In the bustling heart of Tokyo, a tranquil dojo beckons those seeking to enjoy the ancient art of Kendo. Here, an experienced instructor guides participants through a captivating Samurai Kendo Practice Experience, offering a rare opportunity to don the full armor and master the precise techniques that defined the legendary Japanese warriors. With a limited class size, this two-hour session promises an intimate and transformative journey into the very spirit of the samurai.

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Key Points

Experience traditional samurai-style kendo training in a tranquil, etiquette-focused dojo in Tokyo.
Learn fundamental striking techniques and counter moves from instructors with over 30 years of experience.
Wear full kendo armor, including the protective men, kote, do, and tare, during controlled sparring sessions.
Develop physical skills and mental discipline through the application of proper form, footwork, and awareness.
Immerse in the samurai wisdom and discipline that defines the training atmosphere within the dojo.

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Overview of the Samurai Kendo Practice Experience

Although the Samurai Kendo Practice Experience takes place in Tokyo, it’s a unique opportunity for participants to explore the rich history and traditions of this centuries-old Japanese martial art.

The 2-hour session, priced from $118.04 per person, is led by an instructor with over 30 years of experience. Participants can expect to learn basic striking techniques, engage in sparring games, and wear full Kendo armor and equipment.

The intimate group size is limited to 6 people, and the experience is available in both English and Japanese. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

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Delving Into Kendo: the Art of the Samurai

Samurai Kendo is a centuries-old Japanese martial art that participants can fully enjoy during the Samurai Kendo Practice Experience.

With an instructor who’s over 30 years of experience, guests learn the fundamentals of Kendo, including basic striking techniques and counter techniques.

Wearing full Kendo armor, they engage in sparring games, putting their newfound skills to the test.

The training environment, a traditional dojo, emphasizes tranquility and etiquette, offering a glimpse into the rich history and discipline of this revered samurai art form.

Beginners receive guidance tailored to their level, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Equipping for the Kendo Journey

To fully participate in the Samurai Kendo Practice Experience, guests must don the proper equipment. The Kendo outfit, or "bogu", includes several essential pieces:

Item	Description
Men	A protective helmet with a mask to guard the face.
Kote	Padded gloves that shield the hands and wrists.
Do	A chest protector that covers the torso.
Tare	Thigh and groin guards.

Practitioners also wield a bamboo sword called a "shinai". With this specialized gear, participants can safely engage in the dynamic strikes and parries of traditional Kendo, guided by the expert instructors.

Mastering the Fundamental Kendo Techniques

Experienced Kendo instructors guide participants through the fundamental techniques that form the foundation of this ancient martial art.

Trainees learn the basic striking moves – men (head), kote (wrists), and do (torso) – as well as countering techniques. Under close supervision, they engage in controlled sparring, applying what they’ve learned.

The instructors emphasize proper form, footwork, and awareness. Participants wear full Kendo armor, seeing the traditional practice.

Through repetition and guidance, they develop a deeper appreciation for the precision, discipline, and focus required in Kendo. This core training lays the groundwork for more advanced skills.

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Engaging in Sparring: The Essence of Kendo

After mastering the fundamental Kendo techniques, participants move on to the heart of this martial art – engaging in sparring.

Under the watchful eye of the experienced instructor, they don protective armor and pick up their bamboo swords. Adrenaline pumping, they take turns unleashing strikes and parrying blows, their movements precise and controlled.

The instructor provides feedback, encouraging players to anticipate their opponent’s moves and respond accordingly.

Through this dynamic interaction, participants truly appreciate the essence of Kendo – the art of the sword, blending physical skill with mental focus and discipline.

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The Experienced Kendo Instructors

At the core of this Kendo experience are the instructors, who possess over 30 years of expertise in the art. These seasoned practitioners hail from the prestigious Keio University Kendo program, ensuring a rich historical legacy in their teachings. They create a dojo environment steeped in tranquility, etiquette, and the thunderous strikes of bamboo swords. Beginners receive insightful guidance, while advanced participants engage in dynamic sparring sessions, all under the watchful eye of these experienced teachers. Their commitment to safety and fostering an enjoyable experience is evident in every step of the practice.

Instructor Details
Experience	30+ yrs
Education	Keio U.	Kendo
Environment	Dojo	Tranquil
Instruction Style	Beginner	Advanced

The Tranquil Dojo Environment

The training for this Kendo experience takes place in a traditional dojo, a space designed to cultivate tranquility and emphasize the art’s etiquette.

Echoing the wisdom and discipline of the samurai, the dojo’s environment reflects the reverence for this centuries-old martial tradition.

Trainees follow established protocols, moving with focused intent and respect.

The experienced instructors, graduates of a renowned university’s Kendo program, provide safe and engaging guidance.

Beginners receive tutelage akin to a real game, helping them grasp the essence of this historic art amid the dojo’s serene ambiance.

Important Considerations for Participants

To make the most of the Samurai Kendo Practice Experience, participants should ensure they’ve enough time to fully engage in the activity without feeling rushed, as the program duration may vary.

Participants should also:

Wear loose-fitting exercise clothing, as personal clothing may be required if Kendo uniforms are unavailable.
Avoid wearing glasses during training due to the headgear, and instead bring contact lenses.
Understand that the experience emphasizes tranquility, etiquette, and bamboo sword strikes in a dojo setting.
Expect to receive instructions akin to a real game, as the instructors provide safe and fun guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Kendo Experience?

The experience is open to participants of all ages, though participants should be physically able to engage in the kendo practice. Children under 12 may require parental supervision during the session.

Is It Possible to Take a Private Kendo Lesson Instead of a Group Class?

Yes, it’s possible to book a private Kendo lesson instead of a group class. The experience offers private instruction options for those who prefer a one-on-one setting with the experienced Kendo practitioners.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Kendo Equipment or Is It Provided?

The experience provides all necessary Kendo equipment, including armor and bamboo swords. Participants don’t need to bring their own gear – it’s included in the price. The instructor ensures proper fit and safety for each participant.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Kendo Practice Session?

The experience includes rental of the necessary Kendo armor and equipment, so participants don’t need to bring their own. There’s no option to extend the 2-hour duration, but the package offers enough time to learn the basics and engage in sparring.

Can Participants Keep the Kendo Equipment Used During the Experience?

No, participants can’t keep the kendo equipment used during the experience. The rental of the armor and equipment is included in the package, and they must be returned to the instructors at the end of the session.

The Sum Up

The Tokyo Samurai Kendo Practice Experience offers a chance to take in the art of Kendo and the samurai spirit. Participants don the full armor, learn essential techniques, and engage in controlled sparring under the guidance of experienced instructors. This intimate and tranquil session allows both beginners and advanced practitioners to deepen their understanding and appreciation of this centuries-old Japanese martial art.