Samurai experience: art and soul of the sword

2 Hours Round trip from 3-chōme-5-1 Kuramae Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Experience Iaido, the traditional samurai art of swordsmanship
02 Change into samurai attire and train inside an Iaido dojo
03 Learn directly from a master about bushido and sword practice
04 Try slashing a cardboard target in a safe setting
05 Watch an up-close solo demonstration by the master
06 Receive a certificate of completion at the end
07 Optional real-sword tatami cutting for eligible participants

Step into the world of the samurai and discover Iaido, the traditional Japanese art of swordsmanship. At the dojo, you will change into samurai attire, learn the principles behind this centuries-old practice, and experience the discipline, courtesy, and focus that shaped the way of bushido.

Under the guidance of a master, you will be introduced to the flow of the experience and try sword practice in a safe setting by slashing a cardboard target. You will also watch a solo demonstration up close and receive a certificate of completion at the end.

For eligible participants, there is also an option to enhance the experience by trying rolled tatami mat cutting with a real sword, subject to age requirements, waiver signing, and the master’s instructions.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access No

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Samurai experience: art and soul of the sword

There are many parts of Japanese culture and tradition that cannot be understood through words alone. So is bushido, the way of samurai. You will experience Iaido, a dominant art of swordsmanship practiced by samurai. If you can imagine a samurai swiftly and deftly slicing a roll of straw mat, that is Iaido. Born 6 centuries ago, Iaido is a traditional martial art favored by samurai. After arriving at the Iaido dojo, change into a samurai attire with a sword.
Many tend to assume it would be difficult to slip into the samurai frame of mind especially if you have grown up in a completely different culture. Surprisingly, however, once you are in a samurai attire with a sword and stand in the dojo keeping your back straight, you now understand - the world of bushido is accessible to everyone.
Learn from a master what Iaido is about, flow of experience, and actually slash a cardboard with a sword; not a roll of straw mat for your safety. Now, observe solo demonstration by the master up close to marvel at his skill. You will receive a certificate of completion at the end. Through the entire process, you will sense courtesy and discipline are the values prized by samurai.

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Iaido experience at the main dojo of Hogyokukai

What's Not Included

Hotel pickup and dropoff

Know before you go

INFANTS MUST SIT ON LAPS
Not wheelchair accessible
Not stroller accessible
Not suitable for pets
Infant seats unavailable
Not recommended for people with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for people with heart conditions
As the iaido dojo has the right to adjust their schedule in the last minute based on their urgent priorities, please note that there is the possibility to ask for rescheduling or cancelling the tour. In case of cancellation, we will fully refund your booking shortly.

Logistics