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What happens
- You put on full kendo armor and equipment.
- You practice strikes with a bamboo sword and try fighting under the instructor's guidance.
- Groups are limited to six people.
- The session runs about two hours; the page notes it can run a little longer or shorter.
Samurai kendo practice experience
★ 4.8 · 118 reviews on GetYourGuide
Put on full kendo armor and strike with a bamboo sword under an instructor. Small groups of up to six.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Reserve now, pay later
- Armor and equipment rental included
Check these before you book
- Fit: the armor may not fit unusually large builds. The booking page says a full refund is offered if the instructor has to cancel for that reason.
- Glasses: they are not advised under the head armor.
- Location: the dojo is 10–12 minutes from JR Uguisudani Station.
Kendo or a sword lesson?
Kendo is about striking an opponent in armor with a bamboo sword. A sword lesson is about handling and drawing a katana, without contact. If you want photos in samurai armor with a katana, pick a sword lesson.
Samurai sword lesson and museum tour in Asakusa
★ 4.8 · 566 reviews on GetYourGuide
The easy option in a sightseeing area. You wear a hakama, learn to handle a katana with a blunt practice blade, then try on armor for photos on a guided museum tour.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Reserve now, pay later
- Hakama, armor and photos included
Quick answers
Can tourists try kendo in Tokyo?
Yes. A two-hour session with an instructor, armor and equipment rental is listed from $113 per person, in English and Japanese.
Do I need experience to try kendo?
No. The session is an introduction led by an instructor, and equipment is provided.
Can I wear glasses for kendo?
Glasses are not advised under the kendo head armor, according to the booking page.
Disclosure. This site is independent and not affiliated with any dojo, museum or tour operator. Some links on this site are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Ratings and review counts are those shown on GetYourGuide on November 13, 2026. Always confirm prices, age limits and rules on the booking page.