Chiyoda City in 1 Day for Friends - Traditional dojo training in Kojimachi (former Edo Castle inner grounds)
In Collaboration with 一般社団法人国際護身武道連盟. Updated on February 22, 2026.
Two-hour, beginner-friendly samurai training in a traditional dojo in Kojimachi (Chiyoda City). Conducted in English. Learn samurai etiquette and Bushido, practice breathing and meditation, train wooden-sword and heavy-stick techniques, perform one-on-one sparring, enjoy matcha and wagashi, then receive a personalized scroll-style certificate and a commemorative photo. Minimum 2 participants; max
This itinerary was created in collaboration with 一般社団法人国際護身武道連盟, inspired by the tour Samurai Training in Tokyo: Swords, Bushido & Mental Discipline. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Traditional dojo training in Kojimachi (former Edo Castle inner grounds)
- Beginner-friendly lessons on Bushido, breathing, meditation, and posture
- Wooden sword drills, heavy stick conditioning, and one-on-one sparring
- Matcha green tea and traditional Japanese sweets during a short break
- Personalized scroll-style certificate and commemorative photo
Itinerary
Day 1
Full 2-hour samurai training session in Kojimachi, Chiyoda City
Arrival, check-in & samurai etiquette briefing
Meet at the dojo entrance, change into provided samurai attire, and receive an introduction to dojo etiquette and the philosophy of Bushido.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start to check in and change into the provided uniform; the session begins promptly.
- Kojimachi Station is the nearest subway access — plan to use it for the shortest walk to the dojo entrance.
- Remove shoes before entering the mat area and secure loose jewelry; the dojo provides a quiet changing space.
Breathing, seated meditation & posture work
Guided breathing exercises and short seated meditation to calm the mind, followed by posture and stance training essential to sword work.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear lightweight, stretchable clothing underneath the rental uniform to sit comfortably during meditation.
- If you have respiratory issues, notify the instructor before breathing exercises begin so they can offer modifications.
- There is a restroom in the building — use it before the active drills to avoid interruption.
Fundamental wooden-sword drills & heavy-stick conditioning
Learn core kata and basic cutting/thrusting mechanics with a bokken (wooden sword), plus strength-building exercises using a heavy practice stick.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep fingernails short and avoid loose accessories; instructors will ask you to remove anything that can catch on the weapon.
- If you have shoulder or back conditions, tell the instructor — lighter practice sticks or modified drills are available.
- Bring a small towel and wear breathable layers — the conditioning work raises body temperature quickly in a small space.
Practical combat techniques and one-on-one sparring
Progress to practical sword techniques taught by the instructor and apply them in supervised one-on-one sparring drills to practice timing and distance.
Tips from local experts:
- This segment is active and involves close contact; let the instructor know of any injuries or medical issues before sparring begins.
- Follow the instructor's safety signals and maintain controlled power — sparring is educational, not full-force combat.
- If you're new to physical contact training, ask for step-by-step guidance; instructors teach safe progression for beginners.
Matcha tea and traditional sweets break
A short, quiet break to enjoy authentic matcha green tea and wagashi (Japanese sweets) in the dojo's cultural setting while reflecting on the training.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have food allergies, notify the guide before the session — the sweets served are traditional but staff can advise on ingredients.
- Use this break to rehydrate with your own bottled water (not provided) — the activity excludes bottled water.
- Keep the break calm and respectful — this is a cultural moment in the dojo; photos are fine but avoid loud group chatter.
Certificate presentation, commemorative photo & debrief
Receive a personalized scroll-style certificate listing the techniques learned, take a commemorative photo with your instructor (in samurai attire), and finish with a short debrief.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your full name available as you want it to appear on the certificate; staff will confirm spelling during the debrief.
- If you'd like a group photo, ask the instructor or staff to take it — they routinely assist with smartphone photos.
- Allow a few minutes after the session for changing back into your street clothes and collecting personal items before leaving the building.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Culture, Sport, Meal |
