Two hours, and you throw stars in Tokyo. This small-group Ninja Samurai class in Shiomi mixes ninja meditation (Kuji-In), weapon training, and a samurai sword lesson in a way that feels like real practice, not museum theater. The vibe is playful, but the skills are serious.

I especially like the English teaching from a Japanese master. Names that show up in instructor reports include Hyoga sensei, Onel, Asami, and Buddy, and the common thread is clear directions, lots of hands-on time, and humor that keeps everyone moving.

A possible drawback is logistics. The meeting building is up several flights of stairs, and in at least one case the elevator was not working, so plan for stairs. Also note the activity requires good weather, and some drills can involve quick movement.

Key highlights before you go

• Small groups up to six people means you are not watching from the back row.
• Kuji-In ninja meditation is included, so you learn the mindset, not just the gadgets.
• Shuriken and blow dart practice happens with instructor guidance and target drills.
• Samurai sword skills include how to draw and use the sword, plus a short performance you practice.
• Ninja clothes rental helps you get into character without buying anything.
• English instruction keeps the historical context and techniques understandable.

A dojo-style lesson in the heart of Tokyo

This class is built around one simple idea: you learn best by doing. In about two hours, you cycle through ninja training, then shift into samurai technique, with the instructor coaching you step-by-step the whole way.

What makes it interesting is the balance. You get a bit of feudal-era context as you train, but you also spend real time practicing tools like shuriken and blow darts. It is not just posing for photos. You will actually swing, throw, and handle training props under supervision.

The small-group setup matters too. With a maximum of six people, the instructor can correct your grip, stance, and rhythm without rushing you. If you like interactive classes and you hate lectures, this format fits.

Finding Ninja Samurai Tokyo: address, timing, and what to expect on arrival

Your starting point is Ninja Samurai Tokyo in Shiomi, Koto City. The address listed is 2-chōme 39 Bayfrere Shiomi East 4階, Shiomi, Tokyo 135-0052.

Two practical tips I recommend:

• Arrive a little early. Even with a nearby public transportation option, this is one of those Tokyo locations where you want time to confirm you are at the right building and floor.
• Plan for stairs. Reports include cases where you may need to climb several flights because the elevator may not be available.

You will receive a mobile ticket, which usually means you can show it on your phone at check-in. This helps on a busy day, but still double-check you have it accessible before you leave your station.

Once inside, expect a dojo feel. You will change into ninja training clothes provided as part of the class, then move into the lesson zones. The whole flow keeps you active, not waiting around.

Ninja training starts with Kuji-In meditation (and why it matters)

A big part of the ninja portion is Kuji-In, a meditation and stance practice often used as a mental focus in martial traditions. In plain terms, this is where the class teaches you to slow down your thinking, then move with control.

Here is why you should care: when you later throw shuriken or coordinate breath and motion for sword drills, it is easier if you have a calm body and a clear routine. Meditation is not just an add-on. It is the setup.

During this segment, your instructor teaches the spirits and techniques behind ninja practice, then guides you through the steps. You do not need prior experience. The point is to understand the idea, then try it in a guided way.

You may also get a fun introduction related to a ninja trick house gimmick. Even if it sounds playful, it usually serves a purpose: it gets you thinking like a ninja, not like a tourist watching from the sidelines.

Real ninja tools: sword, shuriken, and blow darts

After the mindset practice, you move into hands-on ninja training. Based on what is included, you will cover:

• Ninja weapon and tool introductions
• Ninja sword demonstration and training
• Shuriken (ninja star) training
• Ninja blowgun training with blow darts

You should expect target drills for the throwing and dart work. That is the fastest way to learn because the instructor can correct what matters most: stance, release timing, and where your body is facing.

A few points that help you enjoy this more:

• Forget perfection. The learning curve is part of the fun. Many people are surprised at how quickly you pick up basic rhythm once you are doing it under coaching.
• Follow grip and safety cues closely. Since you are handling weapons and throwing star props, the instructor rules are there for a reason. Listen first, then act.
• Move with the drill. Some people report that the class involves running or jumping elements, so wear clothing that lets you move and shoes that feel stable.

Instructors are also described as funny and patient, and that helps when you are switching from meditation to high-energy throwing within minutes.

Samurai sword practice: drawing, swinging, and a short performance

Then the class shifts gears into samurai training. This is where you learn the samurai sword fundamentals, including how to draw and how to use it.

A detail I like in the way this lesson is described is the emphasis on difference, not just repetition. You practice ninja and samurai spirits and techniques, and you also learn how the weapons and methods differ. That makes it more educational than a single generic sword routine.

You will:

• Learn how to use and draw the sword
• Watch and practice a samurai performance built around what you learn

That performance part is key for value. It turns technique into a sequence. Instead of learning a move in isolation, you build a small routine you can actually demonstrate. It is also a great moment for photos and videos, because you are not just holding the sword, you are doing the thing you were taught.

One more practical note: dress rehearsal beats guesswork. If you get a correction on your grip or angle, take it seriously. Tiny changes make a big difference in how the blade movement looks and feels.

The instructors: what you can learn from Hyoga, Onel, Asami, and Buddy

The class is led by Japanese masters who teach in English. Names that appear in instructor reports include Hyoga sensei, Onel, Asami, and Buddy. Even though you may not know which instructor you will get until closer to your date, the teaching style is consistently described as:

• Clear and English-friendly directions
• Hands-on coaching, not just explanation
• Humor and patience that reduce awkwardness

If you are traveling with kids, this matters. Several reports mention families with ages spanning into teen years and older adults all participating comfortably. In other words, this is not only for people who grew up training.

If you are worried about looking foolish, do not be. The class is set up to help you correct and improve quickly, and the small group size means you get attention without embarrassment.

Price and value: is $86.22 worth it?

At $86.22 per person for about two hours, you are paying for three things that usually cost extra elsewhere in Tokyo: expert instruction, equipment support, and structured practice with multiple weapon categories.

Here is why the value makes sense:

• Small group max six means more coaching time than a big group workshop.
• Ninja clothes rental is included, so you do not need to plan a costume.
• You get training in several modules: Kuji-In, ninja tools, shuriken, blow darts, then samurai sword drawing and use.
• You are not only watching a demonstration. You handle, throw, and practice.

Is it expensive compared with a casual activity? Yes. But if you want a hands-on skill lesson with actual weapon drills and a samurai segment, this price feels more like a class fee than a ticket for entertainment.

Also, the best part for value is the contrast. You leave feeling like you learned something real, plus you have a full sequence you practiced. That combination is what people remember long after the photos fade.

Who this works for (and who should consider another option)

This experience fits well if you want:

• An active, hands-on class
• A small group rather than a crowded tour
• A mix of cultural context and practical drills
• The chance to learn both ninja and samurai elements

It can also work for mixed groups. Reports mention combinations like couples and families, and the lesson is described as suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.

Consider another option if:

• You do not handle stairs well, especially since the building may require multiple flights and the elevator may be unreliable.
• You have a hard time with quick movement. Some drills involve running or jumping.
• Weather is a major concern for you. The class requires good weather, and if it is canceled, you get a reschedule or a full refund.

What to bring and how to get the most out of the session

You are not required to bring equipment, since ninja clothes rental is included. But you should still plan for the basics.

Bring:

• Comfortable clothes that let you move
• Stable shoes for active drills
• Your mobile ticket accessible on your phone
• Water, since bottled water is not included

And the mindset:

• Treat corrections like coaching, not criticism.
• Focus on one step at a time. The lesson moves through different weapons quickly.

If you like capturing the moment, plan to record on your phone or camera. People consistently mention wanting to document the experience.

Should you book Ninja Samurai in Tokyo?

If you want a hands-on class with real weapon practice, a small group, and English instruction from Japanese masters, I think this is an easy yes. The $86.22 price becomes easier to justify once you see you are doing multiple ninja modules plus a samurai sword segment in a single two-hour session.

I would hold off only if stairs are an issue for you or if you are not comfortable with active drills and the good-weather requirement. Otherwise, book it, arrive a bit early, and let the instructor guide you. Two hours later, you will have a skill sequence you practiced, not just a story you heard.

FAQ

How long is the Ninja Samurai lesson?

The class runs about 2 hours.

What is the group size?

The group size is limited to a maximum of six travelers.

What language is the lesson taught in?

The lesson is taught in English by the Japanese sensei master.

What is included in the price?

Included items are Japanese sensei master instruction in English, ninja clothes rental during training, and the admission fee.

What ninja and samurai skills will I learn?

You learn ninja meditation (Kuji-In), ninja weapon and tool introductions, ninja sword training, shuriken training, and ninja blowgun (blow darts) training. You also learn samurai techniques with a Japanese samurai sword, including how to draw and use the sword, plus you practice a samurai performance.

Where do I meet the group?

Meet at Ninja Samurai Tokyo, 135-0052 Tokyo, Koto City, Shiomi, 2-chōme 39 Bayfrere Shiomi, EAST 4階.

Is bottled water included?

No, bottled water is not included.

Is private transportation included?

No, private transportation is not included.

What if the weather is bad or the minimum number of travelers is not met?

The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. If canceled because the minimum number of travelers is not met, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid will not be refunded.