Kyoto: Ninja Hands-On Class with Japanese Master & Gear

Summary

Kyoto ninja training class with sword shuriken & master

You’ll slip into ninja clothes in a Kyoto dojo and learn from a real Japanese master—meditation, stealthy walking, sword basics, throwing shuriken and even using a blowgun. It’s hands-on from start to finish, with laughs and surprises along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what being a ninja feels like—even just for an hour—you’ll leave with stories (and maybe some new moves).

What’s the experience like?

Li, our sensei, didn’t even blink when I fumbled the bow at the dojo entrance. He just smiled, fixed my stance with a gentle tap on my shoulder, and said, “Everyone starts somewhere.” The tatami smelled faintly of straw and something older—maybe incense? We all shuffled into our borrowed black ninja gear (surprisingly comfy), trying not to trip over the loose pants. I caught myself grinning like a kid. Kyoto outside was busy and bright, but inside the dojo it felt quiet and almost secret.

The lesson started with Kuji-kiri meditation. I’m not usually into that stuff, but there was something about sitting cross-legged in silence while Li traced invisible symbols in the air. My legs went numb fast, but my mind sort of slowed down too. Then came breathing drills—like yoga but sharper somehow—and learning how to walk like a ninja (which is harder than you’d think; my knees cracked so loud I made everyone laugh). The main keyword here is “ninja training Kyoto”—but honestly, it felt more like play than exercise.

Trying out the weapons was wild. We got to hold a real (blunt) ninja sword—he showed us how to draw it slow and smooth. The kunai dagger felt heavier than I expected. When it came time for shuriken throwing, I missed every target except one—and Li clapped anyway. The blowgun was trickier; I inhaled at the wrong moment and nearly coughed out a dart (don’t do that). There were these clever trick doors in the dojo too—Li demonstrated one and disappeared behind a wall panel so fast we all just stared. Still can’t figure out how he did it.

I left sweaty and a little sore, but weirdly proud. Walking back through Kyoto’s narrow streets in regular clothes again felt strange after an hour as a “ninja.” Sometimes when things get noisy at home now, I try that breathing trick Li taught us—doesn’t always work, but sometimes it does.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Basic ninja training session

• Start with dojo courtesy
• Practice ninja meditation Kuji-kiri
• Learn ninja breath control
• Train basic and ninja walking
• Explore ninja trick house gimmicks
• Watch ninja sword demonstration
• Practice sword training
• Train with kunai dagger
• Practice shuriken throwing
• Train with ninja blowgun

Top questions

How long is the ninja training class in Kyoto?

The class lasts for one hour.

Is the lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's an entry-level session suitable for all fitness levels.

What activities are included in the ninja training?

You’ll do meditation, breathing exercises, ninja walking, sword basics, kunai dagger practice, shuriken throwing, blowgun use, and see trick house gimmicks.

Do I need to bring special clothes?

No—ninja clothes are provided for you during training.

Is there an English-speaking instructor?

Yes—the Japanese sensei teaches in English.

Are there any health restrictions?

The class isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes—public transportation options are available close to the dojo.

What’s included

Your hour includes admission to the Kyoto dojo itself plus rental of full ninja gear for your training session. A Japanese sensei who speaks English leads all activities—from meditation to weapon practice—and you’ll get hands-on time with swords, kunai daggers, shuriken stars and even blowguns before heading back out into Kyoto’s streets.