Samurai Experience in Tokyo: Cut a Real Target with a Live Blade
Under a licensed instructor, you learn the etiquette, stances and draws of iaido and battodo, then cut a real target with a live, sharpened Japanese sword. This is a genuine martial art, not entertainment.
- Location
- Tokyo
- Price
- ¥20,000 (per person)
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Languages
- English, Japanese
- Group size
- Private, up to 6 guests
In a traditional Tokyo dojo, you learn the etiquette, stances, and draws of iaido and battodo. Then, under the instructor's close guidance, you cut a real target with a live, sharpened blade. Discipline first, then the cut.
- Train with a licensed swordsmanship instructor
- Cut a real target with a live Japanese sword
- Private dojo session, up to six guests
A licensed swordsmanship instructor
Years of training in iaido and battodo, and the discipline of drawing, cutting, and returning the blade.
You learn beside an instructor for whom the sword is a lifetime's practice: the etiquette, the stillness, and finally the cut itself.
A first-hand account of the experience: learning the fundamentals, then cutting tatami with a real katana under close guidance. Read it before you book.
More detailsThe Experience
The times shown are a sample. Your session runs about 90 minutes, and the exact flow varies with the group.
- 01
14:00
Etiquette and the blade
You begin with the etiquette of the dojo: how to bow, step onto the floor, and receive a sword. Then you learn to hold, draw, and sheathe a real blade safely, so the rest of the session feels natural.
- 02
14:30
Form and footwork
You practise the core of iaido and battodo: the stances, the draw, the cut, and returning the blade. The instructor corrects your posture, grip, and footwork one movement at a time.
- 03
15:30
The cut
You face a rolled tatami target and make the cut yourself with a live, sharpened katana, guided closely by the instructor. Most guests are surprised that a clean cut takes technique, not force.
Location & Access
Booking & Practical Details
- Price
- ¥20,000 (per person)
- Meeting time
- Please arrive a few minutes before the start time.
- Participants
- From 1, up to 6
The nearest station is Tanashi Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line in Tokyo. From there, guests take a taxi to the dojo. The exact address is shared once your booking is confirmed.
- Bring a change of clothes if you like.
- The uniform and all equipment are provided.
Cancellation the day before the experience is charged at 50% of the fee. Cancellation on the day of the experience, or a no-show, is charged at 100% of the fee.
- Participants must be junior-high-school age or older. Elementary-school-age children and younger cannot take part.
- Because a real, live sharpened blade is handled, this is not offered as entertainment or a novelty. It is a genuine experience of battodo as a martial art (budo). Please understand this before you book.
- For groups larger than 6, please contact us in advance.
- Sessions are led in English by Kamiide-san, a licensed instructor.
- No prior experience is needed. You are guided from the fundamentals, from etiquette to the cut.
Before You Book
- English interpreter
- All equipment and practice wear
- Target for your cut
- Transportation to the dojo
Is it safe for complete beginners?
Yes. Safety and etiquette come first, and the master controls every step of the cut.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes you can move in. Practice wear is provided at the dojo.
Ready to experience this yourself?
Plan your visitTrusted by Japan Culture Enthusiasts
It was a Zen-like immersive experience that taught us not only the technique but also the why: the feelings involved, and our connection to the craft. I was deeply moved that the smith remembered us.
S.SIt deepened my appreciation for Japanese culture: its elegance, harmony, and the way tradition is carried with such respect and authenticity.
H.YThe dojo session was a profound cultural exchange. From the first bow to the final cut, I felt the true spirit and warmth of Japanese swordsmanship.
M.JA dream experience! Our teacher was wonderful, kind, and so much fun to learn from. I am so grateful for this authentic and joyful workshop with my family.
I.KOur maker was incredibly warm, ensuring we truly enjoyed learning the history behind every layer of wax. A private class made it even more special.
M.YNot sure where to begin?
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