Top Japan Martial Arts Classes

Find out what's it's like to be a ninja. This small-group beginners class in a Kyoto dojo introduces you to the basics of ninja training. You'll learn how to breathe, walk, and meditate like a ninja, practice throwing ninja weapons, and learn how to use ninja swords. It's a unique Japanese experience for all ages.

Kendo, a Japanese martial art, descends from the ancient fighting methods of samurai. In this small-group class, immerse yourself in the world of samurai through practicing kendo in a real dojo. You'll even get to wear an authentic uniform as you learn proper form and practice striking with a bamboo sword. The dojo also doubles as a museum with a variety of samurai artifacts and memorabilia.

Go beyond the ancient castles and historic sites and immerse yourself in the culture of Japan's feudal era with this private kendo experience in Kyoto. Under the careful guidance of your teacher, learn how to handle a Japanese sword like a samurai in preparation for the main event: slicing a tatami mat with a sword.

Kyudo is a Japanese martial art based on shooting an arrow from a Japanese bow to a target to reach a complete focus of mind and body. The main difference of kyudo and western archery is that, in kyudo, every movement follows a traditional routine that pays respect to the equipment and to the opponent. You will come to the archery range and dress in an authentic kyudo uniform, which will include dogi—the upper wear—and hakama—the lower wear. I'll give a brief explanation about the art of kyudo as well as instructions and demonstrations. With the knowledge you'll gain, you will learn to shoot arrows at the target. You'll also understand the fun and challenging aspect of the sport, particularly while wearing the traditional hakama and armor. Usually in kyudo, you are not allowed to pull the arrow unless you master the basics. But during our lesson, you will be able to enjoy the real kyudo experience even as a complete beginner. It will be a great time if you are looking for a nice photo or movie to show to your friends.

Ninja Cafe Takayama is a facility where visitors can have an authentic samurai/ninja experience in the conveniently located historical city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. The store displays historical helmets, swords, and tea utensils that are important for learning about old Japan. Why don't you don a ninja costume, experience authentic ninja training, and learn about the natural history of Japan and the role of the ninja? Ninja Cafe Takayama is a facility that both adults and children can enjoy. Please come to Ninja Cafe Takayama when you visit Nagoya, Gifu, or Takayama to create memories of your trip to Japan.

KenDo!-Spirit is not only about experiencing the traditional Japanese culture of kendo, but also about experiencing the heart and spirit of kendo. Through kendo, we aim to create a peaceful and better society through the characteristics of kendo, such as courtesy, courtesy, and respect for each other. We offer a full-fledged kendo experience under the guidance of a high-ranked instructor to both children and adults in a casual atmosphere! Enjoy the experience! We offer five programs for you to experience kendo. 1. You will hear about the history of kendo. 2. You will actually wear a kendo-gi and kendo gear. 3. You will learn the basics of kendo and actually practice uchikomi. 4. Watching real practice and matches by high-ranked players is a very powerful experience. 5. Participants will take photos with each other, drink tea, and have a good time. We hope you will try kendo as a memorable part of your enjoyable trip to Japan. We look forward to your participation!

Get an insider's guide to sumo wrestling in Tokyo on a tour that includes hotel pickup and handles all logistics for you. Enhance your viewing of a genuine sumo training session with cultural insights from a guide. Learn about the sport's traditions, history, and rules from your guide and visit an authentic sumo stable.

Experience Japanese martial arts like never before with Mari, a world champion Taido master and Shotokan Karate black belt. This isn’t just a workout. It’s a fun, interactive journey into the spirit and movement of traditional Japanese martial arts, designed for all ages and levels. Held in a peaceful Tokyo park, you’ll learn dynamic techniques, try unique martial arts props, and even perform a short choreography filmed as a memorable keepsake. Whether you’re a beginner or a martial arts fan, this hands-on experience offers a rare chance to connect with authentic Japanese culture in an energetic and playful way.

Step into the world of real samurai training in Kyoto! Join the Kyoto Branch of Asayama Ichiden Ryu Hyōhō, a 400-year-old Kobudo (classical Japanese budo) tradition still practiced today. Unlike tourist sword experiences, this activity lets you train alongside actual students under authentic guidance. Feel the spirit of Japan’s warrior culture as you learn the fundamentals of Iaijutsu (quick-draw katana techniques) and Kenjutsu (Japanese swordsmanship) using bokutō (wooden katana). If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing true samurai discipline in a traditional Kyoto dojo, this is your chance. *Please note that this is not a tourist activity, but a genuine training session with actual students. As a general rule, we do not accept participants with no prior budo experience. However, if you are very eager to join, please feel free to contact us for a consultation.

Fans of samurai and ninja history—this one’s for you. Enjoy an immersive tour in Kyoto where a guide takes you around the Samurai and Ninja Museum. See preserved artifacts up close and enjoy hands-on experiences during your visit, such as wearing samurai armor, throwing a ninja star, and posing with replica swords.

Immerse yourself in the world of sumo at Sapporo's first sumo show restaurant, where history and culinary delight meet. Learn the ancient rules of sumo and witness expert demonstrations from retired wrestlers. Feel the thrill as you step into the ring for your own match, limited to a select few. Savor a hearty Chanko-nabe prepared by former sumo athletes, and enjoy an intimate view of the Dohyo from your seat. Each guest leaves with a souvenir photo alongside the wrestlers, making this a unique celebration of Japanese culture that you won’t forget.

Dive into the fascinating world of sumo wrestling with this interactive experience led by retired sumo wrestlers. Learn about sumo history, techniques, and daily life, watch live sparring matches, and even step into the ring yourself for a friendly skirmish. Complete your experience with a delicious meal of Tonkatsu and Chanko Nabe, prepared by the wrestlers, with vegetarian and dietary accommodations available upon request.

Live like a samurai with this private experience near Osaka Castle, where you’ll learn all about samurai culture and be professionally photographed in your own suit of armor. A workshop on the martial art of Iaido will teach you about Japanese swordsmanship and let you try some cool moves. You’ll also draw calligraphy and experience a samurai tea ceremony.

Prepare for battle and learn the skills of the samurai during an interactive class studying the ancient Japanese martial art of kenbu. Learn everything from basic choreography movements to more complex actions that incorporate a sword and folding fan. After your class, participate in a photo session with your samurai costume and receive a certificate of completion and a souvenir towel.

If you’re interested in Japan’s ninja culture, then this is the experience for you. Rather than just watching ninja movies or visiting a museum, this hands-on experience allows you to forge a real ninja weapon. Safely learn how to heat, hammer, and shape your weapon, with guidance from skilled craftsmen. Then, engrave your weapon and have a memorable souvenir to take home.

Authentic Dojo Environment in a Convenient Location: Train in a traditional dojo setting that transports you back in time, all while being easily accessible from the heart of the city. ！Children under 7 can not enter the samurai venue.！ ！There will be up to 22 guests per session !

Learn the art of the Japanese sword from a professional during this samurai lesson in Asakusa, Tokyo. In addition to dressing the part in a traditional samurai costume, you'll learn to bow, draw a sword, and strike in a small-group setting. Get live feedback from your instructor and take home souvenir photos of the experience.

If you haven’t been lucky enough to catch a sumo tournament in Tokyo, don’t worry—this behind-the-scenes experience lets you get closer to the wrestlers than you could watching a match. Not only do you watch a live demonstration, you also tuck into a hearty dinner with the sportsmen while you ask about their profession.

This is a traditional dojo where the 63rd Yokozuna, Asahifuji, trained his disciples for 33 years. In this authentic training space, where four Yokozuna and over ten Sekitori (elite wrestlers) have sweated and trained, you can actually experience practice and bouts with the sumo wrestlers. Sumo, Japan's national sport, has a history spanning 1,500 years. Out of this long history, only 75 wrestlers have ever achieved the rank of Yokozuna, and only about 70 of the roughly 1,000 active wrestlers are Sekitori. We offer a precious opportunity for you to stand on such a special Dohyo (sumo ring) and interact with the wrestlers trained by the 63rd Yokozuna, Asahifuji. After the training, enjoy a special time savoring Chanko-nabe (a hearty stew), the source of the sumo wrestlers' strength, together with them. Please enjoy a unique sumo experience, found nowhere else in the world.

Unlike typical sword shops, this shopping experience offers direct access to a dojo where real Kenjutsu is practiced and taught. You’ll be guided by a martial arts expert and assisted by Let's ask Shogo, a popular YouTuber with over 1.8 million followers and 10+ years of Iai (katana budo) experience. The katana you’ll see are hand-selected by a master—some crafted over 600 years ago. Whether you’re a collector, martial artist, or simply fascinated by samurai culture, this is a rare chance to discover a katana with true soul and history. *This experience is strictly intended for those who are seriously considering purchasing a Japanese katana. Please do not book a session if your only purpose is to meet Shogo or simply to look at katanas.

Get dressed up in authentic samurai armor in Kyoto and experience a rare, hands-on look at Japan’s warrior past. This three-in-one experience includes an armor fitting, a traditional calligraphy session, and a premium matcha tea experience to help you do more in less time. Also, to ensure you have well-composed images of your time in armor, the on-site staff can help take your photos.

Learn about Japan’s fascinating samurai and ninja history through a museum tour, where you’ll see real clothing and equipment used by these legendary figures. Don’t struggle to understand the explanation plaques, as you’ll get a guided tour in English. Get the chance to dress up in samurai costume (or typical women’s dress if you prefer), learn how to use a samurai sword, or experience non-martial traditional activities.

Skip the tourist traps and immerse yourself in an authentic samurai experience at a dojo just outside Tokyo. Learn proper technique while dressed in traditional training clothes, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the blade by learning about samurai history. Then, you practice your skills by slashing, sparring, and using the bow and arrow.