Honor - Experience Budo & Culture once practiced by the samurai
Recommended by 100% of travelers
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Osaka, Japan
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
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.
- Wear a well-made replica of samurai armor
- Unlike other photoshoots, you’ll get to walk around Osaka Castle in armor
- Learn about Iaido, a Japanese martial art, in a lesson from an Iaido master
- Professional photo prints and files are included, video upgrade is available
Sample Menu
Starter
Waso➤Japanese clothes
Men will wear hakama and women will change into kimono as wives of samurai. (Children's version is also available for children over 6 years old)
Starter
Practice calligraphy
Activities,1 ➤ Learn how to prepare yourself for calligraphy, and practice how to hold a brush and use tools. （Time Required‐20 min）
Dessert
Seppuku✕Harakiri
Option - Activities,6 ➤A samurai must be prepared to die for his lord. This is because the most important virtue for a samurai is righteousness,
Main
Zen
Both calligraphy and tea ceremony are closely related to Zen.
Main
Bushido
Bushido is an awareness of the mindset (swordsmanship) and way of life (fighting in armor) of the samurai in a samurai society.
What's Included
- Samurai outfit (Armor and Hakama)
- Default language English/Please inquire for other-Italian, Spanish, French, Chinese, Thai, Indonesia
- Photography - Data sent to designated email address
- GratuitiesTaxes・Tips
- SnacksTraditional Japanese Matcha (Green Tea) and Wagashi（Japanese Sweets）
- Public transportationTraditional Japanese Matcha (Green Tea) and Japanese Sweets
- Private transportationParking fee
- Other Personal Expenses/For example Movie Shooting* (Paid Option)
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Japan, 536-0014 Osaka, Joto Ward, Shiginonishi, 2-chōme3１９ エクセレンス高山
1， 1 minute walk from Exit 1 of Osaka Business Park Station on the Osaka metro Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line. 2， 2 minutes walk from Osakajokoen station on the JR Osaka Loop Line. 3， 10 minutes walk from the west exit of Kyobashi station on the JR Osaka Loop Line or Tozai Line.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
1
Osaka Castle Park
2
Osaka Castle
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- 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
- The default language is English. Due to limited staff availability for languages other than the default, we may be unable to accommodate your request.
- Infants must not sit on laps
- Infant seats unavailable
- Not recommended for people with back problems
- Not recommended for people with heart conditions
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not suitable for pets
- Not stroller accessible
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Please understand and cooperate with these precautions. We require you to sign a liability waiver before the experience.
- An instructor with 10 years of swordsmanship experience will handle the Japanese sword and provide instruction before the experience.
- Please note that if you are more than 30 minutes late for your reservation, regardless of whether you contact us, we may refuse entry.
- Please use the restroom before dressing.
- Armor Sizes and Types/Depending on your height, weight, etc., you may not be able to wear your preferred armor. Please consult at the front desk on the day and select authentic armor. *Armor sizes are generally suitable for heights up to 185cm and weights up to 100kg.
- As you will sweat easily while wearing hakama or armor and practicing swordsmanship, please arrive dressed as follows:
- Assistants will help you put on hakama and armor. You cannot put them on yourself.
- Smartphone Photography/Personal photography with smartphones is permitted, provided you do not take selfies or photograph other guests.
- Please refrain from using fixed tripods or recording videos, as these may disturb other guests.
- Drawing swords is dangerous. Do not do so without permission
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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 33 reviews
Abby_G, Jan 2026
This was a one of a kind experience. It was the most expensive thing I booked on our trip and we were not disappointed! We loved the staff and all the time they took with us. My favorite part was the was the calligraphy!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
My friend, that you found it a truly unique experience and were not disappointed is most delightful news indeed. To hear that even at such a high price, you felt it was well worth every penny, I am truly honored. That you particularly enjoyed the calligraphy, I am also delighted to hear.
Incidentally, at SamuraiHonor, our staff are fluent in English and take ample time to guide and explain things to foreign guests. It seems they have a style of adding the samurai-style suffix "gozaru" to their speech. I imagine that hospitality also left a deep impression on you. I pray that your travels, always seeking such sincere and heartfelt experiences, will become ever more fulfilling.
Brandon_B, Dec 2025
I had an amazing time, everyone was nice, very informative and guided me through the process with great patience.
I did the colligraphy, the tea ceremony, cutting the bamboo and made the trip to Osaka castle in samurai armour and i enjoyed every single one!!!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Oh, what a truly delightful experience that was. Practicing calligraphy and tea ceremony, cutting bamboo, and even donning samurai armor to visit Osaka Castle—you truly spent time deeply savoring the honor of being a warrior. That the kindness, knowledge, and patient guidance of everyone left an impression on your heart is a joy to me as well. Let us continue to proudly pass on that spirit of bushido.
Nickbuj, Oct 2025
The Samurai experience (tea ceremony, calligraphy, sword use and samurai armour) were all excellent. A relaxed tea ceremomy, finding out information as you go; a calligraphy lesson with a large piece to take home; cutting with a real sword and load of pictures taken throughout. Well worth it!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Dear Nick,
Thank you very much for your compliments. Since your day was so busy, we regret for you, you waited a little. But, if you enjoyed our experience with your nice father, we’re happy.
I really feel happy you could relax for tea ceremony and big performance calligraphy.
Both of you were great. I felt also so happy to spend the time with you.
Thanks a lot. Much happiness in your future. Regards to your father, too. Kaori
Zheng_g, Aug 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Incredible Experience – A Must-Do for Anyone Interested in Japanese Culture!
We had an amazing time with Samurai Honor learning about Japanese culture in a fun, hands-on, and memorable way. From the moment we arrived, the hospitality and kindness were outstanding. The hosts made us feel completely welcome and created a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
The samurai sword training was a true highlight — exciting, engaging, and authentic. The guidance was clear and easy to follow, even for beginners, and the whole experience felt both educational and thrilling. We also got to take excellent photos, which were not only high-quality but also captured the spirit of the session perfectly. Great for memories!
This experience is perfect for anyone who wants a deeper appreciation of Japanese traditions while having fun. Highly recommended — you’ll leave with new skills
Response from Host, Aug 2025
"Arigataki shiawase" ― A traditional expression meaning "extremely fortunate, a rare coincidence.”
. It is samurai language.
ZaMya_T, Aug 2025
My friend and I absolutely loved the Samurai experience! Every part of it was awe-inspiring, deeply cultural, and beautifully immersive. I never hesitate to ask questions, and they went above and beyond to share their knowledge, passion, and traditions in a way that felt truly authentic. It wasn’t just an activity, it was a journey into history and artistry that left us inspired and grateful. If you’re looking for something unforgettable, I highly recommend this experience; you won’t regret it!
Response from Host, Aug 2025
"Arigataki shiawase" ― A traditional expression meaning "extremely fortunate, a rare coincidence.”
. It is samurai language.
Alena_V, May 2025
It was great! I was alone and there were 2 teachers and a lady interpreter, so it ended up as an amazing private class. All three were extremely nice and we had so many laughs together. First, I tried calligraphy, doing it with a massive brush was especially fun. Then, I had a go at making tea. The best part was trying a samurai sword and having a go at cutting some wooden cylinder! At the end, they helped me to put a samurai armour suit on and took a lot of pictures. The pictures were sent to me after, plus I got my huge calligraphy piece, a printed picture, and a little calligraphy piece with my name to take along. It was a lot of fun, I would totally recommend it to everyone 😊
Response from Host, May 2025
Thank you for taking part in this activity and for taking the time to write a great review.
Activity to write a single character on a 150cm x 150cm sheet of paper with an oversized brush
➤This activity is based on an action of a samurai
In the Warring States period, life and death were always at stake. One of the essential practices of the Samurai at the time of their death was to write a phrase of resignation (calligraphy).
Each kanji character has various meanings, so when a samurai foresaw his death, he would look back on his life and write it down in writing as his last words on earth.
Cin_F, May 2025
What a fun and wonderful experience! Japanese calligraphy, tea ceremony, sword training with tamashigiri and time to dress up like a samurai! The Sensei professionals were very kind and I had a fantastic time!
Response from Host, May 2025
Since you were given the opportunity to experience samurai culture and martial arts at the same time, how has your image of the samurai changed compared to before the experience?
In the past, a "respected person" was referred to as a "samurai". Others in general are just samurai. Please continue to train hard to become a Samurai.
Thank you for taking part in our activities and for taking the time to post this wonderful review.
Velda_M, Apr 2025
This was one of the best experiences we had in Japan. My 12 year old grandson thought being able to learn how to use a katana was awesome and enjoyed the calligraphy very much. I thought the tea ceremony was a perfect view into traditional Japanese culture. The hosts were professional and personable and like most Japanese people, very kind. The language barrier was negligible because one of the hosts was fluent in English so able to translate for us.
We would absolutely do this again! Next time I will wear trousers instead of a skirt just to make it quicker to get into the clothing necessary to participate in the activities. I was provided with trousers there but it just took a few extra minutes to get dressed. The hosts were not concerned with the extra minute but my grandson was!
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for this opportunity, along with your grandchildren.
Now that our clients and others know that we want to be recognized first, let's move on to the
We want them to be interested. To do this, we need to offer something more interesting and intriguing, so please leave it to us. We look forward to seeing you again.
Scott_G, Apr 2025
Absolutely amazing experience. Got to dress up as Samurai warriors and take photos by the castle. Then learned how to handle a sword and cut down a target. Learned calligraphy and wrote our kids names and then had a fascinating and detailed tea ceremony. Totally worth it! Don’t miss!
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for this opportunity.
The martial arts, cultural arts, and spiritual disciplines of the Samurai have survived to this day, and from the time we are students we keep the old Japanese traditions alive for future generations.
Calligraphy, tea ceremony, ikebana, incense appreciation, and many other traditional arts are still widely practiced.
Each of these arts offers a deeper insight into the way of the samurai (bushido) and allows us to experience their movements and ways of thinking firsthand better than any history book ever written!
Maki_D, Apr 2025
This experience exceeded our expectations! My husband, daughter and I enjoyed our afternoon of Japanese calligraphy, tea ceremony, and sword lessons in the studio near Osaka castle. The hosts and teachers were very welcoming, encouraging and informative. This is truly a hands-on, memorable experience. We left feeling very happy and more knowledgeable about Japanese culture.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for this opportunity.
We believe that if you are traveling with your family, you will be pleased with the plan that includes activities for all.
Bushido is a road without end. We are thrilled that you have taken this opportunity to become interested in it and that you have come to love it.
Annette_L, Dec 2024
Exciting, AMAZING adventure.150 mins Deep Samurai Experience near Osaka Castle.
Do not miss out.
From the Tea ceremony to Calligraphy writing, then learning about using the swords and lastly the dress up in authentic Samari outfits.
The 3 people who guided and assisted were Beautiful helpful and informative with some humour a long the way.
Also got photos to capture the experience.
Loved it.
After went to Osaka Castle not too fate of a walk.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
We are most encouraged when our guests are pleased with their experience of Japanese culture. We are also very satisfied with the experience
Antona_W, Oct 2024
My experience participating in the Japanese Samurai experience in Osaka, Japan in October was truly unforgettable. The evening began with a captivating calligraphy lesson led by the talented Sakuma San. Under her guidance, I learned the intricate art of Japanese calligraphy, creating beautiful characters on traditional paper. Sakuma San's expertise and patience made the lesson both educational and enjoyable.
Following the calligraphy lesson, I was immersed in a traditional tea ceremony, where I witnessed the grace and precision of the tea master. The serene atmosphere and attention to detail during the ceremony were mesmerizing, allowing me to appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture and traditions.
The highlight of the experience was the short lesson on wearing the Samurai armor, guided by the knowledgeable Taguchi San, a sword expert. Donning the armor and learning about the history and significance of each piece was a truly immersive and enlightening experience.
Throughout the evening, Camila San, our translation guide, was instrumental in ensuring clear communication and facilitating a seamless experience. Her warmth, knowledge, and dedication to making sure I understood and appreciated each aspect of the Samurai experience were truly commendable.
I am grateful to Taguchi San, Sakuma San, Camila San, and all the staff involved for their welcoming hospitality, wealth of knowledge, and engaging personalities that made this experience truly exceptional. Thank you for your patience and time in sharing the rich traditions of the Samurai with me.
Response from Host, Nov 2024
We are most encouraged when our guests are pleased with their experience of Japanese culture. We are also very satisfied with the experience
Gerard_F, Sep 2024
Amazing time at Samurai Honor, the senseis and photographer/translator really helped us enjoy this experience. My girlfriend and I had so much fun, we learned a lot, and we got great photos/videos that are genuine professional quality.
For many, this would be a once in a lifetime experience that I would highly recommend.
Although for me, I enjoyed so much that I have to go back again in the future!
Response from Host, Sep 2024
We are most encouraged when our guests are pleased with their experience of Japanese culture. We are also very satisfied with the experience.
Paul_M, Aug 2024
We enjoyed a fabulous Samurai experience where we learnt some of the history of the Samurai from painting the letterings, to some of the rituals. The highlights of the day were using the Samurai swords and dressing up in the armour. A brilliant and memorable experience with some great photos.
Julie_S, May 2024
I very highly recommend this tour to everyone who travels to Osaka or Kyoto! It is worth every penny. You will learn a kanji of your choice, getting lots of practice then making a large poster of it. You will learn and practice some movements with an iado sword. Then you’ll do a tea ceremony. The highlight was wearing samurai armor and walking all around Osaka castle getting professional pictures taken by the provided photographer (and our photos were taken by LoTs of tourists!). So, you also get a tour of the outside of Osaka castle and its grounds. The professional photographer did a fanatic job taking pictures of all the experiences on this tour. Definitely a highlight of our vacation in Japan!!
Response from Host, Jun 2024
We have read the reviews that our customers have submitted.
Thank you for your satisfaction and compliments.
Taryn_H, Mar 2024
A personal and authentic experience with lovely people and an amazing background of the Osaka Castle
Response from Host, Apr 2024
nk you for taking advantage of the SAMURAI HONOR experience.
Although it was only for a short time, all of us at SAMURAI HONOR are thrilled that you were able to experience and enjoy the splendor of traditional Japanese culture and martial arts, even if only for a short time. Thank you very much.
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From $176.66
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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