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Offered languages
- English
Around Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan's most important Buddhist centers, the temple approaches have seen samurai, monks, pilgrims and townspeople pass through for centuries. The dojo where this experience takes place sits in a traditional Japanese house in this historic area, offering an authentic setting that connects samurai practice with the everyday life of a regional temple city.
Samurai valued matcha not only for its health benefits but also for the brief moment of reflection it provided. After intense training or between conflicts, preparing and drinking tea offered a structured pause: a way to calm the spirit, center the mind, and return to composure. This simple act balanced the warrior's outward discipline with inner stillness.
The matcha moment itself is simple and unscripted. This brief pause lets you experience how samurai used tea in daily life: not as performance or ritual, but as a moment to settle the mind and restore calm.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Your guide will meet you in front of the Niomon Gate (Zenkoji Temple) and lead you to the activity location.
What to expect
Both martial discipline and matcha became important parts of samurai culture. In Nagano, around the historic streets leading to Zenkoji Temple, you can step into that world: train with a samurai sensei in his traditional dojo, then share a bowl of matcha prepared in the simple, home-style manner samurai would have enjoyed after rigorous practice.
During this experience, learn the basics of samurai training with a local instructor. You will change into appropriate period clothing, learn how to handle a sword safely, and practice fundamental movements, posture, and etiquette that reflect samurai discipline. The focus is on body control, concentration, and respect for the teacher and the training space rather than combat.
After the physical training, your sensei prepares matcha. This transition from active practice to quiet reflection mirrors how samurai would have used tea: not as elaborate ceremony, but as a practical way to calm the mind and body after exertion. The contrast between the two activities reveals the balance samurai sought between outward discipline and inner composure.
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- 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.
- The matcha served after training is a simple, informal tea break rather than a formal tea ceremony.
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- 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.
- The matcha served after training is a simple, informal tea break rather than a formal tea ceremony.
- There is no minimum age requirements
- Children less than 6 years old can participate for free (kid’s outfits and foam swords are included at no additional fees)
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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