SAMURAI & NINJA SESSIONS IN OSAKA · Japan
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 10 samurai & ninja sessions in Osaka that earn their slot, each with a price, a traveller verdict and the one thing to know before committing.
Train Kendo in Osaka in a real samurai dojo, suit up in armor, learn basics with a shinai, spar safely, and get photo and video souvenirs.
“Very fun experience, got taught a lot about kendo generally not just the combat aspect, the husband and wife team running this activity are humorous and informative, if you are unsure book immediately it is well worth the money.”
Osaka Night Fusion blends taiko, kabuki, and samurai with dance music in an interactive show at Tempo Harbor Theater, from $40.
“Amazing show! Deserve a lot more views! Super highly recommended, had. A lot of fun!!”
Train in full Kendo armor in an Osaka dojo, learn Reiho and basic strikes, spar safely, then get dojo photos with Samurai props.
“I truly enjoyed this activity. Staff taught us about history of samurai and kendo. And we competed with other guests!!! It was also fun 🤩 If there is anyone who wants to experience Japanese culture, I highly recommend this experience!!!!”
Private samurai sword training in Minoh, Osaka with Tatsuya Watanabe, temple access, and a special sword performance.
“It was a great and very authentic experience. Watanabe San is very passionate about his craft and explains it very well in the short amount of time we have. It’s a cultural experience as much as it’s about the swordsmanship. Highly recommended for anyone who is looking for things off the beaten path and wants to learn more about Japan, its culture and history!”
Osaka’s 2-hour Kendo workshop at Shigino Kaikan teaches etiquette, safe strikes, and a match-style mini-game with rental gear.
“Une expérience INCROYABLE !! Nous avons adorés avec mon petit frère (22 ans et 18ans) ! Le professionnel est super, à l’écoute, et nous apprend plusieurs techniques !! C’était waaaaaw !! Merciii beaucoup”
Try kimono, calligraphy, tea, and a samurai sword trial near Osaka Castle, finished with an armor photo. 3 hours, English staff, $168.
“The staff were all pleasant and didn’t rush to answer various questions that I had. They were patient with me during each part learning the techniques of caligraphy and technique for using a katana. Would highly recommend to other. 10 out of 10 service.”
Walk Osaka Castle’s samurai and shogun sites on a 3-hour English-led tour with Nishinomaru Garden, Miraiza Osaka-jo, and Hideyoshi shrine.
“Our guide was very knowledgeable and nice to talk to. He provided a lot of historical and cultural insight to the stories he told us. He helped to make our first trip to Osaka memorable. BTW, we went on the tour early in the morning. It turned out to be a great decision.”
Samurai Honor near Osaka Castle: dress in armor, learn sword manners, try iai basics, cut with a real blade, then get a commemorative photo.
“I book it once and was cancelled the next day because of overbooking. It can happen so I booked it angain few days later after they updated their schedule. I received a message the morning we were supposed to go to cancel for overbooking again... Not very serious, a waste of time and big disappointment as we were excited to participate to this activity with a friend”
Train with ninja weapons in Dotonbori, Osaka. Costume, instruction, and photo ops indoors, small group, about 1 to 2 hours.
“We have learned a lot about ninja weapons (shuriken, blow gun), ninja secret room, climbing rope, and even comparing the difference between the samurai and the ninja sword.”
Shodo in a kimono, your name in kanji, plus oversized samurai calligraphy and photos at Samurai Honor in Osaka.
“The venue is dumpy & trains are rattling by outside the door. Terrible location. But the instructor was nice & we enjoyed trying calligraphy.”
Pick the kind of day first. The tour comes second.
