Ninja Samurai 2-hour hands-on lesson by Japanese master in Tokyo

The surprising part of this two-hour class is how quickly it moves from history to hands-on practice. You’ll try Kuji-In meditation, throw shuriken and practise with a blowgun, then learn how to draw and use a samurai sword. I like the small class limit of six, and I like that the English-language instruction pairs practical skills with background on ninja and samurai traditions.

One thing to plan for: the studio is in Shiomi, away from central Tokyo’s main sightseeing districts, and the entrance can take a little finding. The class may also include physical moves such as running or jumping, so it suits you best if you’re comfortable being active.

At a glance

• Small class: No more than six participants, which gives you room for individual instruction.
• Ninja practice: Try Kuji-In meditation, shuriken, a blowgun and other ninja tools.
• Samurai skills: Learn sword handling and how to draw the sword, then practise what you’ve been shown.
• English instruction: A Japanese instructor teaches both technique and historical context.
• Ninja clothing included: Dress for the lesson without packing a costume.
• Two hours in Shiomi: The class starts and ends at NINJA SAMURAI TOKYO.

From everyday Tokyo to the training room

NINJA SAMURAI TOKYO is at Bayfrere Shiomi in Koto City, a practical address to save before setting out: 2-chōme-3-9 Shiomi, East 4F, Tokyo 135-0052. The studio is near public transportation, but it’s not in the central sightseeing zone, so allow time to reach the area and find the right building.

Getting there deserves a little care. The address has proved hard for some people to locate, particularly by taxi, and a map pin can be more useful than asking a driver to find the venue from the name alone. One person found it by walking directly from a station, but the station name is not specified, so check your route before leaving.

The studio is on the fourth floor. There have been occasions when the elevator was out of service, which meant taking four short flights of stairs. If stairs could be difficult for you or someone in your party, contact the provider before booking rather than assuming the lift will be working.

Dressing for the lesson

The class includes rental ninja clothing, a small but welcome touch that helps set the tone without requiring you to bring anything special. You’ll change before training begins, then move through a mix of instruction, demonstration and practice.

Expect a real training space rather than a grand theatrical set. That distinction matters: the point is to learn and try techniques, not to watch a polished stage show for two hours. The dojo setting may look simpler than some promotional images suggest, but it puts the focus on the instructor and the activities.

The group limit of six is one of the strongest practical features. You’re less likely to spend the class waiting for a turn than you would in a large group, and the instructor can keep an eye on how you’re handling each exercise. It also makes this a good choice for a family or a few friends who want to share an activity rather than sit side by side at a performance.

Ninja meditation, tools and clever tricks

The lesson introduces Kuji-In, a form of ninja meditation, as well as ninja tools and weapons. The meditation offers a change of pace from the more active parts of the class, while the explanations give you a way to understand ninja practice beyond its familiar screen-image of stealth and spectacle.

You’ll also get an introduction to devices and tricks associated with ninja houses. This is a useful reminder that the lesson is not only about weapons. It connects practical tools with the ingenuity and tactics that helped shape popular stories about ninja.

The class is hands-on, but the instructor sets the pace and explains what to do. You don’t need to arrive with martial arts experience. People of different ages and skill levels have taken part, and the class is described as suitable for most participants.

Shuriken and blowgun practice

Expect to practise throwing shuriken, commonly called ninja stars, and to try a ninja blowgun with darts. These are memorable parts of the session because you get to use the tools rather than simply hear them described. Some classes also include practice with other ninja implements, such as chopsticks.

The challenge is less about being athletic than paying attention to the instructions and giving each exercise a try. A few activities may involve movement, including running or jumping, so it’s sensible to wear clothes you can move in under or around the costume. The exact sequence and amount of practice with each item can vary.

The instructor’s role is especially important here. Good teaching makes unfamiliar tools feel approachable and keeps the activity focused on safe, controlled practice. The class is taught in English, and instructors named by participants have included Hyoga, Onel, Asami and Buddy. Your instructor may be someone else.

Learning the samurai sword

The samurai portion shifts from ninja tools to the Japanese sword. You’ll learn how to draw it and how to use it, with the instructor demonstrating the movement before you practise. The point is not to become a swordsman in one sitting, but to understand the care, posture and sequence behind a technique that films often make look effortless.

Some participants have described practising with a metal sword, while others refer more generally to using a samurai sword. Equipment may differ by session, so don’t book on the assumption that every class uses the same type of blade. Follow the instructor’s directions closely, particularly when handling a sword for the first time.

The lesson may finish with a short performance or routine using the techniques you’ve learned. That gives the class a satisfying final shape: first you see how a movement is done, then you try it, then you can put a few parts together. It’s fun, but the value is in taking part, not in expecting a formal martial arts demonstration.

What two hours are worth

At $86.22 per person, this is a paid activity rather than a bargain-basement attraction. The price covers a two-hour lesson, an English-speaking instructor, admission and rental ninja clothes. Bottled water and private transportation are not included.

I think the value depends on what you want from your time in Tokyo. If you’re looking for an unusual activity that lets you learn something, handle training equipment and share a laugh with your group, the class offers more than a photo stop. The small maximum group size helps make the instruction feel personal, and the mix of meditation, tools, sword practice and historical context keeps the session varied.

If you’re mainly after a dramatic, polished show, this may not be the right fit. The venue is a training space, and the experience is built around participation. You’ll get the most from it if you’re willing to try unfamiliar movements and don’t mind looking a little awkward while you learn.

Who will enjoy this class

This is a strong pick for families with older children, couples and friends who want an activity they can do together. Families with children as young as 11 have taken part, and participants from 11 to 73 have found ways to join in. That range suggests the class can suit different ages, though the physical parts may not be right for everyone.

You don’t need to be sporty or have a background in martial arts. Patience, curiosity and a willingness to follow instructions matter more. If you have mobility concerns, ask the provider about the movements and stairs before booking, since the venue is on the fourth floor and some exercises may involve running or jumping.

It’s also a good fit if you’re interested in the history behind ninja and samurai traditions, not only the weapons. The instructor explains cultural and historical details and may correct familiar assumptions drawn from anime or action films. You’ll leave with a better sense of the gap between popular images and the skills presented in class.

Booking and practical details

The activity lasts about two hours, starts and ends at NINJA SAMURAI TOKYO, and uses a mobile ticket. Confirmation is provided at booking. The group is capped at six people, and the activity requires a minimum number of participants.

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations or changes made within 24 hours are not accepted for a refund. If poor weather cancels the activity, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund; if the minimum group size is not met, you’ll be offered another date or experience, or a refund.

Before you go, save the address and check the route carefully. Arrive with enough time to locate the building, wear something comfortable for movement and bring water if you want it, since bottled water is not included.

Should you book it?

Book this class if you want a lively, hands-on way to learn about ninja and samurai skills, and you’re happy to take part rather than watch from the sidelines. The mix of meditation, weapons practice, sword instruction and historical context is unusual for a two-hour Tokyo activity, while the six-person cap should help keep the lesson personal.

Skip it if you want a central location, a quiet museum-style visit or a show with no physical participation. If you’re comfortable with the Shiomi location and the possibility of stairs or active movements, this is a memorable way to add something different to a Tokyo itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the class?

The lesson lasts about two hours.

How much does it cost?

The listed price is $86.22 per person.

How many people can join?

The class has a maximum of six participants.

Is the class taught in English?

Yes. A Japanese instructor teaches the class in English.

What activities are included?

The class covers Kuji-In meditation, ninja tools and tricks, shuriken throwing, blowgun practice, and samurai sword techniques.

Are ninja clothes provided?

Yes. Ninja clothing is included for use during the lesson.

Where does the class meet?

It meets at NINJA SAMURAI TOKYO, Bayfrere Shiomi, East 4F, 2-chōme-3-9 Shiomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0052.

Where does the activity end?

It ends back at the meeting point.

Are water and transportation included?

No. Bottled water and private transportation are not included.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes, if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience starts. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time are not refunded.