Viator Rating : 5 (28 reviews)
Kyoto
Kyoto Samurai Armor: Matcha, Calligraphy & Photoshoot
90
Overview
Kyoto Samurai Armor Experience: Matcha, Calligraphy, Photoshoot in Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, lets guests step back in time and become a samurai. This experience, perfect for families and history buffs, offers a fun and immersive look into samurai culture. Guests will get to wear real samurai armor, learn calligraphy, enjoy traditional matcha tea, and have a professional photoshoot.
The adventure begins with a calligraphy lesson, where guests learn to write their name or a favorite phrase on a samurai war fan. Then, it's time to get dressed in authentic samurai armor. The staff, trained by a master craftsman for Japanese festivals and movies, will help each guest find the perfect fit from over 30 sets of armor for adults and children. After that, guests can enjoy a special matcha tea ceremony called “Buke-cha” (Samurai Tea) in a hall filled with more than 20 samurai armors from long ago.
Finally, everyone will take a walk to Sanjo Riverside, and cheer like a warrior. The staff will capture the moment with photos and videos, creating lasting memories of this unique cultural experience. This isn't just a tour; it's a chance to live like a samurai for a day. 
Highlights
Become a Samurai: Dress up in real samurai armor and feel like a warrior.
Learn Calligraphy: Write your name on a samurai fan using Japanese calligraphy.
Enjoy Matcha Tea: Taste special matcha tea in a hall full of samurai armor.
Take Home Memories: Get photos and videos to remember your samurai adventure.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved wearing the samurai armor and felt like real warriors.
-
Many visitors enjoyed the matcha tea ceremony and thought it was a unique experience.
-
The staff was very helpful and made the whole experience fun for everyone.
-
People enjoyed taking photos in the armor and thought they turned out great.
Some guests wished the samurai walk was longer.
-
A few people found it a little difficult to understand some of the instructions.
The Journey
Calligraphy Session
Begin your samurai journey by learning the art of calligraphy. Write your name or a meaningful phrase on a traditional samurai war fan (Gun-sen) using kanji. This fan is yours to keep as a memento of your experience.
Armor Fitting
Get dressed in authentic samurai armor with the help of trained staff. Choose from a selection of 30 sets, with options available for children, women, and larger guests, ensuring a comfortable and authentic fit.
Matcha Tea Ceremony
Enjoy a traditional matcha tea ceremony in a hall surrounded by over 20 suits of real samurai armor. Savor "Katana" matcha tea, the same tea served at the Hiroshima G7 Summit, for a truly unique experience.
Samurai Walk to Sanjo Riverside
Embark on a short walk to Sanjo Riverside dressed in your samurai armor. Shout a battle cheer and feel like a celebrity as people take photos of you in your impressive attire.
Photoshoot
Capture the memories with group and individual photos taken by the staff. Feel free to use your own smartphone as well to get the perfect shot in your samurai armor.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes admission fees, a locker to store belongings, and snacks. You can take home the war fan and tabi socks after the experience. This experience does not include anything else other than what is listed. Guests will meet at the designated location in Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto to begin their samurai adventure.
Hot Tip
Many people suggest taking lots of pictures and videos to remember the fun. Also, make sure to ask the staff any questions you have about the armor or samurai culture!
Review Summary
People usually say this Kyoto Samurai Armor Experience is highly authentic and immersive, with friendly, knowledgeable staff who enhance the enjoyment by sharing samurai history and culture. The unique setting with genuine armor and the traditional matcha tea session are frequently praised, as are the professional photos capturing the moments. Some reviewers note the experience is concise but well-paced, while a few mention that hands-on sword handling is limited and that the session is better suited to those interested in cultural appreciation rather than intensive sword practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is complied by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Osaka
¥19800
Osaka Samurai Training: Kendo Experience
5.0
(505 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Samurai Training Experience KENDO in Osaka allows one to step into the legendary world of the samurai. This unique experience offers an authentic introduction to Kendo, complete with English translation for easy understanding. The dojo doubles as a samurai museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of samurai artifacts and memorabilia. Visitors can capture memorable photos and videos with genuine samurai props, creating lasting memories of their time in Osaka.
During the Kendo experience, participants will learn about Kendo's history, etiquette ('Reiho'), and the Bushido spirit. They'll have the opportunity to wear Kendo protective armor, including the 'Dogi/Hakama' (Kendo uniform), 'Men' (mask), 'Kote' (arm protectors), 'Do' (torso protector), and 'Tare' (leg protector). Armed with a 'Shinai' (bamboo sword), participants will practice striking techniques and engage in friendly competition based on match format.
Located in Osaka City, the dojo is easily accessible. It also offers modern facilities like showers, air conditioning, heating, and changing rooms for convenience and comfort. Please note that for children aged three to five years old, due to the complexity of Kendo, the primary activities will be trying on clothes and taking pictures.
Kyoto
¥18000
Kyoto Samurai Experience: Swords, Zen & Culture
5.0
(1289 reviews)
Duration: 105
minutes
Kyoto Samurai Experience offers an immersive journey into the heart of Japan's warrior culture. Visitors can step back in time and discover the Way of the Samurai in Kyoto. This experience provides a firsthand look into the world of the samurai. Participants dress in traditional attire, delve into the history of the warrior class, and witness captivating demonstrations by expert instructors.
The adventure continues with hands-on swordsmanship practice, starting with a wooden sword before progressing to a genuine katana. Under expert guidance, individuals learn the art of cutting through a rolled tatami mat, refining their technique and precision. The experience culminates in a Zen meditation session, offering a moment of calm and focus, a practice used by samurai to center themselves.
This unique experience includes a professional instructor, use of a genuine katana, photos of the activity, and a Zen meditation session. It excludes food and drinks. With highly-rated instructors, the Kyoto Samurai Experience promises an unforgettable and authentic encounter with samurai culture.
Kyoto
¥13500
Kyoto: Ninja Training with a Japanese Master!
5.0
(488 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Ninja 1-hour Hands-on Lesson by Japanese master in Kyoto -Entry offers a unique and exciting opportunity to learn the ancient art of ninjutsu from a real Japanese master. This isn't just any class; it's a hands-on experience that you won't find anywhere else. Perfect for families, curious travelers, and anyone who's ever dreamed of being a ninja, this lesson provides a fun and engaging introduction to the world of these legendary warriors.
During the one-hour session, participants will delve into the core techniques of ninja training. The session begins with traditional dojo etiquette and ninja meditation known as 'Kuji-kiri'. Students will then learn how to control their breathing like a ninja, similar to yoga. Basic Japanese martial arts stances and the art of stealthy ninja walking are also covered. The training includes instruction and demonstrations on using a real ninja sword, dagger(Kunai), ninja stars(Shuriken), and even a ninja blowgun.
This experience includes admission fees and ninja clothes rental for the duration of the training. A Japanese 'Sensei' master, trained in the Ninja-Arts, leads the lesson in English. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as food and drinks, are not included. Get ready to unleash inner ninja with expert guidance.
Kyoto
¥18000
Unleash Your Inner Ninja: 2-Hour Hands-On Training in Kyoto!
5.0
(215 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
In this Ninja Hands-on lesson in Kyoto, discover authentic ninja techniques. Suitable for elementary-level English speakers, the 2-hour session covers meditation, breath control ('Kuji-kiri'), and unique ninja walking. Experience a blend of martial arts and cultural immersion, complete with ninja attire. A fun, unique and engaging experience!
Kyoto
¥20000
Kyoto Samurai Training: Unleash Your Inner Warrior
5.0
(252 reviews)
Duration: 105
minutes
Samurai Training with Modern Musashi offers authentic katana experience in Kyoto. Learn swordsmanship from masters in a dojo. Master katana handling, cutting techniques, and samurai culture. Witness live demonstrations, and optionally continue training online. Perfect for martial arts enthusiasts seeking unique cultural immersion.
Osaka
¥18000
Unleash Your Inner Warrior: 2-Hour Kendo Experience in Osaka!
5.0
(65 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Immerse yourself in a 2-Hour Kendo Experience with an English instructor in Osaka. Perfect for beginners, learn basic etiquette, armor usage, and fundamental techniques. Enjoy hands-on practice with provided equipment and a free kendo towel. A unique cultural introduction to Kendo in Japan.
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