Tokyo Asakusa : Samurai School, Become a Samurai Warrior

If you’re visiting Tokyo and want a break from the usual temples and skyscrapers, trying out a Samurai School in Asakusa offers a unique, hands-on glimpse into Japan’s warrior past. This activity is particularly appealing for those who love history, action, or just want an authentic cultural souvenir. While it’s a short experience, it packs a punch with swordplay, dressing up, and some serious photo opportunities.

What makes this experience stand out is the chance to learn from a samurai master with 25 years of experience, trained directly with the choreographer of “Kill Bill.” You’ll also get to dress in traditional attire, strike some seriously stylized poses, and even participate in a choreographed sword fight—all within a friendly, relaxed environment. The only potential downside? Sessions are temporarily held at a different dojo due to renovations, so location details could be a consideration.

This activity best suits travelers curious about Japanese traditions, fans of martial arts, or those seeking a fun, interactive break from sightseeing. It’s a good fit for anyone comfortable with wearing costumes and engaging in light physical activity—note that pregnant women or people with back problems should consider their suitability. Overall, it offers a genuine taste of samurai culture in a welcoming setting.

Good To Know

• Authentic Learning: Led by a samurai master with decades of experience, including direct training with a famous choreographer.
• Cultural Engagement: Dress in traditional samurai costumes and perform stylized movements.
• Photo & Video: Capture memorable moments with professional photos and videos, plus a certificate of achievement.
• Hands-On Swordplay: Practice fundamental stances, strikes, and even participate in choreographed battles.
• Location: Near Tokyo Skytree, with easy access from Shimo Station.
• Value for Money: At $94, this offers a rich, culturally immersive experience that’s both fun and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Samurai School Experience

The Setting and Location

The tour takes place at a dojo located near Tokyo Skytree, a well-known landmark, making it convenient to combine with other sightseeing. Currently, due to maintenance at the original dojo, sessions are held at a different location, which is clearly communicated and easy to find via walking from Shimo Station on the Namboku Line. Meeting in front of the dojo offers a straightforward start to your adventure.

The Guide and Instruction

A major highlight here is the expertise of the instructor—a professional with 25 years of experience in samurai action, who has trained directly with the choreographer of “Kill Bill”. This means you’re learning from someone with serious credentials, capable of imparting authentic techniques and insights into traditional swordsmanship.

Guests have mentioned the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the learning process accessible and fun. One reviewer, Nicole, noted how her son enjoyed learning the choreography and dressing up, emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere and the professionalism of the staff.

What You’ll Do Step-by-Step

The experience starts with putting on samurai attire, which transforms you into an instant warrior. This costume isn’t just for fun—it immerses you in the tradition and helps you feel the role of a samurai.

Next, you’ll receive an introduction to samurai culture—learning how to bow, draw your sword, and execute stylized movements. The instructor will guide you through fundamental stances and strikes, ensuring you understand both the technique and the etiquette, such as showing respect to your opponent.

Following this, you’ll select a practice sword from a variety of options. Under the watchful eye of your expert guide, you’ll try your hand at stabbing, slicing, and performing dynamic movements, all geared to mimic real samurai combat, but in a safe environment.

Many participants, including those in reviews, found this part to be surprisingly engaging and accessible. Shane, in his review, called it “very interesting to learn poses and moves,” especially the aspect of acting and camera work, which indicates how dynamic and photogenic the movements are.

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The Choreographed Battle

For those wanting a bit of excitement, the instructor will showcase some swordsmanship demonstrations, and you can participate in a choreographed fight. This isn’t a real battle—it’s a safe, stylized performance designed to be both fun and respectful of the art form. Guests have appreciated this as a highlight, as it allows them to test their skills in a controlled, immersive setting.

Dressing Up and Photos

One of the best parts is the photo session. After practicing, you’ll don a traditional samurai costume, complete with armor and accessories. Guests have found this to be a fun highlight—especially kids, who love dressing up as warriors. The staff offers a professional photo shoot, allowing you to capture memorable shots in your costume, which can be a fantastic souvenir.

Participants also receive a completion certificate, which adds a sense of achievement and makes for an excellent keepsake or gift.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The price of $94 per person covers all the essentials: costumes, practice swords, an English-speaking interpreter, a photo shoot, and a certificate. You won’t need to worry about bringing your own gear, and the friendly staff will guide you every step of the way.

However, extras like private transportation, snacks, and meals aren’t included, so plan to eat before or after the session. Also, check that you bring a towel, water, and a T-shirt—these small details can make your experience more comfortable.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Timing & Duration: The experience lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, making it easy to slot into a busy day of sightseeing.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing underneath your costume if you want to change easily afterward. A T-shirt and water are recommended.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with back problems due to the physical nature of sword practice.
• Reservations: Book in advance to secure your spot and benefit from flexible payment options—pay later if needed.

The Experience’s Value

While $94 might seem like a modest investment, it’s actually quite reasonable considering the personalized instruction, authentic costumes, and professional photos. Compared to just visiting a typical souvenir shop, this offers a deep dive into Japanese culture that you’ll remember long after leaving Tokyo.

Insights from Past Visitors

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Chakil noted the welcoming atmosphere and kindness of the staff, emphasizing how quickly guests feel at ease. Shane appreciated not just the learning but also the acting and camera work, highlighting how the experience can be as much about fun as tradition.

Nicole, who brought her son, especially loved the opportunity to dress up and learn choreography. She also appreciated the clear communication even when plans changed unexpectedly, which speaks volumes about the professionalism behind the scenes.

Who Should Do This Experience?

This tour is ideal for culture enthusiasts, families with children, and fans of martial arts or Japanese history. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a hands-on activity that combines education, fun, and a bit of theatrical flair.

While it’s accessible for most, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider their physical comfort beforehand. It’s also a great activity for those who love photography—both for capturing the moment and for taking home a unique costume photo.

The Sum Up

This Tokyo Samurai School experience offers an engaging, authentic look into Japan’s iconic warrior culture. Led by a highly experienced instructor, you’ll learn practical sword techniques, dress in traditional costumes, and create lasting memories through photos and a certificate. The activity’s mix of education, performance, and fun makes it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary for those wanting a personal, immersive experience.

Its moderate price point provides good value given the quality of instruction and the souvenir photos. It’s an excellent pick for history buffs, families, or anyone eager to try something different during their Tokyo stay.

If you’re after a practical, memorable, and culturally rich activity that’s more than just sightseeing, this samurai session is a definite contender.

FAQ

Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, especially for kids who enjoy dressing up and trying new activities. Many reviews mention children having a great time learning the choreography and taking photos.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes underneath the provided costume are recommended. Bring a T-shirt, water, and a towel for comfort.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Japanese?
Absolutely. The experience includes a friendly English-speaking interpreter, making it accessible for international visitors.

How long does the session last?
Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, which fits well into most travel schedules.

Is this activity physically demanding?
It involves some light physical activity—drawing swords and performing stylized moves—so comfortable clothing and a moderate level of mobility are ideal.

What is included in the price?
You get costumes, practice swords, a professional photo shoot, an English-speaking guide, and a completion certificate.

Can I take home the photos?
Yes, the photos are part of the package, and you’ll receive them after the session, perfect for sharing or keepsakes.

Is this activity available all year?
While the data doesn’t specify seasonal variations, the activity is unlikely to be seasonal but check for any recent updates or weather considerations.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead ensures a spot, especially during busy travel times. You can reserve and pay later.

What if I have physical limitations?
This activity is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems. Please consider your comfort and health before booking.

This detailed overview should help you decide whether to step into samurai shoes during your trip to Tokyo. It’s a chance to connect with Japanese tradition in a fun, memorable, and genuinely authentic way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby