Ever dreamed of wielding a katana and stepping into the shoes of Japan’s most legendary warriors? This 3-hour premium Samurai & Ninja Experience takes you on a journey through time, where you'll train like a true samurai and embrace the stealthy techniques of the ninja. Perfect for anyone seeking a deeper connection to Japanese culture, this immersive activity offers a rare chance to embody the spirit, skills, and traditions of these iconic figures.
The samurai, renowned for their unwavering discipline and honor, were the elite warriors of feudal Japan. Their katana symbolized precision, strength, and a profound commitment to their code, Bushido. Meanwhile, the ninja were masters of stealth and strategy, relying on agility and ingenuity to complete their secretive missions. From throwing stars to blow guns, their tools reflected their resourcefulness and adaptability. This experience is the perfect opportunity to take pictures to take home as a souvenir from your trip.
If you're short on time, consider reserving the shorter version of this activity:
＊For participants with special needs, we kindly ask that you contact us in advance to ensure we can accommodate you.
Important Update:
Due to a recent Japanese swords and firearms law, lending real swords and facilitating activities involving their use, such as tameshigiri (test cutting), are strictly prohibited. For this activity, you will exclusively use high-quality replica swords.
For the Samurai Experience, you will be dressed in the iconic attire of the samurai, immersing yourself in the warrior spirit. You’ll wear the Hakama, the traditional pants worn by samurai, paired with a kimono-style top that perfectly reflects the warrior’s elegance and discipline. The moment you’re dressed in these historic garments, you’ll feel connected to centuries of samurai tradition, ready to begin your swordsmanship lesson.
This is your chance to not only practice the skills of a samurai but to look the part too—so don’t forget to capture the moment! Take pictures to remember the experience and share this unforgettable journey into Japan's rich warrior history.
The Samurai Sword Experience begins with a focus on safety and form. The class starts with a simple grip and posture check to ensure you're comfortable and ready. Once you're set, you'll move on to practicing a series of traditional sword poses and gestures, each essential to mastering different techniques. Some of these movements will be repeated to help build your strength and refine your technique. As you progress, you'll gradually advance to more complex swordwork, gaining confidence and skill with each step.
Under the guidance of a skilled Samurai master, you’ll learn how to properly wear and draw the sword, as well as how to execute a traditional cut. You’ll also be introduced to Kata, a series of coordinated movements performed with the sword in succession, designed to develop discipline, focus, and technique.
Join us for this unforgettable experience, where the rich legacy of the samurai comes to life. Embrace the timeless art of the sword, uncover the secrets of the samurai tradition, and allow the spirit of Bushido to inspire your journey toward mastery.
Experience the full samurai transformation by trying on authentic samurai armor. This unique opportunity allows you to wear a complete set of armor and capture memorable photos as a true warrior. Our armors come in unisex styles and a range of sizes, making it accessible for everyone, including children. You’ll also have the chance to choose from a selection of replica swords to complete your look. Perfect for a memorable photo op, this experience brings you even closer to the legendary samurai way of life.
Step into the shoes of a ninja and learn the art of throwing shuriken, the iconic ninja star. After practicing your aim and technique, it’s time for the fun part—testing your skills in a friendly competition. Challenge your friends or fellow participants to see who can hit the target with the most accuracy. It’s an exciting and interactive way to experience the legendary precision of ninjas while enjoying a bit of friendly rivalry!
Embark on an engaging tour where you'll uncover fascinating trivia and insights into Japan’s rich history and culture. As you explore the samurai and ninja exhibits, our expert guide will share captivating stories behind each display, from the technical details to the historical significance of the items. You'll have the chance to ask any questions you may have, learning about the origins of the samurai and ninja, their evolving roles, and the legendary figures who shaped their stories. The tour is available in English, making it easy for you to connect with Japan’s captivating past.
Limited spots available!
Unlike other offerings, this program combines the best of both worlds: the structured discripline of samurai sword training and the playful thrill of ninja techniques. By booking directly through our site, you'll ensure a seamless experience at the Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo, where expert instructors and authentic settings await you.
The samurai are known as the best warriors in the world in their time, and stories about them still circulate to this day, staying as one of the most popular aspects of Japanese history and culture. These warriors were known for their bravery, military tactical prowess, and the Bushido (code of honor).
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 known to wield a variety of weapons from bows and arrows to swords. One of the most well-known weapons of the samurai is the katana. The katana is an unrivaled quality sword and considered the most deadly and efficient weapon during battle. And although the weapons evolved throughout the time periods, the samurai kept the katana close, believing that it held the soul of the bearer. They also carried a short sword or knife known as a tachi. Wearing a katana and a tachi combination was called daisho, which became the hallmark of the Samurai. The two swords represented the path of the samurai: The katana was the symbol for fighting a righteous battle, and the tachi was a reminder of personal honor.
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Tameshigiri, also known as the Japanese art of test cutting was popularized in the Edo Period and is the ultimate samurai experience! During the Edo period, only the most experienced swordsmen were selected to test swords, so that the swordsman's skill was not in doubt in determining how well the sword cut. The materials used to test swords varied greatly. In modern times, the practice of tameshigiri has focused on testing the ability of the swordsman rather than the cutting ability of the sword. The swords used are generally inexpensive. Practitioners of tameshigiri sometimes use the terms Shito (試刀, sword test) and Shizan (試斬, test cut, an alternative pronunciation of the characters for tameshigiri) to distinguish between the historical practice of sword testing and the modern practice of testing one's cutting ability. Test your skills on tatami cutting mats during your training with a swordmaster.
As the samurai class dissolved into modern society, their previous skills and education were passed through generations. This lead 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.
Simply fill the form at the top of this page to schedule a tour and wait for a confirmation email from us. We hope to see you soon!
Our museum is open with tours available every day from 9 am to 6:30 pm.
All participants in the tameshigiri workshop should be at least 18 years of age.
The tameshigiri workshop uses a real katana while the samurai sword training for adults focuses on a non-contact martial art called "Iaido". It is illegal in Japan to allow first timers to get engaged with the tameshigiri experience.
Yes! Our museum staff is fluent in English, but can also provide assistance in Chinese and Japanese should you prefer.
Yes! We sell authentic samurai swords at our museum. You can talk to us during your visit or contact us online using the emails listed at the end of this page.
For the sword cutting experience we usually do not accept walkins this means you are highly recommend booking in advance before your trip . You also get 10% discount when you book online. Advanced reservations recommended especially during peak seasons to avoid the crowd.
Yes! We offer a variety of souvenirs along with real samurai swords, replicas, and antique samurai armor.
No, you will be using a replica sword. It is illegal to lend others one's own katan for recreational or training purposes.
Yes! If you came from Maikoya in your kimono, you can inform us if you wish to keep wearing it during your time with us.
