Step into a Yamanashi budokan for a two-hour introductory kendo lesson that blends strict etiquette with hands-on sword work. Ideal for beginners, the class covers posture, strikes, supervised matches, and ends with a communal cooldown and bathing facilities.
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A breath of warmed wood and waxed floor greets you as participants bow into the training hall. The instructor—a compact presence in a karate-style keikogi—guides a small group through the ritual: bow, posture, grip. Bamboo swords click rhythmically, and the room fills with focused breath and the sharp cry of kiai.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect moderate cardio and leg work during footwork drills
Wildlife
History
Kendo evolved from samurai sword schools and was systematized into modern practice in the late 19th and early 20th centuries; budokan venues preserve both sport and etiquette.
Conservation
Respect dojo rules, minimize single-use plastics, and support local onsen and eateries that practice water-saving measures to protect regional hot-spring resources.
Reserve your spot on the Learn the Way of the Sword today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 10–15 minutes early
Give yourself time to change, bow in, and receive a brief orientation—etiquette and timing are part of the lesson.
Clothing and footwear
Wear flexible athletic clothes; the operator supplies keikogi and bogu, but bring easy slip-on shoes for quick transitions.
Hydrate and eat lightly
Train on an empty-to-light stomach and carry water—practice includes vigorous swings and matches that raise your heart rate.
Use the bathing facilities
Bring a towel or rent one locally to shower after practice—soaking helps cool muscles and follows local norms.
Flexible athletic clothing
Wear clothes that allow full range of motion; the dojo supplies the formal uniform.
Towel
For showering in the on-site bathing facilities after training.
Refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during drills and matches.
summer
Slip-on shoes or sandals
Makes changing into dojo slippers faster and keeps the training area clean.