Samurai Training with Modern day Musashi in Kyoto
Recommended by 100% of travelers
Kyoto, Japan
- 1 hour 45 minutes (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Explore our promoted experiences
Overview
What's Included
- Training zinc alloy katana and training gear
- Bottled water
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 452-4 Matsugaechō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8034, Japan
We’re located next to “Red Rock Kyoto" on Rokkaku-Dori (Rokkaku Street). You’ll see signs for our dojo out front, and the entrance is behind a blue vending machine and down a spiral staircase that has the dojo name written in mirrored characters on a blue Japanese style gate.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- You must be 12 years or older to participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
5.0
based on 293 reviews
ARRON_S, May 2026
An absolutely amazing experience today. Being a martial artist for different styles I can appreciate the skill and techniques of the Sensei and his students on this once in a lifetime experience. The class was well thought through, very easy to follow but detailed enough to appreciate. Thank you for making my trip to Japan extremely special.
Cheryl_W, May 2026
The session was handled professionally with Sensei and instructing senior student in their Dojo. There was clear and easy instruction and we received an appreciation of the Samurai, their environment and blade history and use. We were taught one kata with a Katana which was a lot of fun and shown much more. A great session and one I would repeat again.
Melinda_C, May 2026
This is a wonderful opportunity to be taught in a real dojo with a real sensei and one of my most enjoyable experiences in Japan. Yoshino Sensei’s student, Jordan, did a great job interpreting and running through sheathing and unsheathing, then teaching a mini kata. There was an exam after with Yoshino Sensei grading. There were also explanations on traditions, methods, terms, and a very special demo of katas by Yoshino Sensei. Letting tourists handle real katanas was recently made illegal so don’t expect to take a try at rolled up bamboo mats, but both Jordan and Yoshino Sensei showed how it’s done and I was more than happy. It was a great blend of lecture and participation, a genuine experience not a tourist trap. If that’s what you’re looking for, this will be a couple of hours you will cherish.
Alistair_H, May 2026
Real dojo experience learning sword technique. Very well done with Sensei Yushin , Jordan (English) and Ken
Ralph_H, Apr 2026
Hi went to the Yushinkan dojo in Kyoto and done some hands on training with sensei Yoshi was a great experience actual learned how to do the basic moves with a real katana sensei Yoshi and his student Jordan worked with us and by the end we all were doing the moves.
If anyone wants to do this sort of thing this is the place as it’s a proper dojo you will have a great experience doing it.
Ralph Havard
Jonathan_B, Apr 2026
I went with my 16 year old son, very fun session, with interesting information about history and culture.
Would def recommend.
Good level of hands on experience in getting into traditional outfit, and wielding a sword.
Olga_A, Apr 2026
An exceptional samurai class experience in Kyoto! The session was engaging, well-structured, and deeply rooted in history and tradition. This experience was both educational and fun. A unique cultural highlight that I highly recommend—truly a 5-star experience!
Joe_B, Apr 2026
Yoshino sensei and Jordan provided an incredible experience for our group from start to finish. It was informative, educational and enjoyable. Arigato!!
Naveed_H, Apr 2026
Authentic DoJo. Real life training on basic samurai skills. Real performance by martial artists towards the end to highlight how the skills translate to actual actions.
Tina_C, Apr 2026
This was a great experience at an actual dojo with a real sensi. The hosts were wonderful and the activity was fun.
carolin_R, Apr 2026
We had an absolutely incredible samurai training experience that felt truly authentic from beginning to end. The training took place in a real dojo, not a staged or touristy setup, which made it feel deeply special and immersive.
The sensei was the real deal — calm, focused, and incredibly skilled — and you could immediately feel the respect and tradition in the room. What made it even more unique was that there were apprentices assisting throughout the session, creating a genuine training atmosphere rather than a performance.
Every movement was taught with intention, and you could sense the discipline and history behind what we were learning. It wasn’t just about technique — it was about mindset, presence, and respect.
This is not a tourist attraction. It’s a rare opportunity to step into a real part of Japanese culture and experience it firsthand. If you’re looking for something meaningful, authentic, and unforgettable, this is it.
Carol_R, Mar 2026
This was a wonderful experience, living out a chance to take some first steps in learning this ancient martial art. The sensei and his assistants are true masters, and took us along their road, step by step, with clear instruction and wonderful encouragement. Not bad for an old lady about to become a great-grandma!
Robert_B, Mar 2026
Very practical activity. On arrival given samurai clothing to wear and your own katana to practice with. Satisfying learning the kata moves during the session. Great demonstrations by the team and good photo opportunities.
Richard_R, Mar 2026
Genuine, authentic Samurai experience with Sensei Yoshino at his dojo near Nishiki Market and major shopping district along with his able instructors Jordan and Kem. Dressed in traditional training outfit, we received technical instruction and background historical information to practice basic katana sword techniques. We were guided by instructors and Sensei in drills to ensure safe and correct methods. Instructor and Sensei demonstrated kata drills and then used actual katana sword to slice tatami omote pole. Very informative, fun and entertaining. Highly recommend if you want real samurai experience not a clown show.
kj8fvxkpsx, Mar 2026
This isn't some cheesy 'tourist trap', it is a genuine dojo with a profound atmosphere.
The entire experience was incredible from start to finish. The staff is absolutely top-notch; a huge thank you to Haruka, who was so helpful and welcoming throughout our visit.
The Sensei is a true, modern-day samurai. His knowledge and presence are commanding yet inspiring. We had an amazing lesson on how to properly handle and use a katana, which was both challenging and rewarding. To top it all off, we witnessed a breathtaking demonstration by the Master himself, his precision and skill are simply on another level. Don’t miss!
Burdette_H, Mar 2026
Super fun and unique experience! Our whole family enjoyed it. Definitely would recommend it for families visiting Kyoto.
Richard_H, Feb 2026
Very interesting and challenging experience. Learned from a true master. Not a tourist trap. Teaches real martial arts in a dojo. Teaches both Japanese locals and tourists. Also provides amazing photo opportunities.
Lauren_s, Feb 2026
Absolutely a great experience training in a real dojo! It was so much fun learning different ways to handle a sword.
Francine_S, Jan 2026
Very welcoming, fun, and interactive! The instructors were warm, knowledgable, and skilled. They went out of their way to make it a special experience.
Diana_A, Jan 2026
I have learned the safety of how to handle the Samurai Sword, the history of it and what it was used for and who was able to use the Samurai swords. The training was very informative and fun. Our senses was very friendly and informative and very knowledgeable. A lot of important information on Samurai swords and training. I loved it!!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you very much for joining our Samurai Training! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed learning about the safe handling of the samurai sword, its history, and its role in samurai culture. It’s wonderful to know that the training felt both informative and fun, and that Sensei’s friendliness and knowledge stood out to you. We truly appreciate your enthusiasm and are very happy you loved the experience. Thank you for training with us, and we hope to welcome you again!
Abra_V, Jan 2026
Five stars! Amazing instruction and attention to detail. Unique experience with real swords! Kind, fun instruction! My kids had a blast!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you very much for the five-star review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your children had such a fun and memorable experience. Our training uses iaito, which allow for safe yet authentic practice, and we’re glad you enjoyed the instruction and attention to detail. It was a pleasure to train with your family, and we hope to welcome you again in the future!
Elisa_I, Jan 2026
Absolute must do! This was expertly crafted and such a wonderful and authentic experience for our family.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re truly happy to hear that your family had such a wonderful and authentic experience with us. It was a pleasure to train with you, and we hope to welcome you again someday!
lorihowardski, Jan 2026
Absolutely a top highlight of our trip! Jordan and Sensei Yushen were friendly, fun and provided a safe, great samurai experience in an actual dojo! They spoke English and Japanese. A must do if you visit Kyoto!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you very much for joining our samurai training! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the experience. We always strive to provide an authentic iaido experience while ensuring everyone’s safety. We hope you have a wonderful rest of your trip in Kyoto!
Jennifer_R, Dec 2025
loved the history and attention to tradition … nice routine and caring teachers… also liked the traditional dress and katana
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for joining our samurai training! We aim to offer an authentic introduction to the art of iaido, its historical background, and its use by samurai in the past. We are pleased to hear that you enjoyed the experience and hope to welcome you again!
Grace_S, Dec 2025
This was the genuine experience at an actual dojo we were looking for. Yushin sensei and Jordan were both very personable and professional; they created an environment where we could enjoy ourselves and engage seriously. Class was taught with patience, precision and humour. Learning about the history, basic kata and etiquette of Iaido left us with a deeper appreciation of samurai legacy. We also got to witness breathtaking live demos. Easily one of the most memorable experiences we had in Japan. Thank you to Yushin sensei and Jordan, your dedication to the art and desire to share it really came through.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. It truly means a lot to us that you felt the dojo was a genuine place to learn and experience iaido. We were very happy to share the art, history, and etiquette with you, and your appreciation of the practice, demonstrations, and atmosphere is deeply appreciated. Knowing that this became one of your most memorable experiences in Japan is a great honor for us. Thank you again for training with us, and we hope to welcome you back someday!
Erekle_c, Nov 2025
If you want authentic, fun, and informative experience go for it.
Real dojo, real techincs to learn. Best time.
Luke_J, Nov 2025
An excellent experience. I was hoping for a real glimpse into kenjutsu and that's exactly what we got. Yushin-sensei and Jordan taught us a lot of information in a short period of time, but it never felt rushed. They took the time to correct our forms and answer any questions we had. Highly recommend.
ninapuddefoot, Nov 2025
Hubby and I have been involved in MAA and Karate for 20 years. We booked up for this experience with little expectation, for a bit of fun, but to our delight, it turned out to be as close to the real deal that we could have hoped for. We loved it and training with an experienced Japanese Semsai (Master), of many years. Great experience.
W_M, Oct 2025
Our whole family loved this - teenagers and parents. Excellent hands on instruction and information/demonstration on the art of samurai and katanas.
Habib_B, Oct 2025
V Nice and memorable to anyone who h s children interested on learning basics about handling a katana.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
This is John from Yushinkan International, Kyoto.
Thank you very much for coming to train with us and of course for leaving a wonderful review!!!
All the best
From $129.40
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Compare Similar Experiences
Current
Samurai Training with Modern day Musashi in Kyoto
292
1 hour 45 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$129.40
Customers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Attractions in Kyoto, Japan
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Tours & Tickets
- Mt. Kurama Tours & Tickets
- Nishiki Market Tours & Tickets
- Kodai-ji Temple Tours & Tickets
- Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion) Tours & Tickets
- Kyoto Station Tours & Tickets
- Pontocho Alley Tours & Tickets
- Shimogamo-jinja Shrine Tours & Tickets
- Tenryu-ji Temple Tours & Tickets
- Gion Corner Tours & Tickets
- Sanjusangen-do Temple Tours & Tickets
- Chion-in Tours & Tickets
- Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple Tours & Tickets
- Kamigamo Shrine Tours & Tickets
- Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha) Tours & Tickets
- Himeji Castle (Himeji-Jo) Tours & Tickets
- Nijo-jo Castle Tours & Tickets
- Ninna-ji Temple Tours & Tickets
- Sagano Tours & Tickets