Tokyo Samurai Experience: Try Cutting with a Real Japanese Sword

5.0 (18 reviews) Tokyo, Japan
Duration1h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 10 travelers

Overview

Try cutting a rolled tatami mat with a real, sharp Japanese sword (katana), guided by a master at an authentic Japanese swordsmanship training hall (dojo) in Tokyo.

Feel the sword’s weight, focus on your target, and attempt your own cut under the master’s supervision. Discover how technique, rather than brute strength, helps the blade pass through the mat.

Change into traditional training attire and learn grip, stance, and sword movement before your cutting attempt. Experience the precision and control of Japanese swordsmanship, with the traditions of iaido providing context.

After your practice, watch the master’s demonstration up close with a new appreciation of his skill. Receive a certificate of completion as a souvenir.

Select the real-sword cutting option to try cutting the tatami mat. Participants must be 18 or older, sign a waiver, and follow the master’s instructions. The experience without real-sword cutting is available for ages 5 and above.

Options

Use of an imitation sword
Cutting a man-shaped cardboard with an imitation sword
Private: Cutting a rolled tatami mat with a real sword
Use of a real sword

What's included

  • Certificate of completion
  • Samurai attire and sword in the photos

What to expect

Experience the thrill of cutting a rolled tatami mat with a real, sharp Japanese sword, guided by a master at an authentic Tokyo dojo.

The highlight is tameshigiri—test cutting with a live blade. Feel the sword’s weight, focus on your target, and put your technique to the test as you attempt your own cut under the master’s supervision.

Change into traditional training attire and learn the fundamentals of grip, stance, and sword movement before your cutting attempt. Discover how precision and control shape Japanese swordsmanship, with the traditions of iaido providing context for what you experience firsthand.

After your own practice, watch the master’s demonstration up close with a new appreciation of his skill. Finish with a certificate of completion to remember your experience.

Select the real-sword cutting option to take part in tameshigiri. Participants must be 18 or older, sign a waiver, and follow the master’s instructions. A non-cutting option is available for ages 5 and above.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The meeting point is Exit A4 of Toei Asakusa Line Kuramae station (A17). Please step outside when you reach Exit A4. Your guide will be holding a sign reading, Arumachi. Toei Oedo Line has a station carrying the same name, Kuramae. You should get on Toei Asakusa Line but NOT on Toei Oedo Line

End point

The meeting point is Exit A4 of Toei Asakusa Line Kuramae station (A17). Please step outside when you reach Exit A4. Your guide will be holding a sign reading, Arumachi. Toei Oedo Line has a station carrying the same name, Kuramae. You should get on Toei Asakusa Line but NOT on Toei Oedo Line

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (18)
From
30,000.00 JPY per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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