Experience Kendo in Kyoto
This authentic Kendo experience in Kyoto offers a rare chance to step into the world of Bushido — the “Way of the Samurai” — through hands-on training in Japan’s traditional martial art of the sword. Guided by master instructor Tomoyoshi, you begin with an inspiring lecture on Samurai history before donning full Kendo armor and learning the fundamental movements yourself. The session ends with a friendly match and a beautifully designed Certificate of Experience to take home.
- 120 mins
- 1+ Participants
- Kyoto
- Intermediate
★★★★★
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From
Price on request
Per Person
- Full Kendo armor and all equipment provided
- Lecture on Samurai history and Bushido values
- Hands-on training in basic Kendo movements
- A friendly Kendo match to finish the session
- A beautifully designed Certificate of Experience
Kendo Experience in Kyoto: Learn the Way of the Samurai
To begin with, this Kendo experience in Kyoto is led by Tomoyoshi, a skilled and knowledgeable instructor who traces his own family’s connection to Samurai swordsmanship across generations. First of all, he shares the story of how Bushido values shaped Japanese history, including his great-grandfather Yoshishige Hayashi and his family’s experiences through the turbulent years of the Second World War. As a result, the lecture becomes far more than history — it is a personal story of redemption, peace, and pacifism.
After that, the experience moves from words to action. Moreover, you will put on full Kendo armor and learn the fundamental movements of the art under careful guidance. Meanwhile, Tomoyoshi teaches everything in English and warmly welcomes questions and photography throughout. Therefore, even complete beginners can take part with confidence and curiosity.
Finally, the session builds toward a friendly Kendo match between participants, followed by a beautifully designed Certificate of Experience. Above all, this is a safe yet genuinely exciting activity, assisted by Tomoyoshi’s wife Tomoko, who supports ladies and children whenever needed. As a result, families and adventurous travelers alike leave with a memory that lasts.
What to Expect from Your Kendo Experience in Kyoto
What to Expect
Samurai History Lecture
Begin with the story of Bushido and Tomoyoshi's family.
Full Kendo Armor
Suit up in real Kendo gear, all provided for you.
Basic Movements
Learn the fundamental strikes and footwork of Kendo.
A Friendly Match
Test your new skills in a safe practice bout.
Certificate of Experience
Take home a beautifully designed keepsake.
Why Choose This Experience
Authentic Master Instructor
Train with a teacher rooted in Samurai heritage.
Taught in English
Clear instruction and warm Q&A throughout the session.
Family Friendly
Tomoko assists ladies and children every step of the way.
Sacred Dojo Setting
Practice inside a revered Kyoto martial arts hall.
Photos Welcome
Capture the moment freely throughout your experience.
Know Before You Go: Your Kendo Experience in Kyoto Details
Know Before You Go
- Arrival time: Please arrive at the venue 30 minutes before the start (e.g. arrive by 1:30 PM for a 2:00 PM session).
- Difficulty: Intermediate; a respectful, hands-on martial arts session. Minimum age is 6.
- Dojo etiquette: The dojo is a sacred martial arts center, so please act in a respectful manner.
- Venue note: Due to summer heat and humidity, the location (Former Budoku hall) may change to an air-conditioned dojo.
- Spectators: Watching while friends or family participate is possible — please contact us in advance.
- Booking in advance: Reservations must be made at least 3 days ahead (cut-off: 3 days).
Cancellation Policy
- 1 day before: We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if the booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event.
- 7 days before: We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if cancelled 7 days or less before the event.
- 8 days before: We will charge a cancellation fee of 20% if cancelled 8 days or less before the event.
- Booking on request: This experience is booked on request; We will respond within 3 days.
- Tentative availability: All bookings are tentative until one month before the start date, when the venue schedule is finalized.
Meeting Point
Kyoto Budo Center (Butokuden)
〒606-8321 36 Okazaki Higashifukunokawacho
Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
Special Mention: You can start this experience at the Kyoto Budo Center, located near Heian-jingu Shrine in the Sakyo ward of eastern Kyoto. Please note that, due to summer heat and humidity, the session may be moved from the Former Budoku hall to a nearby air-conditioned dojo for your comfort — any change will be confirmed in advance. The center is most easily reached via the Kyoto Municipal Subway to Higashiyama Station, followed by a short walk. For full route and timetable information, see the Kyoto City Subway Route Guide.
