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A person in a red shirt aiming an arrow at a target. 1
A person holding a bow with a feathered arrow, wearing gloves, and a black jacket. 2
A person in a black shirt holding a white object with a gold emblem, indoors with wooden beams and a window in the background. 3
A person in a red shirt aiming a bow at paper targets with eye patterns. 4
A person in traditional attire holding a pair of scissors. 5
By Welcome Matsumoto
Free cancellation available
Price is ¥14,900 per adult

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 2h 30m
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

    • Practice with the hankyu, a traditional half-bow used for close-range training. Your instructor will demonstrate the technique clearly, then guide you step by step as you draw and shoot under close supervision. As your confidence grows, you’ll have the chance to try different types of shoot. This makes the practice more engaging and helps you notice how small changes affect your shot.

    • Learn how to stand with balance, move your feet without losing stability, and hold the katana so the blade stays controlled and aligned. You’ll practice drawing and returning the sword calmly, then work through basic cuts and finishing positions with an emphasis on accuracy and follow-through. As you progress, those single techniques connect into short sequences, so you can feel how timing and body mechanics work together.

    Your English-speaking instructor teaches in a clear, supportive way, adjusting the pace to your experience level.

Activity location

  • Niōmon Gate, Zenkōji Temple
    • 491 Motoyoshichō
    • 380-0851, Nagano, Nagano, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Niōmon Gate, Zenkōji Temple
    • 491 Motoyoshichō
    • 380-0851, Nagano, Nagano, Japan

Check availability

Samurai Archery and Sword Experience in Nagano

  • Activity duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes2h 30m
    2h 30m
  • English
Language options: English
Price details
¥14,900 x 2 Adults¥29,800
Total
Price is ¥29,800
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What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Entry/Admission – Katana Experience Activity
  • Inclusions
    Entry/Admission – Hankyu Experience Activity
  • Inclusions
    English-Speaking Guide
  • Inclusions
    Samurai outfits rental during the activity
  • Exclusions
    Miscellaneous fees during the activity (meals, snacks, souvenirs, etc.)

Know before you book

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • 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.
    • 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)

Activity itinerary

Long before the samurai became synonymous with the sword, archery sat at the heart of warrior life. In Japan’s early medieval era, elite fighters trained to shoot from horseback, relying on the bow for range and the blade when distance closed or conditions demanded it. This experience brings those two skills together in a hands-on session designed for beginners and curious travelers. You will train with a sword under expert guidance, then try traditional Japanese archery using the hankyū, a compact half-bow style that emphasizes posture, breathing, and calm focus. - Learn the fundamentals of samurai sword and archery techniques - Wear a samurai kimono and accoutrements for an authentic experience - Get step-by-step coaching from your instructor - A traditional setting, guided in English - Enjoy a friendly accuracy challenge to test your new skills

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Niōmon Gate, Zenkōji Temple
    • 491 Motoyoshichō
    • 380-0851, Nagano, Nagano, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Niōmon Gate, Zenkōji Temple
    • 491 Motoyoshichō
    • 380-0851, Nagano, Nagano, Japan

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