it a "very well organized" tour.

The feedback suggests the Kendo Samurai Experience Tour provides an exceptional culture in Kyoto.

There's plenty more to explore in Kyoto

Preparing for the Experience

Before embarking on the Kendo Samurai Experience Tour, you will need to provide their gender and height details. This ensures the appropriate Kendo armor and equipment are available.

The tour also has the following participant requirements:

Minimum age of 12 years old
Ability to stand for the duration of the 2.5-hour experience
No medical conditions that could be aggravated by physical activity
Willingness to follow the instructor’s safety guidance throughout the session

With these prerequisites met, participants can look forward to an immersive Samurai sword fighting practice in a traditional Japanese dojo setting.

Taking in the Kendo Tradition

As participants arrive at the tranquil dojo, they’re greeted by the tour’s professional Kendo instructor fluent in English.

The instructor leads them through donning the full Kendo armor, explaining the etiquette and significance of each piece.

Once suited up, participants engage in introductory sword strikes, learning the proper form and techniques.

The instructor emphasizes the mental discipline and respect intrinsic to the Kendo tradition.

Participants then practice coordinated movements, building towards engaging in real Samurai sword fight practice.

The dojo’s serene atmosphere heightens the immersive experience of this centuries-old Japanese martial art.

Memorable Moments and Reflections

The tranquil dojo provides the perfect backdrop for participants to fully enjoy the Kendo tradition. From the moment they don the traditional Kendo armor, they’re transported to a world of ancient Japanese warrior culture.

Key memorable moments include:

Perfecting the precise strikes with the bamboo sword under the guidance of the skilled instructor
Feeling the rush of adrenaline during the one-on-one sparring sessions
Appreciating the meditative focus required to execute each movement with grace and precision
Gaining a deeper understanding of Kendo’s philosophical principles, like perseverance and respect
Bonding with fellow participants over their shared experience of this unique cultural activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Sword or Equipment?

No, participants cannot bring their own swords or equipment. The tour provides all the necessary armor and bamboo swords for the Kendo experience, ensuring safety and proper instruction during the session.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no minimum age requirement, but participants must be at least 10 years old. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Experience?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the experience, but they should ask the instructor for permission first. Some activities or areas may have restrictions on photography and filming.

Do I Need Any Prior Kendo Experience?

No, you don’t need any prior Kendo experience. The tour provides full training and equipment so beginners can safely learn swordsmanship under the guidance of a professional instructor. The experience is suitable for those new to Kendo.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts or group rates. However, it’s worth checking if the provider offers any deals or packages, especially for larger groups. Customers are encouraged to inquire about potential savings when booking the Kendo Samurai Experience.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto Kendo Samurai Experience Tour provides an immersive and authentic introduction to traditional Japanese swordsmanship. Guided by a professional instructor, participants learn the fundamentals of Kendo, exploring the etiquette and spiritual aspects of this martial art. With full Kendo armor and a serene dojo setting, this cultural experience offers a unique insight into Samurai traditions, making for an unforgettable and memorable adventure.