Study samurai swordplay in the castle town of Aizuwakamatsu, where traditional values never grew old.

Study samurai swordplay in the castle town of Aizuwakamatsu, where traditional values never grew old.

Kendo, a martial art born from samurai swordsmanship and values, is practiced to maintain fitness while increasing dexterity and mental sharpness. But besides its historical and practical context, it’s also great fun! Using bamboo swords and protective armor is the safest way to experience samurai swordplay for yourself.

Aizu Butokuden, a dojo in the center of the historic samurai town of Aizuwakamatsu, is a great place to learn all about kendo. Sitting in front of Tsuruga-jo Castle, a faithful recreation of the destroyed original, the dojo was established in 1934 to promote kendo throughout Japan. Now, anyone looking to get in touch with their samurai spirit can find inspiration while watching professionals train, before donning armor and trying it out.

With the help of a translator, a kendo master will gently guide you through the basics. Swords and armor are all provided, so bring your fighting spirit! Besides swordplay, you’ll be taught the turbulent history of Aizuwakamatsu, which includes the final samurai holdout at Tsuruga-jo Castle during the collapse of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This fascinating class provides profound insight into the surrounding culture, prompting a new appreciation for the art of kendo and the samurai code. The class runs for an about an hour and 15 minutes, and can be booked on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 19:00 – 20:00. It needs to be booked at least one week in advance.

Aizu Kendo Experience

Aizu Kendo Experience

Aizu Butokuden dojo stands in the shadow of the mighty Tsuruga-jo Castle. Its distinctive traditional architecture resembling a Buddhist temple makes it a breeze to find. Only a few hours north of Tokyo by bullet train and local train, there’s plenty to do while you’re in Aizuwakamatsu.

Aizu Butokuden

1-10 Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima 965-0873

View Direction

09:00 – 21:00

Samurai Spirit Tourism

Tel: +81 24-521-7287

Samurai Spirit Tourism

https://samurai-spirit.com/index.html

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