Feel the samurai spirit and experience martial arts.
Budoku-den Hall, the heart of martial arts in Aizu
Even today, the samurai spirit of Bushido is alive and well in Japan. The spirit values sympathy and thoughtfulness for others, trust in and faithfulness to our loved ones, and an attitude to beautifully live a life as a human. Martial arts help train our minds, techniques, and physical strength as one. Not only that, they improve our personal qualities, edify us, and make us have sincere respect for others.
The samurai spirit is alive and well in Aizu. In Aizu, the art of the sword, the halberd, and the Japanese bow are each actively practiced.

■Samurai kendo experience

◆Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 19:30-20:45

After watching kendo practice at the Budoku-den Martial Arts Hall, you will put on a kendo uniform and practice kendo. You will feel as if you were in the movie LAST SAMURAI!
  • English guidance available
  • Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Reservation: At least 7 days before
  • Group size: 1 to 5 persons

■Samurai naginata experience

◆Saturdays and Sundays 10:00 – 11:30

Naginata is one of Japan’s traditional martial arts.
After watching naginata practice, you will practice it.
  • English guidance available
  • Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Reservation: At least 7 days before
  • Group size: 1 to 5 persons

■Samurai kyudo experience

◆9:00 -17:00 every day(Last admission:16:00)

Nisshinkan was the school for the children of the Aizu clan’s feudal retainers. The school is reconstructed to the original state. At its archery range, you can try your hands at shooting a Japanese bow. In addition, you can see what the education was like at the old times.
  • English guidance available
  • Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Reservation: At least 5 days before
  • Group size: 1 to 8 persons

■Samurai armor experience

◆9:00 – 15:00 Every day excluding April 15 to May 10, August 10 to 19 and December 28 to January 3

Put on a set of armor, you will become an Aizu samurai! This activity includes photo taking against a background of Tsurugajo Castle and having green tea at the tea house. A digital copy of your photo will be e-mailed to you.

  • No English guidance
  • Time: 2 hours
  • Reservation: At least 3 days before
  • Group size: 1 to 3 persons
Please note that the above activities will not be available if relevant halls are used for tournaments or games.