The Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience offers a unique glimpse into the rich martial arts tradition of Japan. Set in a historic building, the immersive program equips participants with authentic training gear and guides them through the fundamentals of kendo under the tutelage of a skilled instructor. The highlight of the session – cutting a tatami mat – adds an exhilarating element to the experience. With an impressive rating from previous attendees, this activity promises to transport visitors to a world of ancient swordsmanship, leaving them eager to uncover more about the captivating culture of Kyoto.
Key Points
- Participants can dress in authentic training gear and wield genuine swords during a 2-hour kendo and sword handling experience in a 120-year-old building in Kyoto.
- The activity is guided by a skilled kendo instructor, who teaches proper techniques and etiquette, culminating in a mat-cutting activity for an immersive samurai experience.
- The activity has received an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 52 reviews, with customers praising the excellent value for money and the memorable, hands-on nature of the experience.
- The activity is suitable for a wide range of adults, with a minimum age requirement of 7 years, and is conveniently located near Gion-Shijo Station in Kyoto.
- The experience includes the rental of full uniform, equipment, and shoes, as well as the opportunity to take home photos and videos captured during the session.
Experience Overview
This authentic kendo and sword handling experience in Kyoto provides visitors with a unique opportunity to step into the world of the samurai.
The 2-hour activity takes place in a 120-year-old traditional building, where participants can dress in real training gear and wield genuine swords.
Under the guidance of a skilled kendo instructor, guests will learn the art of sword handling and even have the chance to cut a tatami mat as part of the experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a likelihood of selling out, this immersive samurai experience isn’t to be missed by those visiting Kyoto.
Activity Highlights
Feel like an authentic samurai as you experience the art of kendo and sword handling in a 120-year-old traditional Kyoto building.
Don’t just watch – dress in real training gear and wield a genuine sword. Under the guidance of a skilled kendo instructor, learn the proper techniques and etiquette.
You’ll even get to cut a tatari mat as part of the experience. Throughout the two-hour session, your instructor will capture photos and videos to help you relive the memorable moments.
This unique opportunity lets you learn about the rich history and traditions of Japanese swordsmanship.
Inclusions
The Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience includes all the essentials to immerse participants in the art of Japanese swordsmanship.
Visitors will receive instruction on kendo and proper sword handling techniques from a skilled instructor. The experience also provides the rental of a full uniform, equipment, shoes, and gear, allowing participants to dress the part of an authentic samurai.
As the highlight of the activity, guests will get to cut a tatami mat using a replica sword. Plus, the instructor will capture photos and videos throughout the session, providing participants with lasting memories of their Kyoto samurai adventure.
Participant Guidelines
Participants for the Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience must be at least 7 years of age or older. The experience isn’t suitable for children under 7 due to the physical nature of the activities and the use of genuine swords.
The meeting point is an old Japanese house with a large gate, providing an authentic setting for the samurai-inspired session. Visitors will dress in real training gear and wield genuine swords under the guidance of a skilled kendo instructor.
The experience culminates in a mat-cutting activity, allowing participants to feel like authentic samurai. With its age requirement and traditional venue, this immersive experience caters to a wide range of adults seeking a unique cultural adventure in Kyoto.
Customer Feedback
Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 52 reviews.
Participants have highlighted the excellent value for money, with a 4.7/5 rating in this category. Reviewers from diverse backgrounds, including families and solo travelers, recommend the experience for its fun, exceptional instruction, and unique insights into traditional Japanese swordsmanship.
The hands-on nature of the activity, the chance to dress in authentic gear, and the opportunity to cut a tatami mat have all been noted as highlights.
The combination of a historic setting, skilled guidance, and memorable takeaways makes this a must-try for visitors to Kyoto.
Getting to the Experience
One of the best things about the Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience is its convenient meeting point. The activity starts at an old Japanese house with a large gate, making it easy for participants to find. The location is in the heart of Kyoto, allowing visitors to explore the historic city before or after their samurai experience.
| Getting There | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 123 Samurai Street, Kyoto, Japan |
| Transportation | Close to Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line |
| Parking | Limited on-site parking available |
| Meeting Time | Participants should arrive 15 minutes before the start time |
The meeting point’s accessibility and central location in Kyoto make this authentic samurai experience a hassle-free activity to enjoy during your visit.
What to Expect
Upon arrival at the old Japanese house, participants are greeted by the skilled kendo instructor.
They’re then led into the traditional 120-year-old building, where they don the authentic training gear – a hakama and keikogi.
The instructor provides a thorough orientation on the history and techniques of kendo, ensuring everyone understands the proper way to handle the genuine Japanese swords.
Participants then take turns practicing the sword-wielding forms, focusing on fluid movements and controlled strikes.
The highlight is when they get to cut through a tatami mat, truly feeling like a samurai.
Throughout the session, the instructor captures photos and videos to commemorate the unique experience.
Pricing and Booking
Whereas the Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience may sell out quickly, the pricing is quite reasonable, with rates starting from £2,483 per person.
The 2-hour activity includes instruction on kendo and sword handling, rental of the uniform and equipment, and the chance to cut a tatami mat.
Plus, the experience provides participants with photos and videos taken by the instructor.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for full refunds.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 and positive reviews highlighting the fun, excellent instruction, and unique nature of the experience, the Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience offers excellent value for money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Sword Handling Training Last?
The sword handling training lasts 2 hours, providing an authentic samurai experience in a 120-year-old traditional Kyoto building. Participants dress in real training gear and wield genuine swords under the guidance of a skilled kendo instructor.
Can Participants Use Their Own Swords During the Experience?
No, participants cannot use their own swords during the experience. The experience includes rental of the necessary uniform, equipment, and replica swords for the activities. Personal swords are not allowed for safety and insurance reasons.
Is Photography and Videography Allowed During the Activity?
The experience allows photography and videography during the activity. The instructor will take photos and videos of participants as they learn and practice kendo, including when cutting the tatami mat with a genuine sword.
Can the Uniform and Equipment Be Taken Home as Souvenirs?
The uniform and equipment used during the kendo experience cannot be taken home as souvenirs. They’re rental items provided for the duration of the activity and must be returned to the instructor at the end.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for Participation?
The experience is suitable for adults aged 7 and older, but not for children under 7. There are no specific fitness requirements, as the instructors guide participants through the activities based on their skill levels.
Recap
The Kyoto Kendo and Samurai Experience is a must-do for those seeking an immersive cultural adventure. With its authentic equipment, skilled instruction, and thrilling tatami mat cutting, this activity offers an unparalleled glimpse into the world of Japanese swordsmanship. Boasting an impressive rating, it’s no surprise this experience is highly recommended for a unique and memorable time in Kyoto.
