Ninja Training in Kyoto: Ninja Experience

In many areas of the world, the word Ninja has come to mean black clothed mysterious beings that can perform superhuman feats. Popular movies and television are largely responsible for the attire, but Ninja legends are a part of history in Japan. Folklore portrays Ninja as possessing supernatural powers that allowed them to fly, become invisible, walk on water, and shape shift. Ninja could accomplish these extraordinary acts because they had mastered control over the elements of nature. Though there are numerous folk tales and stories, it is rare to find historical records. What accounts do exist state Ninja were born into the profession. Secrets and traditions were passed from generation to generation. Starting at an early age children were trained in the ways of the Ninja including martial arts, climbing buildings, avoiding detection, diversions, and how to use a variety of weapons. Misguided efforts to connect Samurai and Ninja likely stem from the fact that both are born into their profession and begin training within the family at an early age. Samurai observed a code of honor and a strict set of rules. Ninja did not have a code and employed disguise and secrecy to carry out their duties. The masters of deception were often mercenaries hired to perform covert acts. Ninja used a wide assortment of skills to carry out their assignments which included infiltrating groups or areas, espionage, guerilla warfare, and assassinations. The primary tool of the Ninja was disguise. Often the Ninja would dress as a peasant farmer or woodcutter. Disguised as a common worker Ninja could slip into almost any town or village.  Ninja were trained to use their skills of stealth instead of engaging in open fighting.

• Ninja manuals focused on avoiding detection and how to escape if captured.
• Blowguns, poison darts, and blinding powder were just a few of the Ninja weapons.
• Ninja ate vegetarian diets to avoid having body odor.

Ninja Experience in Kyoto

Ninja have been the subject of Japanese folklore and popular books and media. Born into the profession Ninja were trained in the ways of deception and manipulation of nature at an early age. Physical training, martial arts and climbing techniques for entering castles were all a part of the education. Some believed Ninja could walk on water, become invisible and even fly. Who would not want to be Ninja? Now you can experience the mysterious world when you visit the Samurai and Ninja Museum in Japan. Residents and visitors alike can delight in the Ninja realm. You will learn about Ninja in Japan’s history and what kind of weapons and tools were used as they carried out covert missions. Your transformation into Ninja begins with the trained staff that will help you to choose and dress in traditional attire for your experience. . With an authentic background for your photos, you will appear to have stepped out of Japanese folklore. Photographs are wonderful souvenirs of your Ninja experience and so much fun to share with family and friends. Your trip to Kyoto will not be complete unless you visit the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum where you will discover the traditions of Japan and enjoy the fresh seasonal delicacies served at the cultural center.

The total length of the ninja lesson is about 30~40 minutes. Then there are other tours and experiences included in your ticket. In total you are likely to spend about 90 minutes in our venue.

About Samurai & Ninja tour

Explore our collection of ancient artifacts and historical samurai swords and ninja weapons from feudal Japan. You will even get up-close looks at the uncanny replicas inspired by the Sengoku Period up to the Tokugawa Shogunate.

The Samurai & Ninja museum is Japan’s largest experimental museum and offers unique experiences where you can tour around the medieval exhibits while wearing a kimono, yukata, or samurai armor – a fitting combination for the time period you’ll be exploring. Aside from this, there are also authentic Japanese tea ceremonies and Zen meditation workshops available for individuals and groups. The Samurai & Ninja Museum tour is available all year-round in English, Chinese, and Japanese.
The true ninjas of old Japan may have disappeared in today’s society but the stories and legends of their deeds live on. Experience what it was like for these covert agents through the tours guided by our knowledgeable staff at the Samurai & Ninja Museum Kyoto!

All of the rooms and exhibits at the Samurai & Ninja Museum are designed in the styles of the Sengoku Period, also known as the Warring States Period in Japan. This era was the time when the samurai held extraordinary power over the politics in the country, enough to eventually trigger the reunification of Japan. Your adventure with us will transform you and your friends and family into a modern rendition of the ancient legendary warriors.

The Samurai & Ninja Kyoto also hosts its activities outside the museum upon request. All you need to do is contact us so we can arrange for our affiliated dojos! Don’t forget to check out the museum gift shop for a souvenir. There are also antique samurai swords and armor for sale if you’re an avid collector, along with ninja tabi-socks.