6 Martial Arts Experiences in Japan Worth Booking

1.Kendo and Samurai Experience with Uniform and Gear

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 815 reviews · 2 hours · from $103Our pick

At a traditional Kyoto dojo, Taka-san guides you through samurai history, kendo basics, sword handling, and safe partner practice. You’ll dress in a full uniform and protective gear, train with bamboo or foam swords, and pose for photos and videos. The two-hour class suits beginners, families with children over seven, and curious culture seekers.

“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.”

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2.Samurai Sword & Archery Class from Samurai Descendant

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 603 reviews · 3 hours · from $193Top rated

At Toyama-Ryu BIZENKAI near JR Machida Station, Yoshioki Sumida and his assistant teach sword handling, iai forms, sparring, target cutting, and Japanese horseback archery. You wear dojo training clothes, handle practice weapons, try a bow, and learn samurai customs in a shared three-hour class conducted in Japanese and English.

“This was the best thing I did on my trip. Sensei was amazing, very helpful and explained everything in lots of detail.”

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3.Samurai Training Experience KENDO in Osaka

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 515 reviews · from $131

Meet Toshi and Kumiko at a central Osaka dojo for a two-hour English-language introduction to kendo. You’ll learn samurai history, change into a uniform and armor, practice with a bamboo sword, spar under careful guidance, and receive digital photos and videos. Showers, changing rooms, heating, and air conditioning add comfort.

“Wonderful class. Perfect birthday activity for a kid who enjoys anything related to the Samurai. The instructors were patient and connected well with my son. It was a very comfortable environment with knowledgeable instructors.”

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4.Japanesel Archery Experience HIROSHIMA CASTLE SHARAKU

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 387 reviews · from $43

At Hiroshima Castle Sannomaru Ruins, you’ll dress in dogi and hakama, learn the formal steps of kyudo, and shoot a Japanese bow under close instruction. The session lasts about an hour, welcomes complete beginners, and may use a translation app when needed. Expect practice rounds, target shooting, and possibly a friendly competition.

“Such a fantastic experience! The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, which made the learning curve feel easy and enjoyable. Wearing the outfit was so much fun, and we got to shoot plenty of arrows. I’d highly recommend this to anyone curious about trying a new style of archery!”

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5.Traditional Japanese Archery Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 351 reviews · 1 hour · from $41Best value

At Hiroshima Castle SHARAKU, you’ll dress in dogi and hakama, learn kyudo’s precise movements, and shoot arrows at a small target range. The one-hour session suits complete beginners, with English support through translation apps when needed. Groups are limited to four, and instructors such as Kenji-san add patient guidance, friendly contests, and occasional samurai background.

“The experience entailed instruction in the fine detail of loading and firing the arrows. As a history enthusiast, I would have liked to hear some history of the use of archers on the battlefields of Japan. Still a worthwhile experience.”

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6.Samurai Training Experience KENDO in Osaka

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 111 reviews · 2 hours · from $127

Spend two hours with Toshi, also known as Toshihiko, and his friendly assistant team in a real Osaka dojo. You’ll learn Samurai history, Kendo etiquette, footwork, strikes, blocks, and match rules before wearing full armour and sparring. The session ends with Samurai photos, and beginners are welcome.

“I truly enjoyed this activity. Staff taught us about history of samurai and kendo. And we competed with other guests!!! It was also fun 🤩 If there is anyone who wants to experience Japanese culture, I highly recommend this experience!!!!”

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