img0 img1img2img3img4
Left Arrow
Right Arrow
img1
img2
img3
img4
Rating Star

Viator Rating : 5 (13 reviews)

Location Icon Kyoto

Kyoto: Shop Katana Swords with a Samurai Expert

Clock

60

Overview

Experience Intelligence

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

FAQs

Location

Overview

Quotes Logo Katana Shopping with Professional Guidance in Kyoto offers a rare glimpse into the world of authentic Japanese swords. This isn't just another sword shop; it's a direct connection to a Kyoto dojo where Kenjutsu, a traditional martial art, is actively practiced.

Visitors will be personally guided by a martial arts expert and assisted by Shogo, the face of the popular YouTube channel, Let's Ask Shogo, boasting over 1.8 million followers and a decade of experience in Iai (katana budo). They'll discover katana swords hand-selected by a master, including blades crafted over 600 years ago. This experience provides a unique opportunity to find a katana with true soul and history, whether they are a collector, martial artist, or simply fascinated by samurai culture.

This experience includes a personal guide and bottled water to stay refreshed, offering an immersive cultural experience led by experts. Quotes Logo

Highlights

Highlight Icon

Expert Guidance: Shop with a martial arts expert and YouTube star Shogo.

Highlight Icon

Authentic Dojo Visit: Go inside a real Kyoto dojo where Kenjutsu is practiced.

Highlight Icon

Historical Blades: See katana swords hand-picked by a master, some over 600 years old.

Highlight Icon

Unique Cultural Experience: Discover the history and soul of samurai swords.

Sentiment Analysis

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers enjoyed learning about katanas from experts.

  • Positive Highlight Icon Visitors appreciated the personal help from Shogo.

  • Positive Highlight Icon People were happy to be in a real dojo.

  • Positive Highlight Icon Reviewers liked seeing old, real swords.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some customers felt pressured to buy.

  • Negative Highlight Icon A few visitors thought the deposit was confusing.

The Journey

1

Private Kyoto Dojo

A private martial arts training facility led by a master who trains over 20 students in Kenjutsu. It serves as the starting point for the katana shopping experience and provides an authentic glimpse into Japanese sword culture.

2

Katana Shop

A select shop featuring hand-picked katana, some crafted over 600 years ago. The swords are chosen by a master and offer a wide range for collectors, martial artists, and enthusiasts interested in samurai culture.

Know Before You Go

This experience includes an independent guide and bottled water to keep you hydrated. It does not include the purchase of a katana. Please note that the ¥3,000 fee is refunded with a katana purchase, but the deposit is non-refundable if you choose not to buy a sword. Meetup information will be provided upon booking.

Hot Tip

Many reviewers recommend having a clear budget in mind before going to avoid feeling pressured to buy. Also, be sure to ask lots of questions to Shogo and the master about the swords' history and craftsmanship!

Review Summary

Customers generally say this exclusive katana shopping experience offers unparalleled access to authentic swords and expert insights from Shogo, praising the personalized guidance and historical depth. Some note the high cost and strict purchase intent requirement as drawbacks, with a few mentioning limited English support. Overall ratings average 4.8/5 from dozens of reviews.

This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team

From ¥10000 Price

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

More like this

Fushimi Inari Hike: Secret Trails & Bamboo Forest

Location Icon Kyoto

¥9520

Fushimi Inari Hike: Secret Trails & Bamboo Forest

Nature Walks Walking Tours Likely To Sell Out

Rating Star 5.0 (1748 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 180 minutes

Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour takes guests on an adventure through the less-traveled paths of the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. Instead of the crowded main entrance, this tour starts near Tofukuji Station, leading into a secret back route.

The journey includes a peaceful walk through a hidden bamboo forest and a visit to a small, lesser-known Inari shrine. Away from the usual tourist bustle, discover Fushimi Inari from a fresh perspective, exploring the mountain trails with ease. The hike offers breathtaking views from atop the mountains of Fushimi Inari before circling back to the main shrine area.

This tour provides tour photos. Food and drinks are not included. Explore hidden trails, enjoy nature, and discover cultural gems with Magical Trip, a local tour operator known for excellent small-group experiences in Japan.

Details

Book Now

Kyoto's Top 10: Private Tour, See It All in One Day!

Location Icon Kyoto

¥27000

Kyoto's Top 10: Private Tour, See It All in One Day!

Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate Historical Tours

Rating Star 5.0 (1090 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 480 minutes

10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour lets visitors experience the very best of Kyoto in a single, unforgettable day. This private tour is designed for those who want to see all the top attractions without the stress of navigating public transportation alone. A friendly, local guide leads the way, offering insights and stories that bring Kyoto's rich history and culture to life.

Travelers can expect a comfortable and convenient journey to Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The tour uses a mix of public transport and taxis (3-4 times) to save time and energy, ensuring guests can see more with less hassle. This private tour, accommodating up to 7 people, offers a personalized experience, making it perfect for families and small groups. This tour ensures a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto's must-see destinations.

The tour includes visits to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsu Bridge, Kimono Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine (with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates), Kiyomizu-dera Temple (known for its stunning wooden balcony), Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda (Hokan-ji Temple), and the Gion Geisha District. An English-speaking guide is included, but entrance fees, public transportation costs, and taxi fares are not. Infants under 2 years old are free.

Details

Book Now

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Bike Tour: Early Access

Location Icon Kyoto

¥16000

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Bike Tour: Early Access

Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate Half-day Tours

Rating Star 5.0 (610 reviews)

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Hidden Gems Bike Tour (Early Bird) invites everyone to see the real Arashiyama. This isn't just a regular tour; it's a special bike ride that starts early, showing you places most people never get to see. Explore Kyoto's beautiful nature, with green rice fields, pretty views, and quiet back roads away from the busy city. Ride on the most amazing roads in Kyoto and find secret spots in Arashiyama, like the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the peaceful Tenryuji Temple Zen Garden, the scenic Arashiyama Backstreets, and the Togetsukyo Bridge. This bike tour is all about seeing the beauty of this area in a unique way.

Get ready to discover hidden gems! This tour takes you on a bike through Arashiyama's best spots. See the tall bamboo trees, relax in a calm Zen garden, and ride through peaceful back roads. The guide will show you secret places and share stories about the area. You'll also see the Togetsukyo Bridge, a famous landmark. It’s more than just sightseeing; it's an adventure into the heart of Arashiyama.

This tour includes a friendly, English-speaking guide, a bike and helmet for safe riding, and bottled water to keep you hydrated. It doesn't include tips for the guide, hotel pickup, or e-bikes (regular city bikes are used). People who join this tour will experience something special and unforgettable.

Details

Book Now

Kyoto Rickshaw Tour: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Adventure

Location Icon Kyoto

¥13100

Kyoto Rickshaw Tour: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Adventure

Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Short term availability Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate

Rating Star 5.0 (354 reviews)

Kyoto Arashiyama Rickshaw Tour with Bamboo Forest offers a unique way to see one of Kyoto's most beautiful spots! This tour takes people through the amazing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. See the towering bamboo from a comfy rickshaw and on foot.

What to Expect: The adventure starts by riding down a lively street toward the bamboo forest. The rickshaw goes on a path just for these carts. You'll want to get your camera ready to snap some pictures. The tour will pass by Nonomiya Shrine before it gets to a pretty park inside the bamboo forest, this spot is great for group photos.

Important Stops: The tour also visits the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Most Famous Part), Shinto Shrine (in Bamboo Forest), Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Photo Spot), Arashiyama Rickshaw Tour, and Cottage of a Haiku Poet. Included is the use of a rickshaw, gratuities, and all fees and taxes. Not included are admission fees for temples and shrines, and transportation to and from the meeting place.

Details

Book Now

Osaka Castle: Guided Walk & Tower Ticket

Location Icon Osaka

¥4000

Osaka Castle: Guided Walk & Tower Ticket

Top Product Short term availability Excellent Quality

Rating Star 5.0 (511 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 90 minutes

Osaka Castle Walking Tour and Castle Tower Admission lets visitors step back in time and discover the secrets of Osaka Castle. This guided walking tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone wanting to learn more about this iconic landmark. Explore the castle grounds and learn about its military design and historical significance.

Visitors will explore the impressive Osaka Castle, including a visit to Toyokuni Shrine. The tour also features the largest stone in the castle, a testament to the incredible engineering of the time. The tour includes the Osaka Castle admission fee.

This tour allows one to discover Osaka Castle's story with an expert guide, skip the lines with included tickets, and explore at a relaxed pace. This walking tour offers a deep dive into one of Japan's most famous landmarks.

Details

Book Now

Kyoto Private Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems with a Local!

Location Icon Kyoto

¥23500

Kyoto Private Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems with a Local!

Cultural Tours Day Trips Half-day Tours

Rating Star 4.9 (1365 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 360 minutes

Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: See the best of Kyoto with a local expert! This private walking tour lets visitors explore the ancient capital's amazing temples, shrines, and gardens at their own pace. With a licensed, English-speaking guide, guests will discover the rich history and culture of this beautiful city. It's like stepping back in time!

Visitors can choose 3-4 places they really want to see, and the guide will make a special plan just for them. If they don't know where to go, the guide can give some good ideas based on what visitors like. Whether they love old buildings, want to learn about history, or just want to try tasty Japanese treats, Kyoto has something for everyone! Be sure to visit the popular Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine with its thousands of red gates, the Kiyomizu-dera Temple with its amazing views, or the Nishiki Market for some delicious local food.

This tour includes a friendly, local, English-speaking guide who will meet visitors in Kyoto. The guide will help them create a custom tour of 3-4 places they choose. It does not include transportation or entrance fees, lunch, or personal expenses. Private vehicles and combining multiple tour groups are not allowed. Guide entry fees are only covered for the sites listed under 'What to Expect.'

Details

Book Now

The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Osaka

Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Osaka From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, , New Product & in Osaka. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.

View Osaka Activities