Samurai Training Experience KENDO in Osaka
Recommended by 100% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Osaka, Japan
- 2 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
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.
- Learn the basics in a single lesson while practicing in traditional armor
- Small class size ensures you’ll get attentive instruction and feedback
- Receive digital photos and videos of the experience as a souvenir
- Comfortable facilities include showers, changing rooms and air conditioning
What's Included
- Kendo protective armours
- All Fees and Taxes
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 1-chōme-18-2 Honjōhigashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-0074, Japan
Exit 11 of Tenjimbashisuji 6-chome Station. You will see a Family Mart on your left side. Turn left at the next intersection (Tenjimbashi 7). Turn left into the first narrow alleyway past the third Family Mart. Turn right at the first corner and you will see the building on your right.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 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 555 reviews
Christine_W, Apr 2026
So fun! Great experience! The staff was very friendly and helpful. I learned a lot about how the samurai compete!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly delighted to hear that you found it to be such a great experience.
If you have the chance to visit Japan again, we would love to practice Kendo together once more. We are very much looking forward to seeing you again!
Joseph_S, Apr 2026
Very professional and friendly husband and wife duo. The classroom and gear were extremely clean. Exceeded my expectations. Would definitely recommend 👌
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly honored to hear that we were able to provide an experience that exceeded your expectations.
If you have the chance to visit Japan again, we would love to practice Kendo together once more. We are very much looking forward to seeing you again!
Briana_G, Apr 2026
Kumiko and Toshi were absolutely amazing. Toshi is a master of his craft. Truly left today with an honorable respect for Kendo and all that they do. Thank you all!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! It’s a great honor for us to hear that you enjoyed the experience, and we’re so happy we could share such a special time with you as well.
If you visit Japan again, we would love to practice Kendo together with you!
We’re looking forward to seeing you again in the future.
Brandon_M, Apr 2026
The Kendo training experience was a lot of fun. Toshi was a great instructor. You get to the learn a brief history of Kendo, some practices they traditionally do and then do some matches.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly honored to hear that you enjoyed the experience. It means a lot to us.
If you visit Japan again, we would love to practice Kendo together with you. We look forward to seeing you again!
Gaby_T, Apr 2026
What a cool experience! Everything was straight forward, fun and safety was a priority (while still having fun). Definitely one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever done. If I return to visit Japan again I would do this again! If you’re thinking about doing a kendo experience, I’d highly recommend booking this one.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly honored to have been a part of your memorable and enjoyable experience.
We would love to practice Kendo together again when you visit Japan next time!
We sincerely look forward to seeing you again!
Cengiz_S, Apr 2026
This is a really fabulous and cool experience. We’ve been in Japan for over 3 weeks & joined maybe 20 or more Getyourguide or Viator tours and experiences etc but this was, by far, one of the best of them all!
The experience is provided in a very authentic and well presented training space where you are fully dressed in Kendo garments and combat gear (including a breast plate, helmet and gloves) and then instructed by a very friendly husband & wife team who have a professional background in competitive Kendo. You’re then provided with historical context to the martial art, the rules of combat/competition and then taught hands-on combat forms (with a bamboo sword), techniques and competition etiquette. Surprisingly by the time you get to the second hour of the 2 hour experience, you’re encouraged to spa with both the instructor and your fellow class mates - nothing too crazy or serious but still definitely physical enough to provide a heart racing and ‘authentic’ experience of this very elegant and technical Japanese martial art form. During the experience, one of the team constantly take photos and short videos of all the participants, using a good quality professional camera. High resolution media are then forwarded to your email address after the experience is over! This is a really lovely touch as it allows you to focus on the experience properly and takes away the constant distraction of fiddling about with your camera phone trying to capture these very cool moments.
I have to admit that after reading previous reviews, I was REALLY looking forward to this experience but was a little sceptical about how substantial, meaningful and educational it would be as just a two hour experience for someone with no previous experience in Kendo…
Well, I was certainly not disappointed. It ticked all the right boxes and delivered a very fun, energetic, novel, cultural and educational experience. It was genuinely a wonderful and culturally cool way to spend 2 hours during our trip to Osaka or Japan generally! I would definitely recommend it without any hesitation!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review with a lot of photos!
Your review is so detailed, and we are sure it will be very helpful for future guests who are interested in trying Kendo.
We are truly honored to have been a highlight of your trip! We are also very happy to hear that you liked the photos and videos.
Once again, thank you sincerely for your thoughtful and kind review.
We would love to practice Kendo together again when you visit Japan in the future!
We look forward to seeing you again!
Noah_Y, Apr 2026
What an incredible experience with Toshi and his family. The entire time was fun, interesting and felt truly immersive. They were very easy to engage and interact with, not to mention knowledgeable, informative, and very entertaining. My family (wife, kids 5+7) had an amazing time. They were extremely accommodating to our entire family, and the kids asked to go back the next day. In our entire 12-day trip in Japan, this was a standout experience. Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! Hearing that your children would like to come again and that this experience became a highlight of your 12-day trip is truly the greatest compliment for us. We sincerely appreciate it.
We would love to practice Kendo together again when you visit Japan in the future!
We look forward to seeing you again!
Alayne_M, Apr 2026
Intense experience. Privileged to be instructed with a kendo champion who has 20years experience. Very physical, but absolutely worth it! Highly recommended you give this a go! Felt safe and comfortable
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly honored that you found it to be a intense experience.
We would love to practice Kendo together again when you visit Japan in the future!
We look forward to seeing you again!
Melissa_G, Mar 2026
What a fun and educational experience, learning the art of Kendo. This is a wonderful introduction and so much fun.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We truly appreciate how sincerely you engaged in the session. It allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience together, and we had an absolutely fantastic time with you.
We would be delighted to train with you again when you visit Japan in the future. We are very much looking forward to seeing you again!
Ryan_R, Mar 2026
Amazing experience! Toshi and his wife were gracious hosts. After learning about the history of kendo, we practiced how to meditate and use proper form. We then put on gear for more practice and sparring. This even included a few rounds with the instructor!
Toshi was very encouraging and a true master of his craft. And the photos were fantastic. The highlight of our trip to Osaka!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly honoured to hear that our experience was a highlight of your trip to Osaka. It means a great deal to us that you took the time to describe your experience in such detail—your review will certainly be very helpful for other guests as well.
We sincerely appreciate your kind words and support. Should you visit Osaka again, we would be delighted to practise Kendo together once more.
We very much look forward to welcoming you again in the future!
Karen_S, Dec 2025
This is an amazing experience - highly recommend to families - they are very encouraging even when you feel like you have two left feet
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are happy to hear that you recommended our experience to others. Your kind words encourage us greatly, and we will continue to do our very best every day so that all of our guests can enjoy their time with us. When you visit Osaka again, we would love to practice Kendo together once more.We are very much looking forward to seeing you again in the future!
janaina_v, Dec 2025
Amazing! You will have the best time, will learn and have fun!! Unforgettable experience. A must do in Osaka. Toshi and his wife are just amazing and friendly people! I’m very grateful for this experience!!Loved it
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly honored to know that it became an unforgettable me emory during your trip to Japan, and we are very happy that you enjoyed it so much.
If you visit Osaka again in the future, we would be delighted to practice Kendo together once more. We sincerely look forward to meeting you again!
ganeshanayagam_s, Dec 2025
Great experience in Kendo. Toshi and
Nao were wonderful. 2 hours of great fun. Highly recommend to anyone
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are honored to hear that you have enjoyed the experience with us. Please come and do Kendo again next time you visit Osaka! We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Carla_K, Nov 2025
Absolutely fabulous! We wanted a hands on experience and this was most definitely that. A brief history of the Samurai followed by learning basic techniques from a Kendo master. After practice we dressed out and sparred each other with each match determined by points made. This would make a do-not-miss list for us- one of the best experiences we have had in our two weeks in Japan.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are truly honored to have been included in your list of recommended activities in Japan, and even more delighted to hear that our experience became one of the highlights of your unforgettable trip.
If you come back to Osaka, we would be very happy to practice Kendo with you again. We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Ben_C, Nov 2025
This kendo experience was amazing. The instructor gave us lots of information about kendo and samurai. I recommend it to anyone with an interest in martial arts or Japanese culture.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We were absolutely delighted to hear that your whole family enjoyed the time with us! Please, the next time you visit Osaka, we would love to practice Kendo with you all again!
We look forward to seeing you and your family again soon!
Amir_K, Nov 2025
Unbelievably good experience!
From the learning about history, the dojo itself to the lesson everything was perfect!
It can be physical and it can be relaxed, your choice and the instructor will make the adjustment according to your preference.
Toshi and Kumi were so kind and knowledgable, and their english is very good so no problem communicating!
Please be respectful and kind to them back.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! Your compliment that "everything was perfect" is the highest praise we could receive, and it truly made our day! The sparring session was indeed very exciting and intense. If you ever find yourself in Osaka again, we would love to practice Kendo with you! We sincerely look forward to seeing you again soon!
Catherine_M, Sep 2025
Toshi and Kumiko were very patient and friendly and explained the history and practices of samurai during the experience which was very interesting.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are honored to hear that you have enjoyed our session. We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Matthew_S, Sep 2025
My wife and I had a wonderful time learning Kendo in Osaka. The instructor was very friendly, helpful, and encouraging. His assistant / translator was very kind as well, and gave us a brief history of the Samurai, who are the spiritual predecessors of Kendo. We learned the basic moves and etiquette of Kendo and even got to spar with each other and the instructor! Throughout, we were encouraged to ask questions and practice, and we left with more knowledge, skills, and a great workout. We would highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants a bit of a physical challenge in a relaxed and fun environment. Thank you to our instructors!
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We truly enjoyed having you. The way you both dedicated yourselves to learning Kendo made it a fantastic session for us. The match between the two of you was so exciting!
It was a great time, and we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. If you're ever in Osaka again, let's practice Kendo together!
We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Jordan_H, Aug 2025
Excellent experience learning everything with our trainer! Me and my friend got to fight each other and they recorded it, and then finally tested our skills against our trainer haha!
Loved all of it, it was super professional, so much fun to learn and safe. Recommend it to everyone to do when in Osaka. It’s the best thing we’ve done on our trip so far! Thank you.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! It is our greatest honor to know that our experience was a highlight of your trip to Japan. I truly enjoyed the exciting sparring and matches with you! We would be delighted to have you join us for kendo again when you are back in Osaka. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Sarah_W, Aug 2025
Just insane…. What an experience from the beginning, starting with the history to the end with sparring. I’ve spent a month in Japan and can by far say this was my favorite experience. Handled with professionalism respect and kindness. Thank you to both teachers for really taking the time and not holding back. Big thanks from Sarah!! 🇨🇦
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! It is a great honor for us to know that our experience became one of the best memories of your long trip to Japan. We also had a very enjoyable time with you.
We hope you have a wonderful rest of your stay in Osaka. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Brason_E, Aug 2025
I had such a wonderful time at this kendo experience! As a complete beginner, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the teachers were so patient, encouraging, and kind. They not only guided me through the movements and basics of kendo, but also took the time to explain the history, culture, and meaning behind the art.
What stood out the most was how welcoming and fun the teachers were — they created an environment where I could both learn seriously and enjoy myself at the same time. Their passion for kendo and their desire to share it with others really came through.
This was truly one of the best cultural experiences I’ve had in Japan. I left not only with new skills but also with a deeper appreciation for the tradition and spirit of kendo. I would recommend this to anyone — whether you are interested in martial arts, Japanese culture, or simply want to try something unique and memorable.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! It was a pleasure to have you.
Your curiosity and dedication to learning Kendo made our experience truly special. We had such a great time with you!
If any of your friends or acquaintances are planning to visit, please let us know. We would be thrilled to meet them as well.
We look forward to seeing you again soon, and we hope to have the opportunity to welcome your friends in the future!
Tal_Z, Aug 2025
Woww.... what a great experience.
If there wher 10 stars I would give it.
I came with my daughter 12y.
We arrived to a cool authentic dojo. Everything was shiny clean.
We learned a little about KenDo history and then move to practice.
Every thing was adapted to the level with a friendly but very professional attitude.
We started slowly and then moved to dry practice and with full body armor.
We learned technics and try actual sparing.
Toshi san and Kumiko were great and professional.
We enjoyed so much.
Thanks for a life experience.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this great review! We were so happy to receive your wonderful review. It was a true pleasure to meet you and your daughter.
The opportunity to interact with a different martial art was a truly stimulating experience for me, and I'm very grateful for the exchange.
Please don't hesitate to contact me if there is anything I can do to help you in the future. I look forward to seeing you again soon!
Aaron_H, Jul 2025
Toshi and Kumiko were amazing Kendo instructors. They were warm, friendly, and knowledgeable. We were able to ask questions and really learn about the history of both Samurai and Kendo in a relaxed environment. Our family enjoyed every minute of this wonderful experience. Our kids voted it the best experience of our 10 day Japan trip! They especially loved getting to battle each other at the end once we learned all the property techniques and manners associated with Kendo. The Japanese snacks at the end were a big hit as well! If you want a unique experience where you are learning about the culture while experiencing it, this adventure is for you. You will enjoy every minute!
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this great review! We are truly honored that our session could be a highlight of your trip.
Your family's curiosity and sincere approach to the Kendo training were truly impressive. Your children's final match was incredibly exciting to watch!
We would be delighted to practice Kendo with you again if you ever come to Osaka!
Christen_G, Jul 2025
Got to learn Kendo from a professional. Nice studio. Easy to find. Allowed us to change into uniforms and gear in a changing room. They took nice pictures of us. Learned a lot. Highly recommend
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! You approached the Kendo experience with such sincere curiosity and dedication, and it was truly a joy to witness. I had an absolutely fantastic time with you all! I'm really looking forward to seeing you again!
Jon_L, May 2025
Amazing experience with a great husband and wife team. You get a quick run-through of samurai history and then you’ll get fully suited up for a hands on lesson. It’s a good workout as you progress through strikes, combinations, and counters with the footwork to match. After the lesson you’re welcomed to challenge the sensei, I highly recommend asking for a full speed match to appreciate his skill. Afterwards the hosts were kind enough to share some snacks and recommendations for our remaining time in Japan.
Response from Host, May 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We're truly delighted to hear you had such a great time. We hope you also enjoy the snay and places we recommended! If you ever come back to Osaka, let's practice Kendo together again! We look forward to seeing you then!
Jeffrey_H, May 2025
As a solo traveler, I was a little nervous heading into the day, and when I showed up I was the only person for the experience for the day-and I had a wonderful time with one-on-one instruction. They presented the historical context and stories which led to this before instructing me the Kendo moves. After dressing me in proper Kendo attire, we had an amazing photoshoot and then they taught me step by step moves before finally having us go head to head in a battle. The instructors were amazing, helpful, kind, and friendly and they recorded most of the session and sent the videos and photos to me for free afterwards. I had an anazing time and highly recommend this to anyone wishing to have a genuine cultural experience to immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese exchange.
Response from Host, May 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this great review! We're so honored that you enjoyed it and we really appreciate your wonderful review! We're also thrilled that you liked the photos and videos. If you ever come to Osaka again, let's practice kendo together! We're looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Gary_R, Apr 2025
Personal Kendo Experience that was enjoyed by all the family. A great husband and wife combination. Not only did we enjoy the experience but it was all captured by photo and video that were sent within 24 hours after.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are honored to hear that you have enjoyed the photos and videos as well. We had a great time with your family too! We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Michael_L, Apr 2025
Knowledgeable and friendly instructors who create a wonderful experience. Honestly, I wish I lived nearby so I could do it again.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that you have enjoyed our session. Let’s do Kendo again! We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
fahadalzahem, Apr 2025
It was a fenomenal experience I had a lot of fun and everyone was really kind helpful and knowledgeable not just of the sport but the history, will definitely come again if I get the chance
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that you have enjoyed our entire Kendo experience! Let’s do Kendo again! We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Ali_F, Mar 2025
Very fun experience, got taught a lot about kendo generally not just the combat aspect, the husband and wife team running this activity are humorous and informative, if you are unsure book immediately it is well worth the money.
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Thank you for choosing our experience and taking the time to write this lovely review! We are honored to hear that you have enjoyed our session. We hope you had a great time in Japan. We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
From $126.57
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Samurai Training Experience KENDO in Osaka
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