Immersing oneself in the traditional Japanese martial art of kendo is an opportunity not to be missed. In the ancient capital of Kyoto, visitors can don the full kendo uniform and wield the bamboo shinai sword under the guidance of experienced instructors. This private tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, allowing participants to learn authentic kendo techniques and get a glimpse into the way of the samurai. However, with only a limited time available, decisions must be made – will you seize this chance to explore the traditions of this centuries-old martial art?
About Our Review: We hope you find our review helpful! Though we don’t operate tours, you can easily book this experience using the button at the bottom of this page. If you do make a booking, we will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Key Points
- Unique kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto, where participants don traditional uniforms and learn sword-fighting techniques from experienced instructors.
- Private tour with undivided attention, allowing for a personalized and immersive experience in the traditional Japanese martial art.
- Meeting point is a 15-minute walk from Shugakuin Station, with a large gate marking the entrance to the narrow path.
- All necessary equipment, including the shinai (bamboo sword), is provided and included in the cost, ensuring a complete and authentic experience.
- Cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and the activity may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers is not met.
More tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Experience
This unique experience in Kyoto allows visitors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of kendo, the traditional Japanese martial art of sword fighting, and the way of the samurai.
Participants will have the opportunity to don the full kendo uniform and equipment, and learn the basic techniques and movements of this ancient discipline under the guidance of experienced instructors.
The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized and authentic experience, allowing participants to fully engage with the history and philosophy behind this revered martial art.
With its convenient location, just a short walk from Shugakuin Station, this kendo and samurai experience offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s legendary warrior traditions.
Meeting Point and Accessibility
The meeting point for the kendo and samurai experience is located at 606-8037, Kyoto City, Sakyo Ward, Shugakuin Daidocho 16, which is a 15-minute walk from Shugakuin Station.
Visitors will find a large gate marking the entrance to the narrow path that leads to the activity’s venue.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed, and the location is near public transportation.
However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as most travelers can participate.
Kendo Uniform and Equipment
The kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto includes providing participants with the necessary kendo uniform and equipment for the duration of the activity.
This includes a traditional kendo outfit, consisting of a heavy padded jacket called a dōgi, loose-fitting pants called hakama, and a protective men’s mask.
Participants will also be given a shinai, which is a bamboo sword used in kendo practice.
All the equipment is provided and included in the cost of the experience.
The staff ensures that the uniform and gear fit properly and that participants are comfortable throughout the session.
This allows guests to fully enjoy the traditional Japanese martial art of kendo without having to worry about bringing their own equipment.
Private Tour and Participation
The kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto is a private tour, where only your group will participate in the activities.
This means you’ll have the undivided attention of the instructors, who’ll guide you through the traditional Japanese martial arts.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you’ll get to don the authentic kendo uniform and equipment and learn the techniques firsthand.
The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized and immersive experience, allowing you to fully embrace the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.
With the minimum number of travelers requirement, you can rest assured that the experience will proceed as scheduled, providing you with an unforgettable glimpse into the world of samurai and kendo.
Recommended and Not Recommended
Certain individuals may not be recommended to participate in the kendo and samurai experience due to physical limitations or medical conditions. For instance, those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions are advised against taking part in the activity.
However, the experience is generally accessible to most travelers. The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed, and the location is near public transportation.
Cancellation Policy and Refunds
Travelers can cancel their kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but no refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time.
Any changes requested less than 24 hours prior to the start of the activity won’t be accepted.
This experience requires a minimum number of participants, and it may be canceled if the minimum isn’t met. In that case, travelers will receive a full refund.
Minimum Number of Travelers
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers in order to proceed, and it may be canceled if that minimum is not met, in which case you will receive a full refund. The minimum number of travelers needed to run this activity is clearly stated in the booking confirmation. If the minimum is not met, the organizers will notify participants in advance and provide a full refund. This policy ensures that the kendo and samurai experience is only offered when there is sufficient interest, providing a more personalized and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Minimum Number of Travelers | Refund Policy | Cancellation Policy |
---|---|---|
Clearly stated in booking | Full refund if minimum not met | 24-hour notice for full refund |
Ensures personalized experience | Organizers notify participants in advance | No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours |
Activity may be canceled if minimum not met | Participants receive full refund | Changes less than 24 hours not accepted |
Additional Information
Aside from the minimum number of travelers required, there are a few other important details to consider for this kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto.
The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted. Service animals are allowed as well. It’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible.
However, the experience isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or anyone with serious medical conditions, as the physical nature of kendo may pose risks for these groups. Most travelers will be able to participate, but those with certain physical limitations should exercise caution.
The organizers aim to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Skilled Do I Need to Be to Participate in the Experience?
The experience is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners. No prior kendo or samurai knowledge is required, as the instructors will provide the necessary training and equipment to ensure an enjoyable and safe session.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activity?
The activity has no age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for young children or the elderly. Participants should be in good physical health and able to move comfortably. The experience is suitable for most adult travelers.
Can I Take Photographs or Videos During the Experience?
Yes, participants can take photographs and videos during the experience. However, they should avoid disrupting the activity and respect any guidelines provided by the instructors. Photography and filming may be restricted in certain areas for safety reasons.
Are There Any Special Requirements for Participants?
To participate, participants must be able to walk for 15 minutes and avoid strenuous physical activity. The experience isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
What Is the Attire for the Experience Besides the Provided Uniform?
Participants should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. The activity provider will supply the necessary kendo uniform and equipment for the experience.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Osaka or Kyoto Private Day Tour With English Driver Free Pickup
- Historical Kyoto Customizable Tour With English Speaking Guide
- Kyoto Full Day Private Tour
- Western Kyoto Walking Tour With Local Guide
- Shamisen Discovery in Kyoto
- Discover Kyoto by Bike: Authentic Half Day Tour
- From Kyoto: Nara Private Car Tour With Hotel Pickup
- Kyoto: Half-Day Guided Bike Tour With Fushimi Inari
- Top Notch Walking Tour of Historic Kyoto Gion District
- Photography Service
- One Day Private Tour in Kyoto and Nara From Osaka
- Kyoto: Private Customizable Highlight Tour
- Kyoto: Kimono Rental and Guided Tour With Local Guide
- Kyoto Higashiyama Slow Cycling Tour Along the Quiet Waterfront
- Kyoto: Nijo Castle, Sanzenin Temple, and Kibune Day Tour
Recap
Enjoy the rich traditions of Japanese martial arts with this unique kendo experience in Kyoto.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll don the full kendo uniform and wield the bamboo shinai sword, learning authentic techniques and gaining a glimpse into the way of the samurai.
This private tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, allowing you to fully learn about the ancient art of kendo.