Samurai are a symbol of Japan’s history and culture. Due to the influence of period dramas and anime, many foreigners admire samurai. When visiting Japan, many people want to experience the skills and spirit of real samurai. Fortunately, Tokyo offers a variety of shows and interactive programs where you can get up close and personal with samurai culture. In this article, we will introduce the charm of samurai and the best places in Tokyo to experience them.
１．What is a Samurai?
Samurai were members of the warrior class who played an active role from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. They followed an ethical code called Bushido, which emphasized loyalty and honor. While there are no samurai as warriors today, their spirit still lives on in Japanese culture.
I believe that the pride and politeness of the samurai are fundamental values in Japanese society. Learning about swordsmanship and the spirit of Bushido will deepen your understanding of Japanese culture.
２．Three Samurai Experiences to Try
①Samurai Show (Original Story of Miyamoto Musashi) [Asakusa]
Price: From 13,000 JPY
Duration: about 1 hour
In Tokyo, you can enjoy thrilling samurai shows performed by skilled actors. One of the most recommended shows is based on an original story of the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi. This performance takes place in a traditional Japanese house, creating an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back to the Edo period.
The show features tate (Japanese sword fighting choreography), allowing you to witness realistic swordplay and intense action up close. The experience is truly immersive. Although the plan is labeled as “Asakusa,” the actual location is closer to Ueno, so keep that in mind when visiting.
Click here to book ➡ [Asakusa] [Private] [2-9 people] Samurai show! Powerful skills and acting by active actors!
②Samurai Experience (Learning Sword Fighting) [Asakusa]
Price: From 15,000 JPY
Duration: about 1 hour
Tate refers to the choreographed fighting techniques used in Japanese period dramas. It is not just about action but also about expressing beauty and the samurai spirit. In Tokyo, you can do more than just watch—you can become a samurai yourself through hands-on training programs.
In this experience, you will learn basic techniques in about an hour and perform a scene where you defeat an enemy, which will be filmed. The best part is that you can feel like a real samurai. You will receive the recorded video afterward, making it a special memory of your trip to Japan. Like the samurai show, this program is also labeled as “Asakusa” but is actually closer to Ueno, so be sure to check the location in advance.
Click here to book ➡ [Tokyo・Asakusa][Private] Samurai experience for 2-8 people! Learn authentic techniques from active movie actors! Beautiful swordplay, Japanese spirit and technique all here!
③Private Samurai Lesson by Kenbu Ukon School (My Recommendation) [Asakusa]
Price: From 15,000 JPY
Duration: 1–2 hours
Among the samurai experiences available, the one I highly recommend is the Kenbu Ukon-style private lesson near Asakusa Station. This program is supervised by Koutou Ukon, the head of the internationally recognized Kenbu Ukon school, and offers an authentic samurai experience.
Since the lesson is completely private for each group, even beginners can participate with confidence. You will also have a professional video shoot of your sword-fighting performance, and you will receive the data on an SD card, allowing you to take your memories home instantly.
Additionally, you will receive a certificate with your photo as proof of your samurai training, making it a great keepsake. There are very few places where you can have such a genuine samurai experience, so I highly recommend this for those looking for something special.
Click here to book ➡ [Tokyo, Asakusa] Samurai (swordsmanship) experience/Samurai Training Tokyo Asakusa
★You can search for other samurai experience programs here. ➡ Other programs
A samurai experience is a valuable opportunity to understand Japan’s history and culture more deeply. By not only watching but also actively participating, you can truly feel the depth of samurai spirit and skills. Tokyo offers various samurai-related activities, so be sure to choose the plan that best suits you.
Why not immerse yourself in the world of samurai and make unforgettable memories on your trip to Japan?
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