Swordsmanship in Samurai style!

<<Jesse's Experience Report!!>>

The "Swordsmanship in Samurai style" event is one that almost anyone can enjoy! Whether you are into physical activities, interested in Japanese culture and history, or simply a sword fanatic who was a fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as a child, you are in for a great time!

This event is located in Chiyoda-ku, and is a quick hop from the nearest station. I highly recommend getting there early, because you might get to see the tail end of the previous class. We were fortunate enough to see a group of older gentlemen who were all very skilled. Observing their poses and technique from trained professionals was really something to behold! 

After the class finishes you are invited into a large class room where they have many ancient artifacts too look at. They have everything from ancient samurai armor, to all kinds of samurai weapons, to masks and art. Most of the items are well over 300 years old! They even have many tsubas (the guard part of the sword. It is usually round and right below the blade to protect you from your blade or another blade sliding down to hit your hand!) on sale. Many are priced around 200000+ yen! But this was nothing compared to the ancient katanas they had that you could buy.

After some preparation for the class, setting up mats to be cut as well as preparing more rolled mats for next classes because they need to be soaked in water for 3 days before using, Sensei Michinari Sakaguchi begins to give everyone a lesson on how to stand, hold the katana, and how to breath and think while swinging it. After some practice everyone gets one chance to cut a mat! It is fairly difficult because it isnt about strength, but mind and control.

After everyone gets a chance, there is a graduation ceremony where each participant will review a certificate and some nice gifts for coming. This is one of my favorite things i have done in Japan and if you can defiantly check this one out!

If you would like to have this experience, you can reserve through Swordsmanship in Samurai style!