Top Kansai Sports Lessons

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.

Immerse yourself in samurai history and culture with this small-group samurai experience at a traditional samurai house in Kyoto. Under the guidance of an expert sword instructor, learn the philosophies of Bushido, the "Way of the Warrior;" handle a real martial arts sword; and take part in a Zen meditation session.

Step into the exciting world of Japan's national sport with an unforgettable sumo experience in the heart of Kyoto. Your journey begins with an engaging introduction to the history, traditions, and rules of sumo. Learn why wrestlers perform ceremonial rituals, discover the meaning behind their techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for this centuries-old sport. Then, enjoy an action-packed live sumo show featuring powerful demonstrations by former professional sumo wrestlers. Watch incredible techniques, traditional ceremonies, and even some of sumo's famous forbidden moves, all explained in an entertaining and easy-to-understand way. The excitement doesn't end there! After the show, you'll have the rare opportunity to step into the ring and challenge a real sumo wrestler yourself. Experience the power, size, and skill of these incredible athletes in a fun and safe match that you'll never forget.

We are the largest international sports community in Osaka and Kansai. Come meet local Japanese and foreigners living in Osaka; we love to play sports and meet new friends. You can come alone or with friends, we will make you feel welcome!

Why Choose Our Experience: ★ Train in an authentic dojo with a master who has over 20 years of experience ★ Enjoy a more personal experience with small groups—only 6 participants per class (Disclaimer: There may be more than 6 participants if there are only a small number of parties) ★ Witness a powerful two-katana performance by the master—something you won’t see anywhere else

Witness the art of sumo like never before, led by real former professional wrestlers who lived the sport. This 90-minute program, designed by a former educator, offers an in-depth understanding of sumo's 1,500-year history, its sacred rituals, and the intricacies of the sumo world. Engage in live demonstrations, step onto the sacred ring in a real mawashi-belt, and challenge a wrestler yourself. With full English narration throughout, this is an authentic experience that respects your time and curiosity, ensuring every moment is enriching and memorable.

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.

Experience authentic Japanese sword culture through Yushin-ryu, a martial tradition rooted in Edo Yagyu Shinkage-ryu, one of Japan’s historic samurai schools connected to Yagyū Munenori. In this 60-minute hands-on experience, you will train inside a real dojo where students practice daily. After changing into traditional Japanese hakama attire, you will learn how to handle and draw a sword using a safe practice sword. You will also witness demonstrations of authentic sword techniques performed by practitioners trained under the current headmaster, often called “The Last Modern Samurai.” Yushin-ryu members continue to preserve ancient Japanese martial traditions so they are never lost to history. We also perform ceremonial sword demonstrations at historic shrines and temples in Japan. These sacred performances are traditional offerings to pray for community safety, prosperity, and good harvests. In 2025, we also performed at the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.

Experience the excitement of sumo up close with a live show in Kyoto. Watch powerful wrestlers compete while learning about the rules, traditions, and culture of Japan’s national sport from an English-speaking host. Get even closer to the action with a chance to challenge a sumo wrestler and take memorable photos together. Watch exciting live sumo matches Learn about sumo traditions and techniques Chance to challenge a sumo wrestler Take photos with the wrestlers Enjoy an authentic Japanese cultural experience in Kyoto

✅ Authentic Boxing Experience Perfect for beginners! Enjoy a fun and energizing workout with professional trainers. ✅ Local Guided Osaka Walk Explore the real Osaka – hidden streets, old neighborhoods, and spots only locals know. ✅ Efficient & Fun – Workout + Sightseeing in One Ideal for travelers short on time who want a unique, active experience.

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.

This is the ultimate ninja experience for the whole family. You’ll have a lot of fun, and increase your knowledge about ninjas too. You won’t have to worry about what to wear, as ninja outfit rental is included. Highlights include throwing ninja stars (shuriken), and using a ninja blowgun. At the end of your experience, a visit to the Samurai and Ninja Museum is included.

Experience the beauty of judo and immerse yourself in Japanese culture through its practice. Join us on the tatami mat and learn the art of respect, discipline, and self-defense. Discover the rich heritage of judo's traditions and etiquette, fostering a deep appreciation for Japanese customs. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the principles of balance, control, and mutual respect, allowing you to develop physical and mental strength. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, judo offers a unique opportunity to explore the essence of Japanese culture while enhancing your fitness and self-confidence.

➤ Location of the meeting (trial) The activity lesson is held at Samurai Honor, a one-minute walk from Osaka-jo Koen Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line, which is the entrance to Osaka Castle. ➤ Samurai wear The Japanese sword is the most effective blade to date and can only be worn by Samurai. First, change into a Samurai costume (dogi and hakama) and become a Samurai. ➤ Experience swordsmanship related to Bushido ➤ Trial Slashing Try your hand at sword cutting with a real Japanese sword! Experience the world's best cutting performance. This time, you will try cutting a rolled straw. ➤《samurai language》 This refers to the language used mainly by the samurai class during the Warring States period. Samurai valued loyalty to their lord, discipline, and the spirit of bushido, and this spirit was reflected in their language. ➤ Photography service to capture serious figures during the activity. We will send you the photo data within both days.

Feel like a Samurai warrior by taking part in a Samurai sword experience. Learn Samurai skills in a safe setting with a blunt sword and guidance from a trained professional at the Samurai and Ninja Museum. Dress the part and also get the chance to throw a ninja star. Take a free tour of the Samurai and Ninja Museum, too, with admission tickets included.

This is the only every morning yoga session by the river in Kyoto which is operated in English. As you enjoy yoga, you can enjoy the sounds of nature and beautiful air. It may help you to enjoy your time in Kyoto even more. Also, you can meet new people and enjoy communicating with people from all over the world.

Feel like a true ninja with this family-friendly immersive experience in Osaka. In addition to training and learning some basic fighting techniques from your sensai, your costume rental is included so you'll look the part, too. The small group size lets you ask the teacher as many questions as you like.

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.

Why Choose This Experience: ★ This is NOT an activity for tourists but real katana training done for local students ★ Train in an authentic dojo with a master who has over 20 years of experience ★ Witness a powerful two-katana performance by the master—something you won’t see anywhere else

Begin with an English-guided tour of an 800-year-old National Treasure temple, where you can experience the historic atmosphere and gain a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s cultural heritage. You’ll then take part in kyudo (Japanese archery) using a real yumi (Japanese bow) and arrows under careful guidance. In traditional practice, students usually spend a long time training with a rubber bow before shooting real arrows. In our experience, however, even beginners can safely enjoy the feeling of drawing the bow and releasing the arrow in an authentic setting. This is more than just an activity—it’s a unique chance to experience Japanese archery and temple culture together in a way that is both accessible and deeply memorable.

Tomoyoshi, the instructor, will give you a short lecture on how the ancient swordsmanship of Samurai developed into Kendo. He will share the heroic stories of ancient Samurai including his great-grandfather, Yoshishige Hayashi. He will also share the controversial influence of Bushido values on this nation and his family into extremism, especially during the period of WW2. He will end his story on how redemption came and led him to the current inner peace and the life of a pacifist. After the lecture, you will wear the full Kendo armor and learn the basic Kendo movements. In the end, you will get to do a Kendo match with each other. Upon completing the workshop, you will receive a beautifully designed “Certificate of Experience”. If the date you want isn't available, please contact us to inquire about availability.

Step inside a working Zen temple in Kyoto for a private cultural experience rarely available to ordinary visitors. Meet your English-speaking guide and join the resident priest for an authentic zazen meditation session inside a traditional Zen hall. Learn proper posture, breathing, and meditation practice in a quiet setting designed for reflection and mindfulness. After meditation, move to a tatami room overlooking a centuries-old karesansui Zen garden. Enjoy freshly whisked matcha tea and a seasonal Japanese sweet while the priest explains Zen philosophy, temple culture, and the meaning behind the garden’s stone arrangements and rake patterns. Your guide translates throughout the experience, helping you connect naturally with the priest and better understand the traditions of Zen Buddhism. This intimate experience offers a peaceful side of Kyoto that most travelers never see.

Learn traditional samurai fighting techniques against the scenic backdrop of Myokaku-ji Temple in Kyoto. Instead of a nondescript classroom, get striking souvenir photos and videos taken of yourself dressed in a samurai costume on temple grounds. The session is limited to six participants so you receive more personalized attention from your instructor.