Tokyo:samurai Sword & Archery With A Master Swordsman

I’m incredibly grateful to Sensei Sumida and his team for this amazing experience! I’m a huge fan of swords and martial arts, so I was excited to be there, and honestly, I loved every minute of it. Everything was genuinely interesting to me. We started with a short lecture, learned about the different parts of a katana and how to disassemble it and then moved on to practical training. We practiced drawing and sheathing the sword, learned proper cutting techniques, got to cut real targets, did some sparring, and even tried shooting a traditional Japanese longbow! What I appreciated most was how authentic the experience felt. This isn’t just a tourist trap where you pose with a sword for photos. It feels like a real training session. Sensei Sumida is an excellent teacher. He explains everything clearly, pays attention to your technique, and knows how to make you laugh. The training can be physically challenging, but the atmosphere is incredibly warm and welcoming. His team is just as wonderful - friendly, helpful, and genuinely pleasant to be around. I enjoyed every moment and would absolutely recommend this experience, especially to anyone who shares my passion for martial arts. Thank you again, Sensei Sumida and team!

One of our favourite experiences so far in Japan. Was a nothing like the tourist traps in the Center of the city. This is a proper class by a highly experienced master swordsman and horseback archer. Highly recommended.

Sumida-sensei was very friendly and very knowledgeable about his craft. But he also takes safety seriously. He gives individual attention to each student to make sure your technique is correct. His sharing on the history of Japanese swordsmanship was also very detailed and informative. Coming from a HEMA background, I truly appreciated learning the art of Japanese swordsmanship from Sumida-sensei.

This was one of our best activities in Tokyo. Not only did we learn a tremendous amount in a short time, but the hands-on experience was engaging and really made you appreciate the skills of an expert.

The terrific instructor for this course leads you through a true and exciting experience that demonstrates many different aspects of training: -History -Swordmanship -Sparring -Archery The experience is unique, genuine, and genuine, and while traditional, he always makes sure there is time for some pictures. He was very entertaining and informative, and was cooperative and patient with those that struggled with certain things a bit. He is very knowledgeable of his craft, and knows exactly what information you need to address any problems and succeed with the task at hand.

I want to thank mister Sumida for an amazing experience at his dojo. He was such a great Sensei and I liked the way how he taught us. I hope I could see him again to thank him for this great experience. Thank you mister Sumida!

It was an incredible experience! We learned actual swordsmanship, got to spare, learn samurai archery and cut some foam with the sword. The whole family enjoyed it!

What a once in a lifetime experience. Sumida sensei is extremely good at Kenjutsu, and he will teach you a lot in a little over 2 hours. This was the highlight of my trip, and it is a great start for those who are interested in starting their mastery of the samurai martial arts, which you can do back home at another dojo once you get the certification at the end of his class. Do yourself a favor, book this class and avoid the tourist trap, this is a genuine martial arts class taught by a professional who’s seen it all.

I spent much of my youth in a dojo and was so happy to introduce my family to that world in a playful, yet serious way. We all loved it and the entire family, including my teenage children had a blast. The training consisted of basics in dojo etiquette, sword handling and archery. Plenty of practical exercises, including shooting at targets and slashing with real, metal (but fortunately blunt) swords. Thank you, Sumida sensei and Harry sensei for the fabulous morning and the unforgettable insights!

Our class was a memorable experience. With a true Samurai Master, Yoshiokin Sumida teaching we were treated to a level of expertise seldom available to the novice. We received great value for the price and were very pleased with the entire experience.

This was the highlight of our trip to Japan. Master Sumida put in a lot of thought and effort in providing such an authentic samurai experience. This is not a tourist trap. He took the time to teach us about the history of the samurai, the types of blades and how to disassemble and reassemble a sword. The traditional outfits really made us feel immersed in the Japanese culture. Master Sumida was very patient, funny and explained everything clearly. Learning how to wield a sword and use a bow and arrow was captivating. I highly recommend this experience! The dojo is a bit outside Tokyo but it was well worth the commute.

I spent many years of my youth in a dojo and I always wanted to give my family a glimpse of that world. The course was perfect for that. It was much more a training session than a tourist attraction, but it still catered warmly for the entirely uninitiated. My teenage kids, my wife and myself, we had a blast altogether. Sumida-sensei and one of his principal students, Harry-sensei, led various exercises and guided the group through sword exercises, cutting tests with practice swords, archery and target challenges. The entire family was very glad to have done it and everyone was proud of what was achieved in such few hours. Thank you, Sumida sensei and Harry sensei for this rewarding experience! One of my daughters is actively looking to join a dojo now...

I had a great experience with Sumida-sensei. He was meticulous and passionate in his teaching and was kind and supportive throughout. If you go into it with a mature mindset and the intention to learn I believe you will find it quite rewarding. There were six people in my group, and I had the fortune of having everyone be punctual and arriving ahead of the planned start time. This meant we could start and end earlier, which personally helped me as I had other plans afterwards.

The instructor, Sumida-san, was incredibly patient and encouraging. His dedication to his craft and pride in the samurai traditions was inspiring. This was certainly the highlight of our holiday for my 17-year old son. Highly recommended.

The time spent with a true master of the art of samurai was unbelievable. This is not a tourist trap, this is real. You will sweat, you will be challenged and you will learn. I took my daughter here for her birthday and she loved it just as much as me. If you want a true authentic experience in Japan with a samurai master, this is the place to go.

Great experience. Exactly as advertised, well organized, and friendly. My boys and I talked non stop after the class about how much we liked it. If there’s one thing we wish would be different, it would be to make it longer. If we lived here, we would definitely take regular classes.

We recently did the Samurai class and it was truly an experience. Sensei was very informative, kind, and obviously a master of his craft. My boys and husband thoroughly enjoyed it, it will be a trip highlight for sure! Bonus that Machida was very easy to get to from Shinjuku- it is a very cute area, we enjoyed shopping afterwards and had a great lunch!

An absolutely incredible experience from start to finish. The Sensei was deeply knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely inspiring — you can truly feel his love for sharing the teachings and spirit of the samurai tradition. The archery training was such a highlight: fun, energizing, authentic, and very safely guided. Nothing felt touristy — just immersive, meaningful, and unforgettable. One of our favorite experiences in Japan. Highly recommend🖤

This was easily one of the highlights of my entire Japan trip. The samurai sword and archery class felt authentic, physical, educational, and genuinely unforgettable. Sensei was incredible — patient, professional, welcoming, and clearly a true master of his craft. You can tell immediately that this is not some watered-down tourist show; it is a real hands-on introduction to swordsmanship, archery, discipline, and samurai tradition. The class had the perfect balance of history, instruction, movement, and actual practice. Learning the sword techniques, understanding the purpose behind the movements, practicing archery, and being guided step by step made the whole experience feel very immersive. Sensei made everyone feel safe and comfortable while still keeping the training serious and meaningful. I also loved that it was taught by someone with a real connection to the samurai tradition. That gave the experience a level of depth that you do not get from ordinary tourist activities. Other reviews call it “legit,” “immersive,” “welcoming,” “patient,” and a “highlight of the trip,” and I completely agree. If you are interested in Japanese history, martial arts, swordsmanship, or just want to do something in Tokyo that you will actually remember, book this. I would 100% recommend it and would honestly do it again.

Not all experiences are equal. I looked at several samurai classes before I arrived at this one and I was not disappointed. This class, as he expressed, is not entertainment. This class is for someone who is actually interested in learning the ways of the samurai in conduct, sword and bow. The sensei was incredible and this class and the memory from it will last me a lifetime. If you’re not sure which one to choose, trust me….. it’s this one. Just remember to arrive early or you risk disrupting the class!

This was absolutely the best and richest experience I had during my trip. i enjoyed and LOVED every single second of the experience!! As Master Sumida says, this is not just a tourist trap. Through this experience, he taught us the basics of the arts that make up the figure of a samurai through REAL training that will definitely make you sweat a little, but it is absolutely worth it. He is not handing out souvenirs: he is passing down an art. Master Sumida guided us through well-structured, fun, and engaging training sessions, making us truly experience what it feels like to train like a samurai. He was always very clear in his explanations and, even though my English is not perfect, I was able to understand everything without any problems. He was also very funny and made the whole experience even more enjoyable with jokes and many interesting insights. If you are planning a trip to Japan, you ABSOLUTELY have to try this experience. It is 100% worth it!!

Easily the highlight of my trip to Japan, amazing class with experienced and kind instructors teaching real techniques. No flashy unrealistic gimmicks. If you want a genuine sword and how experience this is the best place to learn.

This was by far the highlight of my trip and we did a lot of cool things but this was hands down the best! It’s not just another tourist attraction but real samurai training and the Sensei is not only a decent of a samurai but an actual master in the art ( forgive me if I have the official title wrong as I do not remember but he is one of the top in his field ). In all honesty it felt like a deep honor to be able to learn from him. Im grateful he chooses to spend his time and wants to spend it sharing his art form and culture with tourists. By the end you’ll know how to do basic sword wielding and you get to actually cut things with your sword techniques! You’ll feel super cool! The archery is also amazing and not to be slept on as you get to use one of the huge traditional bows! The Sensei is so kind, patient and welcoming he makes it all feel approachable! If you only do one excursion make it this one you will not regret it!

This experience was a special one. Since I was a child, the Samurai have fascinated me. Sumida Sensei showed us what part of being one was all about. There is a lot of movement and sword work in this experience, so be prepared and dress accordingly. They provide you with amazing Samurai Kimonos, so you can feel what the Samurai do. After learning sword work, we shot the horseback bow and arrow. It was incredible. Then, we returned to apt what we learned to do our cuts. It was thrilling, challenging, and educating, along with being my favorite experience of our 2 week long trip to Japan! Arigatougozaimasu, Sumida Sensei!

My husband and I took the samurai and archery class and it was sugoi!!! (If you don't know Japanese that means amazing). We got there early, and make sure that you do. In Japanese culture punctuality is very important and a great way to show respect. Both Mr. Sumida and his assistant were so kind and even if you don't know a lot of Japanese you will understand the class. We got there early and were able to watch Mr. Sumida warm up. His warmups were so impressive! Highly recommend going early so you can see this. My husband has studied martial arts and so this wasn't his first experience with the art of Bushido but it was my first experience. First we learned about the kimono. Mr. Sumida and his assistant helped us get dressed in the proper attire. Once we were dressed we were given blunt katanas (a real one is far too dangerous for beginners and tourists to learn with). He taught us the art of just taking the katana out of the scabbard. Then we learned how to slash the katana and if you do it correctly you can actually hear the sound of the sword slicing the air. Then we learned how to carefully and correctly put the katana back in the scabbard. He allowed us some time to take pictures since learned some basics. Then we put the katanas away and he gave us foam katanas and we got to practice sparring with each other in a rotation, so each student got to fight him. He tailored his sparring match to each student to really challenge them at their level which I appreciated since sparring wasn't my forte but it definitely was my husband's. For me he worked on my confidence because I was nervous and he encouraged me to come forward towards my opponent (him) and not to be afraid. For my husband, who was more confident than me, he didn't hold back and they really went at it with each other, which allowed my husband to have a sparring partner who created a fun and challenging fight. After we all fought we put the katanas down and we learned about the art of the bow and arrow. We sat on the floor and he explained the history of Bushido. He took his katana out and completely dismantled it to show us exactly how a katana is made, culturally why it was made, and why the materials used were selected and so important. I loved this part of the class because it's so important as a tourist to understand the culture and history of what we are partaking in to be able to represent it with the utmost respect. After we learned about the katana he showed us videos of Yabusame (archery on horseback). Mr. Sumida is known for Yabusame and being a master swordsman. The videos were amazing to see! We each got turns shooting a bow and arrow towards a target (the tips of the arrows were blunt for safety). At the end of this lesson he offered a challenge, if anyone could knock off a water bottle from the pedestal two times (with only three shots) you would win a handkerchief with his family crest and the name of his organization. I actually won this! While my forte wasn't the katana, I loved the bow and arrow. After this lesson we went back to the katana and this time we got to slice into foam as if the foam was an opponent. It was so cool to see the progression in just one class! My husband and I were both able to slice through the foam exactly on the line he hand drawn in the foam. When we all accomplished the lesson, he hand wrote out certificates for us with our names in kanji. We had a ceremony where he gifted us our certificates. This was such a special moment. Overall, we highly recommend this experience!! Whether you are new to the art of Bushido or an experienced martial artist this class has it all and is taught by Mr. Sumida, a decedent of an ancestral Samurai family from the Okayama prefecture, famous for its Japanese swords 'Katana'! Arigato gozaimasu!

What a wonderful experience for my daughter and me. We signed up for the “Samurai Experience – Art and Soul of the Sword,” and from the very beginning, everything was smooth and enjoyable thanks to our interpreter, Yosh a licensed English-speaking guide interpreter. We met Yosh at Kuramae Station, and he kindly guided us to the dojo. His English was excellent, and he translated all of Master Hogyoku Takeda’s instructions clearly, which helped us fully understand and appreciate the experience. Yosh was also very thoughtful in taking photos and videos of our actions, which made the experience even more memorable for us. At the end, he kindly escorted us back to the train station on our way home. Yosh was professional, helpful, and friendly throughout. We are very grateful for his support and highly recommend him to anyone wanting a smooth and meaningful samurai experience.

I travel solo all way from Los Angeles, California, and this was one of my favorite experiences of my entire trip. This is my first time traveling across the country alone, so I wasn't intimidated, but I felt so welcome, have lots of fun, and emerged in Japanese culture. I recommend this to anyone who is interested in learning more about Japanese weapons, archery, or just wanna try something new. I learned so much, it had so much fun, and what I love most of that it was not a tourist attraction.

A rewarding and comprehensive experience covering many different facets of the training and character of samurai! Sumida sensei is a very knowledgeable and patient teacher as well!

I had a fantastic time. The teacher was both patient, attentive and extremely funny. He made the hours I spent there whiz by and actually made me curious about taking up the practice myself.

This was my favorite experience during my two-week trip to Japan. Learning about the history and culture of the samurai was fascinating, and actually getting the chance to practice using the sword made the experience even more memorable. It was an incredible, hands-on introduction to a truly iconic part of Japanese tradition. After the session, the owner even took the time to help me choose my own katana at the shop located below the dojo, which made the whole experience feel even more special.

This is an excellent experience for anyone interested in learning about swordsmanship and archery. You will get to wear traditional attire, learn the basics of how to use a katana, as well as practice with it. The second part of the experience deals with learning about (and practicing with) a Japanese bow. The sensei (teacher) is a master of his trade and is polite, patient, knowledgeable, and professional.

Very informative and involved training from one who's experience is evident with all their movements. I came during Winter and was fortunate enough to get a 1-on-1 private instruction. Sensei was extremely thorough with instructions and demonstrations ensuring a perfect understanding of the how and why behind all movements, as well as emphasizing safety. Highlight of my Japan trip and I would return just to train with him again.

The lesson took part in four sections, with the teacher being very informative and encouraging throughout every step. He made sure that we understood everything he showed us and that we were being as safe as possible as to prevent any accidents. If I ever come back to Japan, I will make sure to do this lesson again because it was so interesting and entertaining.

I went with two friends and we attended the class when visiting Tokyo. It was a marvelous experience and we all had a great time learning how to handle katanas and cutting blocks of foam with precision. We also shot arrows and competed against each other for prizes. Our instructor was awesome and a real interesting person. I would highly recommend this class if you have the time. Also, if you arrive before 9:30 you can watch the instructor and his assistant go through their daily training regiment cutting bamboo mats. This was really fun to watch.

A great experience from experts who are serious but humble and fun to be around. Get there early to see the instructors daily training exercises - a highlight not to be missed.

This was a fantastic authentic experience for our family. The host was very engaging. We loved learning the history of samurai, how the swords are made and practicing the art of using a samurai. We also learnt about Japanese archery and practiced hitting targets in the studio. We were all provided with traditional training wear which made for great photos. It was a memorable experience.

I doubt there is a better samurai experience in Tokyo. This is as genuine an experience that you'll find. Highly recommend!

I've never been to Japan before. So I wanted to learn and get a feel for the history of Japans infamous Samurai and their way of life. This experience provided an amazing and unforgettable insight albeit just a snippet of Samurai life with a sword aka Katana. Our instructor, Sumida San and his assistant (apologies. I forgot your name) were truly excellent, easy going, easy introductions to the martial arts made the whole experience both fun and educational. The practice with the Katana the cutting of the blocks, the sparring with the firm but soft spongy katana and the Kyudo/archery all made this into a truly amazing memorable experience. I traveled from Shinjuku by train to the dojo which was easy to find as Google maps links are provided and an easy 15min stroll or less to the dojo from Machida station, plenty of shops and places to eat in the area too. I would definitely recommend this experience and should I ever get back to Japan I would certainly do this again. It has actually made me want to try find somewhere local to try and take it up and practice more.

I have been doing martial arts for years and this was an incredibly authentic experience with a true master and follower of Bushido. Sumido sensei and his assistant are so welcoming and share their knowledge freely. The class involves far more practical experience than I anticipated and it dosen’t matter what level you are - you will feel safe and encouraged to learn. The experience teaches a lot about Japanese culture also. Thank you so much for a wonderful insight into the Samurai.

The entire experience was amazing. Sumida-sensei was patient, thorough, captivating, interesting, and he added moments of fun and witty humor. From handling the katana, to sparring, to archery, while also learning about the entire construction of the sword and his history as a samurai descendant, made for fascinating learning. From beginning to end, it was an amazing experience and training that was a highlight of our trip.

One of the most genuine experiences I had in Japan that felt wholesome, fun and challenging. This isn't like a typical tourist gimmick. Sumida sensei goes out of his way to help you understand the history, culture and mechanics of the samurais and their weapons. He makes a challenging concept fun and helps you push yourself by creating a safe and fun environment. The only thing I feel sad about is the fact that I can't stay and learn from him and Harry.

Just an amazing authentic experience altogether. Clearly not a tourist trap. Highly recommend for anyone interested in the history of Samurai, or for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Japanese swordsmanship. The dojo master was kind and clearly knowledgeable, and the class was engaging and intriguing throughout. DO NOT miss this experience on your next trip to Japan!

This was a really cool experience for my son and his friend. They learnt how to properly use a katana and to fire a bow, as well as spar (with foam kendo swords).

I have visited Japan many times, but this class stands out as one of my most memorable experiences. In the 2.5-hour session, you are introduced to the fundamentals of authentic samurai practice, using a real sword and a real bow. Sumida-san is highly professional and serious about the art. The class is small and ideal for visitors who genuinely want to learn the samurai tradition, not just observe it.

So glad I added this to my final day of travel. Probably the best experience I had in three weeks in Japan. Workshop takes you through so many things in just a few hours, including blade construction, combat styles, opportunity to practice strikes and apply on real targets, sparring and seated archery. Senseis supported all students with humour and good clear instruction, in both Japanese and English. Will be recommending this to anyone staying in the wider Tokyo area, it’s worth the trip to Machida - I travelled from Disneyland hotel in just 1.5hrs, it’s easy to access by train.

We absolutely loved this experience! From the moment we stepped into the dojo, everything felt authentic and welcoming. The instructor, Yoshioki Sumida, is incredibly skilled, funny, and passionate, and he explains everything with such clarity that you can’t help but be fully immersed. We learned about Japanese swords and practiced. The archery part was also a highlight, it was amazing to try this weapon! What makes this class stand out is how authentic it feels. It’s not a staged show or a performance; it’s real training, guided with patience and precision. Watching the live demonstration was also absolutely breathtaking! Both my partner and I left the dojo with huge smiles, a deeper respect for samurai culture, and memories we’ll keep forever. If you’re in Tokyo and want a truly unique and meaningful experience, this is one you shouldn’t miss! Thank you to Yoshioki Sumida and to the co-instructor for this amazing experience!

This was one of the best things we have done in Japan. I was travelling with friends: we visited shrines, hiked, did tea ceremonies and different experiences. This is by far one of the best things since it was truly authentic and not something just geared to get tourists through the door. Sumida makes sure people know this is actual training: you learn some useful skills and important history. At the same time it's a lot of fun to practice with the swords, spar, shoot the bow, and partake in the cutting attempt. This was definitely worth doing and I would do it again if visiting Japan.

The class was really interesting and actual. Thank to Sumida-san for this great experience. You can be sure that you will enjoy.

The lesson was phenomenal, they really went into the detail and history about Japanese style swords and bows to give us an understanding of the history. We were really able to get hands on with the bow and Katana and experience what it is like to shoot/swing one. They were always helpful in answering questions any of us had. We really felt like samurai with the clothes they provided for the lesson and we all thoroughly enjoyed it, the lesson was far beyond what we were expecting and worth every Yen