Retrace the history of samurai traditions

The samurai are some of the most famous figures in Japanese history. Throughout the country's various eras, they were warriors, mercenaries, and lords. The best known are the samurai from the Edo period (1603 – 1868), inspired by the Tokugawa shoguns. They strictly abided to bushido, the honor codes that continue to influence Japanese culture to this day.

To learn more, visit the Tokugawa Art Museum in Nagoya, where you can admire over 10,000 items that range from works of art to katanas and armor. As you follow in the footsteps of the samurai, the next stop is the town of Kanazawa. Here, you can explore the Nagamachi samurai district, where one of the country's most powerful warlords housed his warriors.

The district's clay and stone walls have been preserved for centuries, but it's the splendor of Nomura Samurai House that's sure to take your breath away. This was the home of one of the most significant samurai families, and you'll learn all about the warriors' way of life as you move through the refined architecture of its various rooms.

If you've always dreamed of becoming a samurai yourself, don't miss a visit to the last katana swordsmith in Osaka. You can also contact one of our local agencies, who will be happy to organize a lesson in samurai combat techniques for you in Kyoto.