Katana Camp

What to Expect at the Katana Camp by Akita Inaka School

Learn Japanese & Swordsmanship – Immersed in Nature
Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of rural Japan, this immersive 12-day program combines intensive Katana training with cultural experiences and language learning.

  • Daily Katana classes in the morning (2 hours/day)

  • Introduction to Budo – traditional Japanese martial arts (30 minutes/day)

  • Afternoon activities and nature-based experiences

  • Train in a traditional dojo, in the mountains, by waterfalls, or among rice fields – each setting offers a unique training atmosphere.

  • Optional Japanese or English lessons available (for an additional fee)

  • Stay in authentic Japanese homes, offering a warm, homestay-like experience.

Discover Japan Through Sword & Culture – Katana Camp by Akita Inaka School & Bugeido Musubi

Born from the unique collaboration between Akita Inaka School and the martial arts dojo Bugeido Musubi, this is likely Japan’s first and only Katana Camp!

Learn the art of Japanese sword fighting from Sensei Yashiro and Sensei Yui, who teach with passion, precision, and deep cultural understanding.

Train far from the hustle of the big cities – surrounded by the tranquil beauty of northern Japan. Whether in traditional dojos, lush rice paddies, mountain trails, or near waterfalls – every session is a memorable experience.

The instructors also grow organic vegetables, adding a grounded, holistic feel to the camp.

  • Open to all age groups

  • Instruction available in English and Japanese

  • Optional language classes to deepen your learning


Camp Curriculum:

  • 2 hours of Katana training each morning

  • 30 minutes of Budo (Japanese martial arts) instruction daily

  • Daily afternoon activities, aligned with the season

Meet your Sensei

sensei1 Katana Camp Japan

Sensei Yashiro

He dedicated himself to Kendo from a young age before starting a career in the performing arts. His diverse experience spans film, television, and stage – including sword fighting, stunts, dance, and musicals. Behind the scenes, he has also contributed to film production. Alongside his acting career, he has continued training in Kobudo, Japan’s classical martial arts.

sensei2 Katana Camp Japan

Sensei Yui

Yui began learning Kendo in middle school and later studied theater, including Method Acting and psychosomatic training. She has appeared on TV, in magazines, advertisements, and theater productions. While acting, she studied Kobudo under Sensei Yashiro. Together, they founded Bugeido MUSUBI, where she serves as performer, instructor, and representative.

dojo2 Katana Camp Japan

Course Dates

Samurai Training Summer Camp 2025

June 23 – July 04, 2025 (12 Days)

Samurai Training Winter Camp 2026

January 12 – January 23, 2026 (12 Days)

Sample Schedule

schedule katana camp Katana Camp Japan

The current planning for the course is sent to the participants approximately one month before the start of the course and contains activities adapted to the season.

Accommodation

Accommodation During the Katana Camp

Stay in the charming town of Kosaka, just minutes from nature and the school itself.

  • Choose between private or shared rooms

  • Sleep in traditional tatami rooms with futon bedding or opt for a cozy Western-style room

  • Free access to washing machines and dryers in every house

  • Bicycles available at all accommodation sites – perfect for exploring the local area

  • Spacious common areas – ideal for takoyaki parties, game nights, and socializing

  • Hotel rooms available on request for added privacy

Pricing

Course fees exclude flights, meals, and transportation within Japan.

Course Katana Camp 12 Days: 320.000 JPY (around 2000,00 USD)

Accommodation During the Course

  • Shared Room: ¥50,000 (~300USD)
    (maximum two people per room)

  • Private Room: ¥70,000 (~€430)

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Service (One-Way Pricing)

  • Personal airport pick-up and escort from Haneda Airport (HND): Limited availability, price upon request

  • Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ): 5,000 JPY

  • Aomori Airport (AOJ): 9,000 JPY

  • Shin-Aomori Station (via Shinkansen): 9,000 JPY

Living costs in rural Japan are significantly lower than in the big cities. On average, you should budget around 1,500 JPY per day. Local supermarkets offer fresh, high-quality food at affordable prices, and there’s even a weekly market with regional produce. Lunch (bento box) can be ordered through the school for about 700 JPY, with a variety of delicious options. Generous portions at nearby ramen shops cost roughly the same.