Samurai Sword Training in Tokyo (PRIVATE EXPERIENCE)

What is the Iaido technique?

Iaido is a martial art that focuses on perfecting the movements of drawing, wielding, and sheathing the katana. This technique focuses more on drawing techniques that will have you move with a smooth and efficient motion, typically direct into a cutting technique.

Iaido training does not focus on sword fighting, since there is not much use of that in today’s society. The techniques for this lesson are treated more like a dance rather than a combat stance. Most movements will be taught with a slow movement and in repetition to build up your strength until you can move normally in the graceful sword dance.

The Samurai Experience

The samurais may have disappeared or integrated into the modern age of Japan, but their legacy lives on. Explore their legendary tales through guided tours led by our knowledgeable staff at the museum. Gain insight into the life of one of the most prestigious ruling classes of old Japan. Embrace the honor of the samurai as you learn the art of holding and sheathing a katana, akin to the samurais and their two swords—one for the adversary and one for their honorable retribution.

You will be trying out a lightweight replica armor! Designed to be easily worn by kids and every member of the family, these armors are adjustable and cater to multiple sizes. Additionally, you’ll be adorning a metal samurai helmet and wielding a model katana sword as part of the immersive experience.

This experience is the perfect opportunity to take pictures to take home as a souvenir from your trip.

Ensure you don’t miss the incredible performance by a swordmaster with lineage from a samurai clan! Immerse yourself in the graceful and lethal dance executed by the samurai during battles and practices. Additionally, witness a recreational performance portraying a fight scene involving both samurais and ninjas.

The Ninja Experience

Step into the exhilarating world of the enigmatic covert agents of medieval Japan! Ninjas, renowned for their intimidating and formidable presence from the Sengoku Period, also known as the Warring States Period, to the Edo Period, is brought to life. While the traditions and practices of the ninjas may no longer thrive in their glory days, the  TOKYO SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM ensures that the history is preserved and celebrated.

Just like in the movies, our ninja experience allows you to try your hand at the renowned ninja stars, also known as shuriken. These small hand blades are designed for throwing, and rest assured, our ninja stars are perfectly safe.

The next segment of your experience involves using the ninja blowgun, also known as the fukiya, or commonly referred to as blow darts! Engage in a friendly competition within your group during a target practice game as well.

About the Samurai & Ninja tour

Explore our collection of ancient artifacts and historical samurai swords and ninja weapons from feudal Japan. Get up close to examine the intricate details of uncanny replicas inspired by the Sengoku Period up to the Tokugawa Shogunate.

The  TOKYO SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM stands as Japan’s largest experimental museum, providing distinctive encounters that allow you to navigate through medieval exhibits adorned in a kimono, yukata, or samurai armor—a fitting ensemble for the historical era you’ll be exploring. Beyond this, the museum offers authentic Japanese tea ceremonies and Zen meditation workshops tailored for individuals and groups. The  TOKYO SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM tour is available throughout the year in both English and Japanese.
The actual ninjas of old Japan may have disappeared in today’s society but the stories and legends of their deeds live on. Immerse yourself in the experience of what it was like for these covert agents through tours guided by our knowledgeable staff at the  TOKYO SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM!

Every room and exhibit at the TOKYO SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM is crafted in the style of the Sengoku Period, also recognized as the Warring States Period in Japan. This historical era marked a time when the samurai wielded significant influence over the country’s politics, eventually leading to the reunification of Japan. Embarking on an adventure with us will metamorphose you, your friends, and your family into modern interpretations of the legendary warriors of ancient times.

The Samurai & Ninja Tokyo also organizes activities beyond 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.

A Brief History of the Samurai

The samurai, renowned as the premier warriors of their time, continue to be celebrated in stories that circulate to this day, remaining one of the most enduring and popular aspects of Japanese history and culture. Renowned for their courage, military tactical expertise, and adherence to the “Bushido” or code of honor, these warriors left an indelible mark on Japan’s rich historical tapestry.

The samurai class rose to power around the 11th century, leading to the feudal age of Japan. They held control over the country and the Imperial court as one of the most powerful and intimidating classes until the abolishment of the feudal system in 1868. Since then, the samurai culture has greatly influenced modern Japanese society, with ideals of honor, respect, and loyalty deeply ingrained into ordinary everyday lives.

The samurai were recognized for their mastery of a range of weapons, from bows and arrows to swords. Among their arsenal, the katana stands out as one of the most iconic. Renowned for its unparalleled quality, the katana was considered the deadliest and most efficient weapon in battle. Despite the evolution of weapons over time, the samurai maintained a close connection with the katana, believing it held the soul of its wielder. Additionally, they carried a short sword or knife known as a tachi. Wearing a combination of a katana and a tachi was termed daisho, becoming a hallmark of the samurai. The two swords symbolized the samurai’s path: the katana represented the pursuit of a righteous battle, while the tachi served as a reminder of personal honor.

As the samurai class dissolved into modern society, their legacy persisted through generations, contributing to the creation of some of the most successful Japanese companies and industries. . Tactical skills were applied to managerial positions, and practical skills directly influenced the high-quality manufactured goods in the country. One of the most notable products is the unrivaled Japanese knife, which applied the same techniques and methods as when the katanas were made.