Become a Samurai This Weekend! An Introduction to the Samurai Experience That’s Even More Fun When You Know the History

Wearing heavy armor and holding a sword, you step beyond time and fully embody the spirit of a warrior. The “Samurai Experience” has been gaining attention as an activity that creates unforgettable memories. In this article, we introduce three carefully selected facilities from across Japan where you can not only enjoy an authentic transformation but also capture your appearance with high-quality photos and videos.

Table of Contents

• 1. What is a “Samurai”?
• 2. What kinds of Samurai Experiences are available?
• 3. Three Recommended Samurai Experience Spots
  
  

1. What is a “Samurai”?

When you hear the word “samurai,” what kind of image comes to mind? Perhaps a brave warrior with a sword at his side, ready to risk his life for his lord. That is certainly one side of the samurai, but if we trace back to their origins and history, a different picture begins to emerge.

　・What does the word “Samurai” actually mean?

The term “samurai” originally comes from the Japanese verb saburau, which means “to serve” or “to attend closely to someone of high rank.” In its earliest sense, “samurai” referred to the people who served nobles and the emperor, assisting with daily needs or providing protection.

In other words, samurai were not warriors from the very beginning. It may be easier to think of them initially as something like secretaries or bodyguards for the aristocracy, rather than professional fighters.

　・From warriors to rulers: the history of the samurai

Over time, these warriors, known as bushi, armed themselves to defend their lands and masters. Eventually, they gained immense power, enough to influence the entire nation. This culminated in Minamoto no Yoritomo establishing the Kamakura Shogunate, elevating the samurai to the ruling class of Japan. From that moment on, the samurai became central figures in Japanese history.

The image most people imagine today—a fearless warrior pledging loyalty to his lord and fighting to the death—comes primarily from the Sengoku period, an era of constant warfare. However, once that age of conflict ended and peace came with the Edo period, the role of the samurai changed again. While they continued to carry swords as symbols of their social status, their main duty shifted to administration and governance. Instead of demonstrating valor on the battlefield, they wielded brushes in castles, managing domains and serving as officials. This too was an important aspect of the samurai.


　・The spirit of the samurai in the modern world

So, does that mean samurai no longer exist today? Of course, the social class of samurai has disappeared. Yet, it can be said that their spirit still lives on within us.

For example, in the world of sports, Japan’s national baseball team is often called “Samurai Japan.” This name reflects their discipline, sense of fair play, and determination to represent the nation with pride—all qualities that resonate with the image of the samurai.

Even though we no longer wield swords, the values of sincerity and self-discipline continue to endure. These qualities are the true essence of the samurai spirit, passed down through the centuries.

3. Three Recommended Samurai Experience Spots

［1］SHOGUN STUDIO JAPAN（京都）

Have an Authentic Samurai Experience by Wearing Real Armor at "Shogun Studio Japan"

　・What is "Shogun Studio Japan"?

On August 5, 2025, a new style of entertainment facility, "Shogun Studio Japan," will open in the historic and scenic Arashiyama district of Kyoto. This studio is a facility where you can experience being dressed in authentic kacchu (samurai armor), just like the warlords of the Sengoku period (Warring States period) wore.

Its purpose is to fuse the traditional Japanese culture of samurai armor with the latest technology to provide an immersive Sengoku experience. It is designed to be enjoyed by a wide range of people, including history buffs, travelers wanting to engage with Japanese culture, and anyone seeking a special memory.

　・Features of "Shogun Studio Japan"

①Authentic Armor Experience:

The studio offers a diverse lineup of armor, from faithful reproductions of armor worn by famous Sengoku warlords to creative, original designs by up-and-coming armor designers. Skilled staff will dress you while explaining the meaning and background of each component, allowing visitors to feel the deep history and culture embedded in the armor.

The significant weight and meticulous attention to detail attest to its authenticity.

②A Futuristic Sengoku Experience with Cutting-Edge Technology:

After being fitted in your armor, you can experience a movie shoot directed by professional video creators. The studio uses projection mapping technology that covers the walls and floor, creating a futuristic space enveloped in light and sound that makes you feel as if you've been transported back to the Sengoku period.

An original samurai movie starring you will be filmed in various scenarios, such as amidst raging flames or in a flurry of falling cherry blossoms. The completed video can be transferred to your smartphone to take home with you.

③Convenient Location:

The studio is located in the Saga-Tenryuji area, one of Kyoto's premier tourist destinations, famous for the Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove. The surrounding area is dotted with numerous famous sites, including the World Heritage site Tenryu-ji Temple, making it an easy addition to any Kyoto sightseeing itinerary. Business hours are from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It offers a special opportunity to stop by during a stroll through Arashiyama and connect with the depth of Japanese history.

［2］Sengoku Photo Studio SAMURAI (Tokyo)

出典：https://samurai-pictures.jp/

Sengoku Photo Studio SAMURAI, located in Yoyogi, Tokyo, is a specialized photo studio dedicated to armor experiences. Here, guests can choose from a wide selection of authentic armor modeled after legendary warlords such as Oda Nobunaga and Date Masamune. After a professional photo shoot, computer graphics are used to add dynamic backgrounds, resulting in artistic works that look like movie posters.

The studio also offers thoughtful services for international visitors. Its official website provides an English-language page, ensuring accessibility for tourists from abroad. Conveniently located within walking distance of JR and subway Shinjuku Station and JR Yoyogi Station, it is easy to access from Tokyo’s main transport hubs. Safety is also carefully considered—some plans include instruction on samurai poses and tate (theatrical sword fighting), with guests using safe replica swords under the guidance of trained staff. This makes the experience enjoyable and secure for first-time participants.   

［3］Real Armor Experience at Kishiwada Castle (Osaka)

出典：https://kishibura.jp/news/2024/06/samurai_armor_dressing_experience/

In Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture, you can enjoy a rare samurai experience against the authentic backdrop of a real Japanese castle. Visitors don real armor and explore the grounds around Kishiwada Castle, including its main keep, while taking photos in a truly atmospheric setting. Unlike a studio shoot, the open-air environment provides a sense of freedom and realism, all at an affordable price.

The facility also ensures accessibility for international guests, with English-language guidance available on the official website. The reception is located at the Kishiwada Castle Ninomaru Square Tourism Exchange Center. Safety is carefully addressed as well—the armor is designed to be lighter for ease of use, and fitting guidelines such as height (approximately 150–180 cm) are provided. Experiences are canceled in case of rain to ensure guest comfort and safety.

Through these three destinations—Shogun Studio Japan in Kyoto, Sengoku Photo Studio SAMURAI in Tokyo, and Kishiwada Castle in Osaka—you can encounter different aspects of the samurai spirit. Whether you seek a high-tech samurai experience in Kyoto, a cinematic transformation in Tokyo, or an open-air adventure at a historical castle in Osaka, each offers its own unforgettable way to connect with Japan’s warrior heritage.   

 Conclusion 

In this article, we explored the origins and history of the samurai, the spirit that continues to live on today, and the many ways we can experience their world in the present day.

From its original meaning as “those who serve nobles,” the role of the samurai evolved over time into rulers, warriors, and eventually administrators. While their outward form has never been just one thing, the underlying spirit of sincerity and self-discipline continues to inspire us today, known as the enduring “samurai spirit.”

And the profound world of the samurai is no longer confined to the pages of history. Today, we can encounter it in many ways: by donning authentic armor and becoming a warlord, by practicing swordsmanship to strengthen both body and mind, or by immersing ourselves in the preserved townscapes where samurai once lived.

The places we introduced—such as the latest studio in Kyoto, as well as experiences in Tokyo and Osaka—show how admiration for the samurai has evolved beyond simple commemorative photos into unforgettable memories and even works of art.

Perhaps this article can serve as the spark for you to open the door to the samurai world in your own way. A special time awaits you, where you can connect with the depth of Japan’s history and culture.