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Samurai School in Kyoto: Experience Traditional Kenbu Lessons and Samurai Etiquette
4.9
201 Ratings
Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the world of samurai at our Kyoto school. Learn traditional Kenbu and samurai etiquette, wield a Japanese sword, and capture memories in authentic costumes.
Immerse yourself in the world of samurai at our Kyoto school. Learn traditional Kenbu and samurai etiquette, wield a Japanese sword, and capture memories in authentic costumes.
Duration:
1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Samurai Kembu Theater - Learn about the etiquette of samurai classes in feudal Japan and practice some basic Kenbu, including how to use the Japanese sword. Introduction to the basics, to learn choreographed movements with a sword and folding fan. Top off your experience of this traditional Japanese art with a photo session in costume, and take home a certificate of achievement.
- Samurai Kembu Theater - Learn about the etiquette of samurai classes in feudal Japan and practice some basic Kenbu, including how to use the Japanese sword. Introduction to the basics, to learn choreographed movements with a sword and folding fan. Top off your experience of this traditional Japanese art with a photo session in costume, and take home a certificate of achievement.
What's Included
- Lesson completion certificate
- Photo shoot
- English-speaking local guide/instructor
- Tenugui towel (Japanese traditional towel)
- Lesson completion certificate
- Photo shoot
- English-speaking local guide/instructor
- Tenugui towel (Japanese traditional towel)
What's Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
Additional Information
Familiarize yourself with the customs of the samurai class during the feudal era of Japan and get hands-on with some elementary Kenbu exercises, including wielding a Japanese blade. Participate in an extensive Kenbu class to master prearranged routines with a sword and hand fan. Round out your immersive experience of this ancient Japanese craft with a…
Familiarize yourself with the customs of the samurai class during the feudal era of Japan and get hands-on with some elementary Kenbu exercises, including wielding a Japanese blade. Participate in an extensive Kenbu class to master prearranged routines with a sword and hand fan. Round out your immersive experience of this ancient Japanese craft with a costumed photoshoot, and receive a certificate of accomplishment to take with you.
- For safety reasons, please follow the instructor’s instructions on the day.
- Please arrive 10 minutes to 3 minutes prior to the start time.
- On the day of the event, please come to the first basement floor from the stairs on the right side of the GOZAN building.
- If participants are between the ages of 5 and 11, it is preferable that they are attending some kind of class or martial arts school.
- Please wear clothes suited for exercise and moving around. Visiting in a single hoodie or tights is not suitable for costume changes
- If you wish to cancel a reservation, you must do so yourself on Viator.
Location
Sanchōme, ３５
[Exact address]
Samurai Kenbu Theater/605-0005 Kyoto Prefecture Kyoto city 35-7 Sanchome, Higashiyama-Ku GOZAN Bldg. B1F
*It's located on the 1st basement floor of the GOZAN Bldg.(former NeoArt Bldg.)
*Please come down the stairs on the right side of the toward the GOZAN Bldg. to the reception desk.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.9
(201 Ratings)
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Tetyana_h
Oct 28, 2025
Wonderful experience - The samurai experience in Kyoto was absolutely fantastic! From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in the world of samurai culture. Dressing up in traditional attire was a fun start, and we felt like true warriors as we learned sword moves and practiced techniques with expert guidance. The highlight was definitely the dance with katanas—both exhilarating and mesmerizing!
We also enjoyed a live performance that brought the samurai tradition to life in a way we hadn’t expected. To top it all off, we had a photoshoot at the end, capturing memories of our time as samurai. This experience was both fun and educational, and we left feeling like we had truly stepped into history. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an exciting, hands-on cultural experience in Kyoto!
Review provided by Viator
Nicole_f
Oct 4, 2025
Great family fun - A lot if fun with my 17 year old son, who has no patience for museums or long explanations. The workshop was hands on, with a sword and costume, exactly what we needed to get a taste and some knowledge about Samurai s
Review provided by Viator
Camper28114662233
Aug 5, 2025
In the skin of a samurai - Great experience to discover absolutely in Kyoto!!
The Sensei were really pro and very friendly!!
To do without hesitation!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Katie_p
Jun 16, 2025
Don’t miss this unique experience! - One of the highlights of our trip to Japan! My husband and I had the best time not only dressing in traditional outfits but also learning the moves and performing for each other. 10/10 experience!
Review provided by Viator
Charisem2017
Jun 10, 2025
Fun and Informative - What a great experience! My son and I had a great time learning about Samurai and how to use the katana. Learning the mini routine was a surprise and also fun to learn. The demonstration that followed was great to watch. This was one of the highlights of our trip.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Michelle_m
Jun 6, 2025
Highly recommend - Easy to find venue. The show was delightful and it wasn’t too crowded. Afterwards, my family and one other family got to learn how to use katana. We chose what we wanted to wear as traditional garb. We had plenty of time to take pictures. Highly recommend.
Review provided by Viator
Jegohi98
May 25, 2025
Top experience, although it would be 10/10 without children - The show is very picturesque, has even a touch of humor and show basics of samurai and kembu art.
The worst part was that children are allowed in, and while the function is developing they are crying, watering or disturbing the other spectators. I'd understand if they were involved in the handling of the sword, but I don't think it's a good idea to allow them to be present at the performance.
Regarding the part where you are taught the basics of kembu I have to say 10/10. They have a very fun way of teaching you, you learn fast thanks to them, they are very patient, understanding and make you part of this art very quickly. A standout for them!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Usscyrene
May 16, 2025
Samurai for an Afternoon - An education and an experience is best describe my afternoon here. I’ve come away with a memory and a fresh enthusiasm to learn more. A performance of samurai poetry followed by katana handling and learning a few moves. My thanks to the team at the Samurai Kenbu Theatre.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jeanne_t
Apr 28, 2025
We were taught how to... - We were taught how to wear the samurai costume and how to use the katana. We absorbed a lot about traditional Japanese samurai culture and respectfully watched a mini show after our lesson. Terrific experience for those interested.
Review provided by Viator
David_m
Apr 28, 2025
Great Experience! Totally worth it! - We got dressed and trained in Samurai techniques for close to 1 1/2 hrs and then got to see their show. Great experience and very fun with a very patient teacher. Totally worth it!
Review provided by Viator
