Kyoto: Samurai & Ninja Museum Entry with Armor & Katana Lesson

Summary

Try samurai armor swing a katana and laugh with locals in Kyoto

You’ll slip into real samurai armor, try your hand at a katana lesson, and compete in a ninja star throw — all inside Kyoto’s Samurai & Ninja Museum with a local guide leading the way. Expect laughter, history, and hands-on moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that happened was my helmet nearly sliding off. I’d barely managed to tie the cords under my chin before our guide, Yuki, grinned and asked if I was ready for battle. Honestly, I wasn’t — the samurai armor is heavier than it looks (and kind of clunky), but standing there in the middle of Kyoto’s Samurai & Ninja Museum, surrounded by old swords and hushed schoolkids, I felt this weird mix of pride and total awkwardness. Yuki told us stories about samurai wandering these same streets centuries ago. There was this faint scent of tatami mats and something metallic — maybe from all those blades lined up on the wall.

I didn’t expect to actually hold a katana. My hands were sweating so much I almost dropped it (don’t worry, they supervise you closely). The lesson was quick but real — just enough to make you realize how hard it must’ve been to master. When we got to the ninja star throw, everyone got competitive fast. Some little kid nailed the target on his first try; I missed completely and laughed so hard my mask slipped sideways. Yuki clapped anyway — she said “spirit matters more than aim,” which feels true for travel too.

There’s something about seeing families and solo travelers all trying on helmets or practicing their best warrior pose that makes you feel part of some big, goofy club. Even though the museum gets busy (we were about 20 people), it never felt rushed or too touristy. If you’re looking for a day trip in Kyoto that’s not just temples or shrines — this is it. The whole experience sticks with you; sometimes I still remember the cool weight of that sword handle in my palm.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Samurai and ninja museum experience

• Join guided samurai and ninja tour
• Try on samurai armor
• Take katana sword lesson
• Throw ninja star

Top questions

Is entry to the Samurai & Ninja Museum Kyoto included?

Yes, entry is included with your ticket for this tour.

Can I try on real samurai armor during the tour?

Yes, wearing samurai armor is part of the experience.

Are there lessons on using a katana?

A short katana lesson is included with supervision from staff.

Is there a ninja star throwing activity?

Yes, you can participate in a ninja star (shuriken) throw competition.

Is this activity suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible and strollers are allowed.

How many people are on each tour?

The maximum group size is 30 travelers per session.

What’s included

Your visit includes skip-the-line entry to Kyoto’s Samurai & Ninja Museum, hands-on use of samurai costume and armor, a guided tour with stories from local experts, participation in a ninja star throw competition, plus all activities supervised for safety throughout your time there.