Kyoto is always ranked among the top tourist destinations in Japan. As an elegant ancient capital city with numerous World Heritage sites, temples, shrines, and historical cultural assets, it is a place where you can strongly feel the essence of Japan.
Kyoto has long flourished as the capital of Japan. Various aspects of Japanese culture, from daily life to the arts, have blossomed in Kyoto.
The history of Kyoto is the history of Japan, and the abundance of facilities that convey this history in an enjoyable way, as well as cultural experience tours, are part of the appeal of visiting Kyoto.
This time, we will introduce facilities where you can experience the world of ninja and samurai, who have supported the history of Japan. You can see and learn from valuable historical materials, and even transform into a ninja or samurai at the end!
I will guide you to the unique ways to enjoy Kyoto.
If your are looking for Comprehensive Kyoto Guide, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy different areas of Kyoto as much as possible.
Takashi Nakadomari
What were the "Ninja" and "Samurai" that once existed in Japan?
Ninja and samurai are featured not only in Japanese movies, anime, and games, but also in Hollywood films. They were active before the 1600s, serving nobles and fighting on the frontlines of wars.
While the samurai were the main force, the ninja were the shadow warriors who carried out missions. Both were skilled in wielding swords and other weapons, as well as in strategic warfare, creating many stories with their high combat abilities.
In the latter half of the 1600s, after Japan's political organization underwent a fundamental restructuring, they effectively disappeared.
However, the definite traces they left in shaping Japan's history remain. That is why they are still chosen as subjects for entertainment works and are loved worldwide.
Recently, the American-produced drama "SHOGUN" has been nominated for many Emmy Awards in the US, attracting attention.
Why are there many ninja and samurai experience facilities in Kyoto?
Kyoto, which has flourished as the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years and has been the core of Japanese culture, has a sense of pride and resolve in preserving and passing on its history and traditions.
Kyoto is also highly capable of transmitting information both domestically and internationally, and is an active city in the development of Japanese culture. The abundance of ninja and samurai experience facilities in Kyoto is due to the local mindset of "wanting people to learn more about Japanese history and culture through these experiences".
In addition to visiting the historical buildings that still remain, please be sure to visit the experience facilities introduced later. Learning about the roles and lifestyles of the ninjas and samurai of the time and experiencing them from a different angle can be a valuable addition to your understanding of Japanese history.
The "SAMURAI and NINJA MUSEUM" is a must-visit place!
Source: Official website
The "SAMURAI and NINJA MUSEUM" is an experiential museum that has a large collection of historical exhibits related to ninjas and samurai. The collection of samurai armor, helmets (yoroi kabuto), real Japanese swords, and a variety of weapons are a must-see, even for collectors and martial artists.
The museum also offers guided tours that provide detailed explanations of each exhibit, as well as quizzes on ninjas and samurai, allowing both adults and children to learn in an enjoyable way.
Highly recommended are the programs where you can become a ninja or samurai. You can enjoy a dramatic performance while actually touching the ninja's weapons and shuriken (throwing stars) or the samurai's swords! Embark on an adventure to the unknown world!
3 Highlights of the SAMURAI and NINJA MUSEUM
Learn about the unique samurai and ninja culture of Japan through magnificent exhibits
Source:Official website
As soon as you enter, you will be overwhelmed by the impressive display of various armor (kacchu) designs.
Kacchu refers to the traditional protective armor and combat uniforms worn by the samurai before the 1600s. They are precious relics that tell the story of Japanese history, and it is rare to see such a large collection gathered in one place.
While these would normally be strictly preserved in glass cases in a typical museum, here you can get up close and personal, even touching them. You can closely admire the intricate details of their craftsmanship.
The designs of the armor varied depending on the military unit and social status. The materials and construction also evolved over time, so it's fun to compare each one.
Not only exhibits, but you can also experience being a ninja or samurai
Since you've come this far, why not immerse yourself in the world of ninjas and samurai, rather than just observing the exhibits?
Experiencing the difficulty of handling swords and other weapons will also make for a memorable experience. By the way, the experience programs are popular, so it's better to make a reservation in advance.
Ninja Shuriken Competition
Source: Official website
Here, you can fully enjoy becoming a real ninja. It starts with changing into a ninja's black uniform. In the floor that recreates a ninja residence, you can experience ninja training.
You'll learn about the purpose and usage of the shuriken, the ninjas' signature throwing weapon. After mastering the throwing technique, you can have an intense competition with family or friends to see who can throw the best. It's sure to be a lively and exciting experience!
Ninja Secret Lesson
Source: Official website
Ninjas were a capable spy group known for their intelligence and perseverance. They often infiltrated enemy territory to gather information, and their existence was shrouded in mystery.
In this lesson, you can learn in detail about the history of the mysterious ninjas, the training methods for carrying out secret missions, their weapons and tools, and their various techniques.
It's a rare opportunity to unravel the secrets of the superhuman ninjas who were believed to "fly through the air, run on water, and become invisible." After the experience, you're sure to become even more fascinated by the allure of Japanese ninjas.
Samurai Sword Experience
Source: Official website
The highlight of the SAMURAI and NINJA MUSEUM is the samurai experience. You can don the samurai costume, hakama (pants), and a sword, fully embodying the role of a samurai.
The staff will carefully teach you the basics of sword technique (kenjutsu), from the proper stance and grip of the sword, to how to draw, sheathe, and strike with the sword. It's not just a cosplay, but a true transformation into the very bearing and behavior of a samurai.
The display of real Japanese swords within the museum is also impressive, and the guided tour that explains the fascinating stories behind each famous sword used by historical military commanders is a delightful bonus.
Armor Wearing Photo Session
Source: Official website
Among the many experience programs, a special feature of the SAMURAI and NINJA MUSEUM is the "armor wearing photo session." By donning the samurai armor costumes and authentic kabuto (helmets), you'll be instantly transported back to the tumultuous 15th-16th century. You can transform into a formidable military commander (busyo) of that era.
The museum has a wide range of armor sizes available, from children to adults. The adult-sized kabuto are even genuine antique items! You can directly touch the luxurious and intricate decorations, and feel the substantial weight, preserving a priceless memory in a photograph.
This experience is highly recommended for those who want to enjoy a truly impressive and realistic performance using authentic materials.
It's also English-friendly, so you can fully enjoy your experience
The knowledgeable guides provide detailed explanations about who the samurai and ninjas were, unraveling their history. You can ask questions on the spot, making the tour an interactive one where you can deepen your understanding of all the exhibits.
The collection of Japanese swords not only covers the technical features of each sword, but also delves into the stories behind them. This tour alone will provide a satisfying experience.
Furthermore, the experience programs also accommodate English, so you can fully enjoy the museum.
<Facility Information>
- Address: 292 Utanokoji, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 6:30 PM
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 075-585-5410
- Admission: Basic ticket 3,000 yen *Prices vary by experience plan
- Official website
3 Ninja and Samurai Themed Experiential Facilities and Services
Ninja House Kyoto
Source: Official website
"Ninja House Kyoto" is a ninja-themed facility located near the popular tourist spot Kiyomizudera, on the Ninenzaka staircase.
Here, you can experience ninja costume photography and ninja training. The training mainly involves using ninja weapons like shuriken (throwing stars) and fukiya (blow darts). While the missions are simple, like aiming at wall targets or balloons, it's actually quite challenging! You can get excited competing with the other participants.
Another attractive feature is the freedom to choose your own photography locations. In addition to the traditional Kyoto-style buildings within the facility, you can also take photos while exploring the beautiful Ninenzaka area. Portraits of you in ninja attire blending into the Kyoto scenery make for unforgettable souvenirs.
After indulging in the experience, you can take a break and enjoy the set coffee or soft drinks.
<Facility Information>
- Address: 351-13 Masuya-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 075-525-1080
- Fee: From 4,000 yen
- Official website
Ninja Experience Café
Source: Official website
The "Ninja Experience Café Kyoto Gion" is an entertainment café with a ninja house-like atmosphere, located in the Gion area of Kyoto, a famous sightseeing spot.
Here, you can enjoy the tricks and traps set up throughout the rooms, like a revolving door that leads you to the back of the room, or a hanging scroll (kakejiku) that you can pop out from.
There is also an option to take a walk around the nearby famous spots like Hanamikoji and Yasaka Shrine while dressed as a ninja.
You can visit the café without the ninja experience. The menu items also have a unique twist, like a curry modeled after a shuriken or a fondant chocolate using "fire technique." They also accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and halal dietary needs, so be sure to consult when making reservations if necessary.
<Facility Information>
- Address: 6F Shinkei Bldg., 398 Hashimoto-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 070-8913-6073
- Experience Fee: From 3,500 yen
- Official website
Samurai Kenbu Theater
Source:ACTIVITY JAPAN
"Samurai Kembu Theater" is a place where you can learn about the essence of the samurai culture more deeply. You can experience a traditional performance art called "Kenbu," where the warriors (Bushi, aka samurai) dance with swords.
Kenbu became more widely known in the late 1800s. This was the time of the Meiji Restoration, a major political reform in Japan, when the carrying of swords was prohibited. As a result, the warrior class lost their profession, and they began to showcase their sword skills through public performances, leading to the art form of Kenbu.
There are many stage performances, each depicting a story with historical Japanese figures.
In the experience lesson, you'll learn the basic sword handling techniques and etiquette while wearing the stage costume, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sacred world.
<Facility Information>
- Address: B1F GOZAN, 35-7 Sanjo-dori Hanamikoji-higashi-iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (by reservation)
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 075-751-2033
- Fee: Adults 10,000 yen, Children (6-11 years old) 9,000 yen *Accompanying observers 2,000 yen
- Official website