Step into the world of the samurai and train under a master in both swordsmanship and traditional Japanese horseback archery. This is the only experience in Japan where you can receive instruction from a certified expert in these ancient arts inside a real dojo—not a tourist attraction, but a cultural and historical immersion.
Highlights
- Train with a practice sword during a formal Iai (sword-drawing) lesson
- Experience authentic Japanese horseback archery using a traditional bow
- Wear proper training attire provided by the dojo to fully engage in the practice
- Receive an official certificate of completion (Inkajo) as a mark of your achievement
- Learn from one of the few true masters in Japan who teaches both sword and archery arts
- Witness live demonstrations of advanced techniques, including Toyama-ryu 7th grade forms
Full Description
Join an authentic samurai training session in Tokyo and explore the profound traditions of Japanese martial arts. This class, held in a real dojo, is led by a certified master of both swordsmanship and horseback archery—an extremely rare combination.
The experience begins with a short orientation and changing into traditional training wear, which will be provided. Please ensure you provide your height and weight in advance for proper fitting.
You will start with a lecture on the evolution of samurai weaponry, from the bow used over a thousand years ago, to the matchlock gun of the Sengoku era, and finally the katana that defined the peaceful Edo period.
What You’ll Experience:
- Iai Lesson: Learn the correct way to draw and handle a mock sword with precision and discipline.
- Gekken Lesson: Practice sparring techniques, including attack and defense timing, using a practice sword.
- Blade Line Activity: Test your control and accuracy with mock cutting exercises.
- Archery Session: Try shooting with a real horseback archery bow, used by samurai over 1,000 years ago.
- Historical Demonstrations: Observe the sensei perform high-level Toyama-ryu sword forms, showcasing the elegance and control of the samurai arts.
This experience is not a performance or tourist show. It is a structured class designed for those who wish to gain genuine insight into the discipline, spirit, and skills of the samurai. By the end, each participant will receive a formal certificate of completion—Inkajo—recognizing your accomplishment.
Pricing
From ¥30,000 per person
Includes
- Training with a qualified master
- Full samurai experience (sword and archery)
- Use of training uniform and equipment
- Practice sword and bow
- Inkajo completion certificate
Meeting Point
Toyama-ryu Bizen-kai (戸山流備前会 BIZENKAI)
Located on the third floor of the Toyama-ryu Honbu Dojo.
It’s a 10-minute walk from JR Machida Station.
Enter the building using the stairs located between the sword shop and vending machines.
Address:
3 Chome−14−14 Haramachida, Machida, Tokyo 194-0013, Japan
Reviews
“Great experience! So grateful to have been part of this. The master taught with endless patience, and everyone in the group felt honored. Be punctual—changing takes time, and you won’t want to miss a second!”
“Sumida-sensei was fantastic. His lectures were informative and his teaching style was fun and clear. The sword training was a highlight, and while the archery could use a bit more explanation, the session was an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend!”
“Absolutely wonderful lesson! My nephew was thrilled to train with a true master. Every moment was engaging and educational. Strongly recommended!”
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