Discover the Way of the Samurai in Nagano City !

Step into the world of the samurai with a unique evening session in Nagano City. As dusk settles and the bustle of the day fades, the temple district grows calm and takes on a more atmospheric character. This experience is not a visit to the temple grounds but it offers a glimpse into the discipline and traditions of the warriors who once shaped Japan’s history. Guided by a skilled instructor, you will take part in a sword training lesson in a quiet setting, creating an encounter with samurai culture that is both authentic and memorable.

Dress in Samurai Attire and Select Your Sword

Your introduction to samurai training begins in a private dojo where you will meet your instructor and prepare for the session. You will change into traditional attire, selecting a style and color you prefer, before stepping into the calm practice space. Once ready, you will choose a katana-style practice sword from several options and begin learning the first steps of this centuries-old martial art.

Although armor is often associated with samurai, it was mainly worn in battle. For training, they relied on lighter garments such as kimono that allowed freedom of movement. You will experience this approach by wearing traditional clothing designed for comfort and agility. After preparing your outfit and sword, your instructor will guide you through the foundations of samurai practice, making history and technique come alive.

Samurai Katana Training Workshop

Under the guidance of your sensei, you will begin practicing the fundamentals of samurai swordsmanship. The lesson starts with an introduction to the katana, including its parts, cultural meaning, and the way it was historically used. You will then learn the proper techniques for drawing and sheathing the sword. Each step is explained in detail so you can build confidence while understanding the discipline required in traditional training.

After the basics, the session continues with practice movements that simulate attack forms. For safety, all swords used in the workshop are training models, lighter than real katana and designed for easy handling. Participants who want a more authentic impression can also try a non-sharpened replica that matches the weight of a traditional sword, providing a clearer sense of what samurai experienced in their practice.

An Insider Experience into Samurai History, Lifestyle and Modern Nagano

The session is interactive, allowing you to ask questions about samurai life, history, and philosophy as you train. Photography and short video clips are welcome throughout, making it easy to preserve your samurai experience and share it later. The lesson is designed for all ages and is suitable for families, individuals, or small groups seeking something distinctive to do in Nagano.

Once your training ends, step outside and take a short walk to Zenkoji Temple. After dark, the temple’s wooden halls and surrounding pathways are softly lit, creating a tranquil and almost meditative atmosphere. While the temple interior is closed in the evening, the outer approach is open and ideal for a calm stroll after your session. It is a fitting way to conclude your introduction to samurai culture.

Additional Information

Meeting Location: Niomon Gate, Zenkoji Temple Area. Your samurai master will pick you up and bring you to his dojo.

Group Type: Group Tour (Private Tour Option available)

Important information:

• Please note that the stairs leading to the samurai experience venue are short, but steep and narrow. If you have any accessibility needs, kindly inform us in advance.
• In Japan, authentic katanas are classified as illegal weapons under strict licensing laws. Tourists can see them in museums or specialty shops, but theatrical swords are widely used in performances, training, and during our samurai experience.
• This activity focuses on proper sword techniques and kata accessible to all including families. It does not involve any type of slicing or cutting of objects.
• This tour does not include a tour inside or outside of the temple

The tour itinerary includes the following visits:

• Samurai Outfit Dress up / 5 minutes
• Katana Sword Selection & Introduction to its use / 5 minutes
• Samurai Sword Fighting Class / 45 minutes
• Photos, Questions and Recommendations / 5 minutes

Please note that the above times are estimates and that the experience may end earlier or later.

Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start date in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.

Terms & Conditions: Please see our Terms & Conditions