The samurai, Japan’s legendary warrior class, upheld a strict code of discipline, honor, and martial skill for centuries. While the samurai era officially ended with the Meiji Restoration in 1868, their teachings and traditions live on through traditional samurai schools, where ancient techniques and philosophies continue to be preserved.
These schools, known as ryu (martial arts traditions), provide a rare opportunity to step into the world of the samurai, whether through sword training, archery, or immersive historical experiences. This guide explores some of the best places in Japan where you can experience authentic samurai training and learn about their enduring legacy.
The Legacy of Samurai Training Schools
Samurai training schools, or koryu bujutsu (classical martial arts traditions), date back to feudal Japan. These institutions trained warriors in various disciplines, including kenjutsu (swordsmanship), kyujutsu (archery), sojutsu (spear fighting), and iaijutsu (quick-draw sword techniques). Unlike modern martial arts, which focus on competition, samurai training emphasizes practical battlefield skills and philosophy, particularly the Bushido code of honor and discipline.
Today, several traditional schools continue to teach these ancient techniques, preserving the samurai spirit for future generations.
Katori Shinto Ryu (Chiba) – The Oldest Samurai School
Location: Chiba Prefecture
Best for: Traditional samurai weapon training
Founded in 1447, Katori Shinto Ryu is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious martial arts schools, recognized as an Important Intangible Cultural Asset by the Japanese government. This school has trained samurai for over five centuries, passing down techniques in kenjutsu (swordsmanship), naginatajutsu (polearm fighting), sojutsu (spear techniques), and even battlefield strategy.
What to Expect:
- Observation of highly disciplined training sessions
- Instruction in sword techniques, spear combat, and archery
- Lessons in samurai etiquette and strategy
- A glimpse into one of Japan’s most historically significant martial arts traditions
This school is best suited for martial arts enthusiasts and history lovers looking to experience authentic samurai training.
Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu Dojo (Tokyo) – Samurai Training for Beginners
Location: Tokyo
Best for: Hands-on samurai training for beginners
For those who want a practical introduction to samurai martial arts, this dojo in Tokyo offers accessible training based on the Katori Shinto Ryu tradition. It provides short-term and long-term lessons in swordsmanship, archery, and battlefield tactics, making it ideal for travelers looking for an immersive experience.
What to Expect:
- Hands-on experience in wielding a katana (samurai sword)
- Basic kenjutsu (sword fighting) and iaijutsu (quick-draw techniques)
- Instruction in samurai stances, movements, and etiquette
- Safe practice with wooden training swords
This dojo is perfect for beginners and travelers looking for a structured introduction to samurai combat.
Hyoho Niten Ichi Ryu (Kumamoto) – The School of Miyamoto Musashi
Location: Kumamoto Prefecture
Best for: Learning the dual-sword technique of Japan’s greatest swordsman
Miyamoto Musashi, Japan’s most famous samurai and undefeated duelist, founded Hyoho Niten Ichi Ryu, a school that teaches his unique two-sword technique (Niten Ichi-ryu). Today, this school continues to train students in his legendary fighting style.
What to Expect:
- Lessons in the two-sword technique, where a samurai wields both a long and short sword
- Insights into Musashi’s philosophy, as written in The Book of Five Rings
- Observing and practicing traditional samurai movements and footwork
Ideal for those interested in the techniques of one of Japan’s most famous samurai warriors.
Samurai Kenbu Theater (Kyoto) – A Cultural Samurai Performance and Training
Location: Kyoto
Best for: An interactive introduction to samurai arts
Samurai Kenbu is a traditional Japanese performance art that blends swordplay, poetry, and samurai philosophy. At the Samurai Kenbu Theater in Kyoto, visitors can watch performances and participate in short samurai training sessions.
What to Expect:
- Live performances showcasing samurai sword techniques and movements
- Hands-on training sessions in basic katana handling
- Dressing in traditional samurai attire for an immersive experience
- Learning about Bushido, the samurai code of honor
This experience is perfect for tourists, cultural enthusiasts, and those wanting a theatrical introduction to samurai traditions.
Kyoto Butokuden – A Samurai Training Hall in a Historic Setting
Location: Kyoto
Best for: Experiencing kendo and traditional samurai techniques
The Kyoto Butokuden is one of the most important martial arts halls in Japan, originally built in 1895. It serves as a center for training in kendo (modern Japanese sword fighting), iaido (quick-draw sword techniques), and naginata (polearm combat).
What to Expect:
- Observation of kendo matches and traditional sword training
- Training sessions in samurai sword stances and footwork
- An authentic dojo experience in a historic setting
Best for those interested in the evolution of samurai swordsmanship into modern martial arts.
Samurai Experience at Matsumoto Castle (Nagano) – Historical Samurai Training
Location: Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture
Best for: Practicing samurai skills in a historic castle setting
Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s best-preserved samurai castles, offers visitors the chance to train in traditional samurai arts while surrounded by authentic history. The samurai experience here includes lessons in sword techniques, archery, and samurai etiquette.
What to Expect:
- Hands-on training in samurai sword fighting and archery
- Wearing authentic samurai armor for a full immersion
- Exploring one of Japan’s oldest and most beautiful castles
This is ideal for history buffs and those looking for a cultural experience in a historic setting.
Conclusion
Japan’s traditional samurai schools offer more than just martial arts training—they provide a glimpse into the values, discipline, and legacy of the samurai warriors. Whether you choose to study Miyamoto Musashi’s legendary techniques in Kumamoto, learn katana skills in Kyoto, or observe centuries-old traditions in Chiba, these experiences allow you to connect with Japan’s rich samurai heritage.
For travelers interested in history, martial arts, or cultural immersion, these samurai schools and experiences offer a unique and unforgettable journey into the world of Japan’s legendary warriors.
