Learn to be a Samurai with an Iaido master

Summary

In this program, you will learn the basic techniques of iaido, the closest remaining martial art to ancient samurai swordmanship. To begin, you will be fitted into the conventional iaido ensemble and taught the fundamental steps to mugairyu-style iado. Mugairyu-style iaido has existed since the late seventeenth century and is a peaceful form of sword-work that focuses on enriching your soul and training your mental and physical strength. After training, your instructor will teach you the art of tameshigiri cutting. This exercise uses tatami mats made of straw to demonstrate your sword skills without the fear of hurting an opponent. It has been practiced since the early seventeenth century as a mean of testing the quality of Japanese swords and is an excellent way to blow off steam! During training, you will have the opportunity to experience a real life samurai-style sword from the fifteenth century and learn all about the history of the martial art from your instructors.The coaches will also perform a professional iaido performance, so you can see what years of iaido training culminates in.

Tour info

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Become a samurai warrior in this authentic iado swordmanship workshop in Tokyo. Learn the history and fundamental steps to mugairyu-style iado, a peaceful martial art based off the sword-skills of Japan's most famous warriors. Then try your new-found skills out for yourself in our tameshigiri cutting exercise, a 400-year old practice using straw tatami mats to demonstrate your sword-skills. Afterwards be dazzled by a professional demonstration by the iado instructors and discover ancient weapons used in Japan's Sengoku Warring States period (14th-17th century).

What’s included?

  • Nationally-licensed guide

  • Use of Iaido Equipment (sword, hakama & haori costume, etc)

  • Professional Iaido Instructor

  • Hotel pick-up (within 10 minutes of the Yamanote Line)

  • Transportation fee to location

  • Drop-off service

  • Food and drinks

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 2h 30m

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

True Japan Tours

About operator:

We are a Japan-based travel company who specialize in providing the very best of bilingual tour guides. As of 2019, we now have our state-of-the-art Grand TJT experiences room, where guests can experience everything from sushi making to tea ceremony - all only 1 minute's walk from Tokyo Tower! Join us & experience the "true" heart of Japan!

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