Kendo class in Naha: 2-hour samurai experience

Kendo teaches three things at once: technique, history, and the discipline that shaped samurai culture.

A 2-hour kendo class in Naha where you learn from an English-speaking instructor with over 20 years of experience. You'll practice strikes and footwork, spar with the instructor, watch a demonstration, and study the etiquette and history that define the martial art. All equipment and a kendo towel are included. The class suits groups of up to two people, and children from age 10 are welcome.

The experience

On your first afternoon in Okinawa, or whenever you have two hours free, you step into a kendo studio and work with an instructor who speaks English and can break down the fundamentals so they stick. The class starts with basic etiquette (how to bow, how to hold the sword, the posture that unifies your mind and body), then moves into practical strikes. You'll learn not just the mechanics of hitting, but why kendo matters as a martial art: the history, the spiritual discipline, the way samurai trained for centuries.

The instructor demonstrates technique, then you practice it. You'll hit the training pads, work through footwork, and spar with the instructor in a controlled match. All the armor and weapons are provided. You don't bring anything except yourself. The class weaves together the physical skill, the cultural knowledge, and the mental focus that kendo demands, so you leave understanding why this practice has survived so long.

You get a bottled water and a free kendo towel to take with you. The whole session runs two hours, and it's built for small groups, usually two people, so the instructor can watch your form and correct it in real time.

What’s included

• All kendo equipment rental (armor, sword, protective gear).
• bottled water.
• free kendo towel to keep.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday, Wednesday, Thursday and FridayDeparts at 13:00

AgesAdult (13 to 87 years) · Child (10 to 12 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 5

Live guideEnglish and Japanese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortStroller-friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by SAMURAI TRIP

Is this one for you?The instructor teaches in English, so you'll follow every step even if you've never trained before. Book this if you want to learn kendo properly from someone with real expertise, not just watch a demonstration.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Japanese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 12 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

Can I do this kendo class if I've never trained before?

Yes. The class is designed for first-timers and covers everything from basic etiquette to strikes and sparring. The instructor has over 20 years of experience teaching beginners and will walk you through each step.

What does the kendo instructor teach about samurai culture?

The instructor covers the history of kendo as a martial art, the etiquette and manners that define it, and the spiritual discipline that shaped samurai training. You'll learn why these practices matter, not just how to perform them.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?

No. All kendo equipment (armor, sword, protective gear) is provided and included in the class. You just need to show up ready to train.

Is the class held in English?

Yes. The instructor speaks English and teaches in a way that's easy to understand, so language won't be a barrier to learning.