Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo: Embark on a Samurai Sword Training Journey for Unforgettable Insights
In this fifth part of our series on "Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences" in Shinjuku, Tokyo, we introduce Samurai Sword Training. Here’s an overview of what you can gain from this unique experience.
As of November 2, 2024, our tours have received an impressive average rating of 4.96 out of 5 (equivalent to 99.3 out of 100). This high level of satisfaction reflects the “something special” that participants feel they gain from our tours. We believe that this “something special” can be summed up as “happiness,” as expressed in the smiles and comments of participants in our Users’ Voices. Here’s a summary of what each tour offers to bring that sense of happiness to you.
No.5 Samurai Sword Training
What You Will Gain from This Tour
Learn Mugairyu Iaido, widely regarded as Japan’s most powerful sword style, directly from a master with the 9th-dan (9th-grade) rank—the highest ranking in the art.
Learn about the history of Japanese martial arts and the etiquette of bushido (the samurai code).
Fully immerse yourself in the samurai experience with a complimentary rental of a traditional training uniform.
Do You Know the Authentic Samurai Training? : The Difference Between Staged Shows and Real Dojo Practice
In Japan, there are many "samurai experiences" offered to tourists. However, most are simply staged shows tailored for tourists, and only a few are what we consider "authentic" samurai experiences. Here, “authentic” refers to training in a real dojo.
In a dojo, people gather daily to practice swordsmanship, and this training often continues for many years, even decades. Only after years of dedication does one attain a Dan (grade), with the higher Dans requiring even more decades of practice. The highest rank is 10th Dan, and those who achieve it are recognized not only for their skill but also for their integrity and excellence as teachers. To date, only five individuals in history have been awarded the 10th Dan in kendo (Japanese fencing).
Experience Authentic Samurai Training: Learn from a 9th-Dan Master at Musashinokuni Mugaikai Dojo
At the Musashinokuni Mugaikai dojo, Sudo Sensei, a 9th-Dan master, personally instructs visitors. Usually, only members may train at the dojo, but Sudo Sensei makes an exception to instruct foreign visitors in this special arrangement.
Watching Sudo Sensei and other ranked practitioners perform is awe-inspiring—their presence and speed with the sword are overwhelming. This is the biggest difference between the typical tourist samurai shows and an authentic samurai experience under the guidance of a master in a dojo.
At the dojo, you will also learn about samurai history and proper etiquette. Wouldn’t you like to experience something this unique? It would be a shame to come all the way to Japan and only experience tourist-oriented samurai shows. In the heart of Tokyo, in Ochiai, Shinjuku, you can participate in a "real" samurai experience, one that will undoubtedly become a cherished memory!
Enhance Your Samurai Experience: Explore Zen Meditation, Kumihimo Braiding, and Tea Ceremony for a Complete Samurai Journey
For a deeper understanding of the samurai spirit, we recommend combining this samurai experience with our other tours, such as Zen meditation, Kumihimo braiding, and the tea ceremony. These practices were part of the spiritual training of samurai during the Edo period. Please consider trying them together for a more complete understanding of samurai culture.
Tour Details
Tour Duration: 1 hour
Location: Musashinokuni Mugaikai. The nearest stations are Nakai Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line and Ochiai Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.
Price: 45,000 yen for a private group of up to 5 people. For groups of 6 or more, please inquire.
Age Requirement: Ages 10 and above
Booking Period: Reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance.
Accessibility: Due to steps in the dojo, wheelchairs and strollers are not allowed.
Meeting Point: The meeting location will be decided upon consultation with the customer. Hotel pickup is also available for an additional fee.
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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