Samurai Kembu Theater

SAMURAI PRECISION & AGILITY + CULTURE!

What a fantastic experience! The lesson started with Hoga, our instructor, who explained that Kembu means "sword dance". He then demonstrated the technique of handling the Katana (sword) which was safe to use as it wasn't sharpened. We learned a variety of moves from removing the sword from its sheath and reinserting it - a very precise maneuver. He then explained the historical background of the Samurai and its purpose and informed us that to show that a Samurai does not wish to create the impression that he's a threat, he walks with his elbows out from the torso - indicating that there is no reason to be feared. We then donned our costumes for the photo session. Following the photo session, we were joined by Ryu (another instructor). Both Hoga and Ryu performed an awesome presentation. I wish we could have recorded them as it was an exciting and impressive show requiring a tremendous amount of precision and agility. Arrangements for our 2 hour private visit was made through our travel agent so I'm unable to tell you the cost but it was worth every penny. This was a look into a cultural part of Japan providing us with some insight on its history. So glad we had this experience.

An Absolute Must

I cannot rave enough about our experience at this theater. We received an education about using a samurai sword and about the artistry and dance of kenbu. We watched a demonstration by two masters. And then we received a class in using the swords ourselves! To our surprise, they helped us dress in traditional costume for kenbu, which made all of us feel incredible, and then taught us so much of their basics. They incorporated chances to take photos or videos into the lesson, so that we could all get the incredible shots we wanted without it taking away from the lesson. All of this took just 90 minutes, and at the end, they gave us two free souvenirs (I won't spoil them!) to take home with us, none of which we expected. All of the instructors were incredibly kind and friendly, and none of us will ever forget our lesson!

Must-do Authentic Experience!

Excellent lesson (60mins), which teaches you how to handle the katana and the history behind samurai performance art. The instructors are patient, friendly and are fun with the lesson too! Great English to talk us through it all too. The 30 minute show at the end of the lesson really brings home how much skill this art takes - very informative and entertaining. A must do - worth the money for sure! One of the best experiences I've had in Japan!

Kyoto's Samurai culture

Original Text

We stayed in Kyoto for a short time so we wanted to try and participate in activities related to samurai. I found information about samurai sword dance theater online. We bought tickets for the sword dance experience. The show was entertaining and educational, and the performers introduced us in English to the relevance of the various equipment and the spirit of samurai. The course also showed us a lot of photos of samurai and allowed us to try some actions using samurai. If you are going to Kyoto, I highly recommend this event.

Show great. Pay for practical training

Original Text

It was a wonderful performance. It was exciting to see the Samurai culture show and the serious performances of the actors. It was great to see the actors take pride in their performance and put themselves into their art. The practical training was great too. I highly recommend this show.