Samurai Training with the Modern-day Musashi

Why Choose Yushinkan?

1. A Real Working Dojo — Not a Tourist Set

Yushinkan is not a stage built for tourists. It is an active dojo where more than 20 serious students train regularly. When you step inside, you enter a living tradition — not a re-enactment.

2. Trained by the Modern-day Musashi

Yushin-sensei is renowned for his mastery of nito — the legendary two-sword style of Miyamoto Musashi. He has trained with the katana since the age of twelve and represents three generations of his family’s sword practice. With over 50 students nationwide and 20+ years of training experience, he brings a depth that few other instructors in Kyoto can match.

3. Real Katana, Practiced Safely

You will hold and practice with authentic Japanese katanas — not plastic props or imitation training swords. Foundational sword movements (suburi) are practiced by every participant under expert supervision. Cutting demonstrations (tameshigiri) are performed by our master instructors only, ensuring an authentic experience that respects both Japanese tradition and the law.

4. Small Groups (Maximum 9), English Instruction

Each session is limited to nine participants for personal, individual attention. English instruction is provided by Yushin, Jordan, and Ken — so you can fully focus on the experience without language barriers. Whether you are completely new or already familiar with martial arts, you receive direct guidance suited to your level.

A Lineage Rooted in Yagyu Shinkage-ryu

Yushin-Ryu (勇進流) traces its roots to the Edo Yagyu Shinkage-ryu, founded by Yagyu Tajima-no-Kami Munenori — one of the most legendary swordsmen in Japanese history. Although the main Yagyu line eventually moved away from the path of the sword, his disciples preserved this tradition through the centuries.

At Yushinkan Kyoto, we continue this preservation today, training in the three foundational sword arts: Iaijutsu (the art of drawing the sword), Kenjutsu (swordsmanship), and Tameshigiri (the art of test cutting).

Our name comes from Yumo Maishin (勇猛邁進) — meaning “to advance with courage and resolve.” This is the spirit we bring to every session: not merely teaching forms (kata), but cultivating real technique that can actually cut, alongside the etiquette, harmony, and gratitude that have defined the way of the samurai for generations.

Step into our Kyoto dojo, and you step into a tradition whose line traces back centuries — guided by instructors who have dedicated their lives to its preservation.

Your 90-Minute Experience

1. Welcome & Cultural Briefing — Arrive at our central Kyoto dojo. We introduce you to the history of the samurai, the philosophy behind the katana, and what makes Yushin-Ryu distinct.
2. Get Dressed in Traditional Hakama — You will be helped into authentic training gear (Dōgi, Obi, and Hakama) — exactly as samurai students wear them. Multiple sizes and color options available.
3. Katana Handling Fundamentals — You receive a real Japanese katana. We teach proper grip, posture, the way of bowing to the sword, and the safety principles every samurai once learned.
4. Practice Authentic Kata — You learn one of the foundational kata (forms) of Yushin-Ryu — the same sequences that students of the school practice daily. Slow, correct, safe.
5. Witness the Master’s Demonstration — Yushin-sensei performs a live demonstration of advanced technique, including the nito two-sword style and tameshigiri (test cutting on tatami targets) — performed only by master instructors. This is the moment most guests describe as unforgettable.
6. Photos in Full Samurai Attire — The session closes with time for photos in your samurai gear, with the dojo and katana as your backdrop. We are happy to take your camera.

Pricing & Booking

Location & Access

Address: Super Grand Bld. B1F, 452-4 Matsugaecho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8034, Japan

How to find us: Look for a blue Japanese-style “torii” gate. You’ll see signs for our dojo next to a blue vending machine. The entrance is down a spiral staircase.

Important Information

• Confirmation is sent within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
• Maximum 9 participants per session
• Participants must be 12 years or older (please contact us for children under 12)
• Near public transportation — accessible from major Kyoto stations
• Not wheelchair accessible (entrance is via a spiral staircase)
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical concerns
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Frequently Asked Questions