Tokyo’s rich samurai heritage comes to life in an immersive workshop that takes you deep into the heart of Japan’s warrior culture. Donning traditional attire, you’ll master the art of swordsmanship under the guidance of an expert instructor from a revered samurai lineage. As you engage in the precise movements of Iai and kendo, the weight of the real samurai swords in your hands will transport you back in time. This unforgettable journey offers a rare glimpse into the discipline, honor, and spirit that defined these iconic figures – and leaves you with a handmade certificate to commemorate your experience.
Key Points
- Immersive 2-hour workshop at a traditional Toyama-ryu Bizen-kai dojo, located 10 minutes from JR Machida Station, led by an expert instructor of samurai lineage.
- Comprehensive training in Iai (sword drawing), kendo (sparring), and test cutting with real samurai swords, ensuring hands-on experience with samurai techniques.
- Participants receive a handmade certificate to commemorate their achievement, showcasing their newfound appreciation for samurai culture and artistry.
- Restricted to 5 participants for personalized attention, with safety and integrity of training prioritized by the instructors.
- Opportunity to don authentic samurai attire, such as hakama and keikogi, and gain insights into samurai philosophy, etiquette, and history through the instructor’s personal anecdotes.
Experience Overview
Immersing participants in an authentic samurai experience, this 2-hour workshop at a traditional dojo offers a rare opportunity to learn the age-old arts of sword drawing, sparring, and test cutting.
Limited to just 5 people, the intimate class size ensures personalized attention from the expert instructor, a descendant of samurai lineage.
Throughout the session, you will wield a real samurai sword, mastering proper techniques and sword handling under the instructor’s watchful eye.
Donning traditional training attire, they’ll be fully immersed in the samurai culture, emerging with a handmade certificate to commemorate their journey.
Priced at $173.13 per person, this unforgettable experience can be booked with flexible cancellation policies.
Training Components
During the 2-hour workshop, participants engage in a three-part class covering Iai (sword drawing), kendo (sparring), and test cutting with a real samurai sword.
Under the expert guidance of the instructor, a descendant of samurai lineage, they’ll learn proper techniques and master the art of sword handling.
The class begins with the graceful art of Iai, where students practice drawing and sheathing the sword with precision.
They then move on to the dynamic art of kendo, sparring with wooden swords to develop their reflexes and technique.
The grand finale involves using a real samurai sword to slice through two wooden poles, putting their skills to the ultimate test.
Meeting Point and Logistics
The dojo’s convenient location, just a brief 10-minute walk from JR Machida Station, ensures seamless accessibility for participants. Situated on the third floor, the Toyama-ryu Bizen-kai dojo can be reached by taking the stairs nestled between a sword shop and vending machines, providing a sense of anticipation and immersion before the experience begins.
To ensure a smooth and comfortable session, participants are asked to provide their height and weight in advance, allowing the instructors to prepare suitable training attire. This attention to detail ensures that everyone can fully enjoy the authentic samurai culture and focus on the exciting hands-on activities ahead.
| Meeting Point and Logistics | ||
|---|---|---|
| Location | Toyama-ryu Bizen-kai | 10-min walk from JR |
| dojo | Machida Station | |
| Accessibility | Third floor | Stairs between shop |
| and vending machines | ||
| Participant Information | Height and weight | Provided in advance |
Participant Restrictions
While the authentic samurai experience at the dojo offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage, it’s important to be mindful of certain participant restrictions to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.
The dojo isn’t suitable for:
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or heart conditions
- Wheelchair users
- Children under 18 years old
- People with epilepsy or visual impairments
These restrictions are in place to protect participants and maintain the integrity of the training.
The instructors are dedicated to providing a safe and engaging experience for all who attend, ensuring everyone can fully appreciate the art of traditional samurai swordsmanship.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants underscore the authentic and engaging nature of this samurai experience.
Customers consistently praise the expertise of the instructor, a direct descendant of a samurai lineage who brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the workshop.
Many highlight the comprehensive curriculum, which seamlessly blends hands-on practice with immersion in traditional samurai culture, leaving participants with a deep appreciation for this centuries-old art form.
Reviewers particularly raved about the thrill of wielding a real samurai sword and the sense of accomplishment from successfully completing the test cutting exercise.
Across the board, guests describe the dojo experience as a truly unforgettable opportunity to connect with Japan’s storied samurai heritage.
Taking in Samurai Culture
Immersion in the rich tapestry of samurai culture lies at the heart of this captivating experience, seamlessly blending hands-on training with deep insights into Japan’s storied warrior traditions.
From the moment participants step into the Toyama-ryu Bizen-kai dojo, they’re transported to a world where the ancient arts of swordsmanship are honored and preserved. The training attire, complete with traditional hakama and keikogi, immerses them in the aesthetic and discipline of the samurai.
Throughout the session, the instructor’s expert guidance and anecdotes shed light on the philosophy, etiquette, and history that underpins this revered martial art, leaving participants with a profound appreciation for its enduring significance.
- Authentic training attire: hakama and keikogi
- Insights into samurai philosophy, etiquette, and history
- Guided by an instructor descended from a samurai lineage
- Hands-on experience with real samurai swords
- Immersive exploration of Japan’s warrior culture
Hands-on Sword Handling Activities
At the heart of this transformative experience lies the hands-on exploration of authentic samurai swordsmanship, where participants wield real blades and hone their skills under the watchful eye of an expert instructor descended from a storied lineage.
The class is divided into three captivating segments: Iai, the art of drawing the sword, kendo sparring, and the thrilling test cutting of two poles.
Participants don traditional training attire, seeing the centuries-old traditions.
As they master the precise techniques, the instructor provides invaluable guidance, ensuring each student leaves with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the discipline and artistry of the samurai sword.
Acquiring a Handmade Certificate
Upon completing the immersive samurai experience, participants receive a handmade certificate commemorating their achievement, a tangible symbol of their newly acquired skills and appreciation for this revered cultural tradition.
The certificate is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring elegant calligraphy and traditional Japanese imagery that captures the essence of the samurai way.
This keepsake serves as a proud memento, allowing participants to:
- Reflect on the physical and mental challenges they overcame during the training
- Share their accomplishment with family and friends
- Deepen their connection to the rich history and philosophy of the samurai
- Inspire others to explore this unique aspect of Japanese heritage
- Maintain a lasting reminder of their transformative journey into the world of the samurai.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Samurai Sword to the Training?
No, participants cannot bring their own samurai swords to the training. The experience provides real samurai swords for participants to use during the session, ensuring proper safety and guidance from the expert instructor. Personal swords are not permitted.
Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Experience?
Extending the duration of the samurai experience is possible, though not specified in the overview. Participants could inquire with the dojo about adding more time for additional training or culture activities beyond the standard 2-hour session.
Are There Any Discounts or Group Packages Available?
Yes, there are discounted group packages available for the samurai experience. Parties of 3 or more can save up to 10% on the per-person rate, making it an even more affordable cultural adventure to enjoy with friends or family.
Can I Keep the Training Clothes After the Experience?
No, the training clothes are not included for participants to keep after the experience. These are provided for the duration of the samurai training session to fully take in the authentic culture and techniques.
Is There an Option to Have the Training in a Private Session?
Yes, the dojo offers private sessions for guests who’d like a more personalized experience. This option allows visitors to receive one-on-one instruction and practice the samurai techniques at their own pace without a group.
Recap
This immersive samurai experience in Tokyo offers a rare opportunity to fully take in the rich heritage and warrior spirit of Japan.
Under the guidance of an expert instructor, participants master the art of swordsmanship, donning traditional attire and engaging in authentic Iai and kendo practices.
The hands-on activities and personalized certificate make this an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japan’s captivating samurai culture.
