Half Day Archery and Samurai Experience in Matsumoto

5.0 (3 reviews) 4 hours Free cancellation

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3 reviews

5.0

Half Day Archery and Samurai Experience in Matsumoto — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Half Day Archery and Samurai Experience in Matsumoto, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience Matsumoto’s Celebrated Samurai Culture!

Constructed at the end of the Warring States Period, Matsumoto Castle is the grandest symbol of the city’s feudal origins and samurai heritage. During your experience you will be provided with further insight into the feudal domain that was once ruled by the daimyo and his samurai.

To this day, residents of Matsumoto remain proud of that heritage, that can be experienced firsthand through historic activities available in the city. Among those activities, traditional ‘katana’ (sword) fighting and ‘hankyu’ (archery) are two of the most popular on offer, both of which can be enjoyed during this experience.

Samurai employed both close combat and long-range weapons including archery. Following-on from your katana experience, you will be guided in use of a hankyu bow inside a room designed for the experience.

Learn the art of the ‘Katana’ Sword and extend your skill with ‘Hankyu’ Archery during this half-day samurai experience!

Historical Tours Sports Lessons Archery Classes Swordsmanship Classes Best Conversion Top Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 4 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–4
Guide: English
Operated by: Welcome Matsumoto

Ages: Infants (0–5 years) · Children (6–17 years) · Adults (18–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Entry/Admission – Matsumoto Castle
Included: Entry/Admission – Samurai Experience Activity
Included: English Speaking Guide
Included: Entry/Admission – Archery Experience Activity
Included: Samurai outfits, swords and archery rental during the activity

Not included

Not included: Miscellaneous fees during the activity (meals, snacks, souvenirs etc.)
Not included: Insurance (Travel Insurance, Private Insurance, etc...)

Itinerary

- Learn the Art of the ‘Katana’ Sword You can try your hand at use of these legendary weapons on a private half-day tour including instruction by a samurai master. An expert in handling the swords, your instructor will guide you in traditional techniques used by samurai while providing insight into that world through their deep knowledge. You’ll also have the chance to wear samurai kimono and accoutrements, as you step back in time and play the role of the warriors that once defended the ‘daimyo’ (feudal lord) and his domain. - Extend Your Skill with ‘Hankyu’ Archery You will be guided in use of a hankyu bow inside a room specifically designed for the experience. Targets are placed at 5 and 7 meters and once you are confident in use of the bow, you are free to have many attempts to refine your skill – a great way for families and friends to compete!

Stop 1
Matsumoto Castle

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Tour begins at Matsumoto Station at the front of the JR Line ticket office / Starbucks Coffee inside the station (2F)

End point

Tour begins at Matsumoto Station at the front of the JR Line ticket office / Starbucks Coffee inside the station (2F)

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that the stairs to reach the top of Matsumoto Castle’s tower are steep and narrow.
In Japan, authentic katanas are classified as illegal weapons under strict licensing laws. Tourists can see them in museums or specialty shops, but theatrical swords are widely used in performances, training, and during our samurai experience.
This activity focuses on proper sword techniques and kata accessible to all including families. It does not involve any type of slicing or cutting of objects.
There is no minimum age requirements
Children less than 6 years old can participate for free (kid’s outfits and foam swords are included at no additional fees)