[東京] Tokyo "Discover all about samurai" half-day guided tour

• Understanding the samurai is key to grasping Japan’s history and culture. They ruled for 700 years, and their values still shape modern Japanese society.
• This tour highlights both the sword—seen as the soul of the samurai—and their enduring ideals. You'll experience swordsmanship firsthand, watch a master’s live demonstration, and, if you opt for it, try cutting a rolled tatami mat with a real sword.
• At the sword museum, admire the artistry of Japanese swords, and at a sword shop, explore or purchase one with help from a guide.
• You’ll also visit a samurai-related site to learn about their values and legacy.

Experience Iaido, a dominant art of swordsmanship practiced by samurai. If you can imagine a samurai swiftly and deftly slicing a roll of straw mat, that is Iaido. After arriving at the Iaido dojo, change into a samurai attire with a sword. Learn from a master what Iaido is about, flow of experience, and actually slash a cardboard with a sword; not a roll of straw mat for your safety. You will have an option to buy a samurai attire and / or sword used in the experience. Observe solo demonstration of the master up close to marvel at his skill, which is especially impressive after your own experience. You will receive a certificate of completion at the end. We can arrange purchase of a sword or samurai attire used in the experience for those interested. All necessary arrangements can be made on the spot.