Kendo in Sapporo: Learn from a 6 Dan Instructor

You'll strike the instructor's armor by the end of the session.

A 90-minute kendo class in Sapporo with a 6 Dan instructor teaches you basic techniques and the philosophy of the martial art, starting with a short lecture on Japanese "do" culture. The class includes a bamboo sword, kendo protective gear rental, and bottled water. Up to four people can wear full kendo armor at once. Children from age 6 are welcome, and instruction is available in English or Japanese.

The experience

The instructor, Takeru, opens with a lecture on Japanese "do" culture and what makes kendo meaningful beyond the strikes themselves. You'll learn the basic movements with a bamboo sword in hand, then move to striking the instructor's armor. The moment the technique becomes real. If you want higher intensity, you can arrange for continuous striking drills or heavier equipment before you book. The session wraps with time to take photos in your kendo gear.

Kendo clothes and a bamboo sword are provided for each person. Bring or wear comfortable clothes underneath. Up to four people can rent full protective armor during the same session, so if you're coming with others, you can coordinate who wears it. Bottled water is included. The class runs 90 minutes and suits all fitness levels, though it's not recommended for people with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy.

What’s included

• Bottled water.
• entrance fee.
• rental of kendo clothes.
• rental of bamboo sword for each participant.
• rental of kendo protective gear (up to four people can wear armor during the same session).
• live instruction in English or Japanese.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday and FridayDeparts at 09:30Last departure this season: 31 Dec

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (6 to 12 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

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 due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Takeru

Is this one for you?The class is located in Sapporo with public transportation options nearby, so you don't need a car to get there or to participate. If you're staying in the city without your own transport, this setup means you can book and arrive on your own schedule.

Traveler reviews

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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 (6 to 12 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What exactly do I learn in a 90-minute kendo class?

You start with a lecture on Japanese "do" culture and kendo philosophy, then learn basic movements with a bamboo sword. The core of the session is striking the instructor's armor so you practice the technique under guidance. If you want a more intense workout, you can arrange continuous striking drills or heavier equipment when you book.

Do I need to bring my own kendo clothes and sword?

No. Kendo clothes and a bamboo sword are provided for each person. You should bring or wear comfortable clothes to change into underneath. Protective armor rental is also included if you want to wear it.

Can up to four people wear kendo armor at the same time?

Yes. Up to four people can rent full protective gear during the same session. If you're booking with a group, let the instructor know during checkout who wants to wear armor.