This was one of the highlights of our trip. From start to finish, we were impressed by how everything was handled. After booking, we emailed with translator and guide Vicky who was extremely kind and took great care to inform and advice on everything we needed to have a good experience. Following her instructions, it was easier than expected to find the event building. Well inside the air-conditioned training space, instructor and owner Toshihiko greeted us warmly. We learned some of the history surrounding the sport, and took a great deal of commemorable photos. We then got introduced to quite a large number of movements including different greetings, before having the opportunity to test our newfound knowledge against each other as well as Toshihiko. Toshihiko was very kind and encouraging and made sure we stayed safe and hydrated during the training. We wore several pieces of protective equipment, so the training is very safe – of course as long as your partner follows the rules and isn’t deliberately trying to hurt you. When the event was finished, we were offered a selection of snacks and a drink before leaving which I thought was a really caring final touch. If you’re looking for something special and active to do, I highly recommend booking. It is a great way to try kendo and experience both historical and modern Japan hands-on. Because of the format and since Toshihiko has multiple tournament titles and also works as a private kendo instructor, the experience felt very authentic.

We had a great time in the Samurai Training Experience! The hosts Toshi and Vicky are super nice and positive. You get to learn a bit about the history of Samurai and practise some basic techniques and types of attack and defense. You also get to test fighting each other and even the instructor (Toshi) who is very experienced and very fast :). They also take a lot of photos during the whole session, which is an extra bonus! Highly recommended, definately one of the highlights of our trip and fun for both adults and children.

I had a great experience. Everyone was extremely helpful and kind.

Great experience with the family. I was not sure what to expect but the experience far exceeded my expectations. The instructors were great and encouraging. They provided a good history. I definitely recommend!