Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
Try cutting a rolled tatami mat with a real, sharp Japanese sword (katana), guided by a master at an authentic Japanese swordsmanship training hall (dojo) in Tokyo.
Feel the sword’s weight, focus on your target, and attempt your own cut under the master’s supervision. Discover how technique, rather than brute strength, helps the blade pass through the mat.
Change into traditional training attire and learn grip, stance, and sword movement before your cutting attempt. Experience the precision and control of Japanese swordsmanship, with the traditions of iaido providing context.
After your practice, watch the master’s demonstration up close with a new appreciation of his skill. Receive a certificate of completion as a souvenir.
Select the real-sword cutting option to try cutting the tatami mat. Participants must be 18 or older, sign a waiver, and follow the master’s instructions. The experience without real-sword cutting is available for ages 5 and above.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The meeting point is Exit A4 of Toei Asakusa Line Kuramae station (A17). Please step outside when you reach Exit A4. Your guide will be holding a sign reading, Arumachi. Toei Oedo Line has a station carrying the same name, Kuramae. You should get on Toei Asakusa Line but NOT on Toei Oedo Line
What to expect
The highlight is tameshigiri—test cutting with a live blade. Feel the sword’s weight, focus on your target, and put your technique to the test as you attempt your own cut under the master’s supervision.
Change into traditional training attire and learn the fundamentals of grip, stance, and sword movement before your cutting attempt. Discover how precision and control shape Japanese swordsmanship, with the traditions of iaido providing context for what you experience firsthand.
After your own practice, watch the master’s demonstration up close with a new appreciation of his skill. Finish with a certificate of completion to remember your experience.
Select the real-sword cutting option to take part in tameshigiri. Participants must be 18 or older, sign a waiver, and follow the master’s instructions. A non-cutting option is available for ages 5 and above.
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Get our app
