Samurai existed in Japan from the medieval to the early modern era. They mastered swordsmanship and other martial arts to protect their lords, families, and themselves, while also cultivating cultural practices such as etiquette and the tea ceremony, placing great importance on spiritual refinement. Their bravery, wisdom, and aesthetic sense have been passed down through generations, giving rise to many cultures, traditions, and philosophies.
Satsuma Sendai City in Kagoshima Prefecture is a ‘town where samurai still alive,’ deeply rooted in the spirit of the Samurai of Satsuma. This samurai program offers an immersive experience into the lives and philosophies of the Samurai of Satsuma, including guided tours of armor workshops, armor dressing, iaido experiences, and samurai-themed dinners, allowing participants to deeply experience the way of life and philosophy of the Samurai of Satsuma.
Japanese traditional armor, known as “Katchu”, was meticulously crafted to protect samurai from enemy attacks during battles. These armors also expressed the beliefs and way of life of famous samurai throughout history, often featuring unique designs. Today, most Japanese armor is made in this region, including the kabuto (helmet) of Shohei Ohtani from the Los Angeles Angels, which was crafted in a workshop in Satsuma Sendai City.
This tour offers a guided view of the armor-making process by skilled artisans and an exhibition of various samurai armor, each reflecting the individuality of its owner.
This experience allows you to wear a premium replica of the armor worn by famous samurai. These special armors, which are usually not available to the public, can be worn exclusively during this tour. Choose your favorite armor design and experience the life of a real samurai.
Nitta Shrine is said to be a place where Samurai of Satsuma would visit before battles to pray for victory. Participate in a guided tour of the shrine and imagine the feelings of the samurai as you offer your own prayers.
Iaido is a Japanese martial art focusing on pulling and drawing with a sword. Its practice teaches methods to strengthen both body and mind. Concentrate your spirit and deeply immerse yourself in samurai culture.
Samurai cherished various forms of art and culture, with a particular affinity for the “way of tea” (tea ceremony). The Samurai of Satsuma’s love for tea culture also contributed to the development of the distinctive “Satsuma ware” pottery. Enjoy a tea ceremony using Satsuma ware in a samurai residence and appreciate the artistic culture of the samurai.
Savor a special Samurai-themed dinner featuring dishes loved by the Samurai of Satsuma and prepared with local ingredients. Experience the food culture that likely fueled the strength and courage of the mighty and brave Samurai of Satsuma.
Relax in the hot springs of this region, which are said to have been loved by the Samurai of Satsuma. Soak in the inn’s hot springs and recharge your energy.
Satsuma Samurai Spirit Tour in Satsuma Sendai City, Kagoshima Prefecture | ||
Departure Date | Use the form below to request Schedule | |
Duration | 3-day, 2-night package(2-day, 1-night package and Day-trip option are also available.) | |
Meals Included | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2 | |
Itinerary | Schedules | |
1 |
Meeting Point: JR Sendai Station (10:30) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Guided Tour of an Authentic Japanese Armor Workshop & Exhibition Hall (Approx. 75min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Lunch(Approx. 80min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Iaido Experience(Approx. 85min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Tea Ceremony Experience, Symbol of Samurai of Satsuma Art and Culture (Approx. 75min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Check-in at accommodation / Dinner / Enjoy the hot springs at the accommodation |
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2 |
“Breakfast / Departure from accommodation (10:00) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Visit to a Shrine Revered by Samurai of Satsuma (Approx. 60min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Lunch(Approx. 90min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Premium Japanese Traditional Armor Dressing Experience(Approx. 180min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Satsuma Samurai Dinner (Approx. 120min.) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Enjoy the hot springs at the accommodation” |
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3 |
“Breakfast / Check-out (09:30) | (Transportation by Jumbo Taxi) Return to JR Sendai Station: Approximately 10:00″ |
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Tour Charge | JPY 300,000 (including tax) per person | |
Includes | Transportation, lunch and dinner, tour guide, experience fees, facility usage, accommodation fee | |
Excludes | Transportation to/from meeting point, additional personal expenses | |
Payment | Confirm your booking with payment by credit card (Visa/Master) or bank transfer within 10 days. Details and invoice will be provided upon booking. | |
Alteration/Cancellation Policy |
The following charges will apply for any changes or cancellations made after the booking is confirmed: •20 days before: 20% of tour charges •7 days before: 30% of tour charges •1 day before: 40% of tour charges •Day of tour: 50% of tour charges •After tour starts or no show: 100% of tour charges |
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Minimum Number of Participants | 4 (tour may be canceled if this minimum is not met; full refund will be issued). | |
Participation conditions | Preschool children are not allowed to participate. | |
Booking Deadline | 14 days before the tour. | |
Terms & Conditions | Please review the terms and conditions before booking. Tour Terms and Conditions (Domestic) ご旅⾏条件書(国内募集型企画旅⾏) |
<By train
From Kagoshima Chuo to Sendai: 15 minutes by Sakura or Mizuho or Tsubame
From Kagoshima Chuo to Sendai: 55 minutes by local train
From Hakata to Sendai: 85 minutes by Sakura or Tsubame
Operating Hours: 10:30 – 19:30 (Closed on Saturday, Sunday and on National Holidays)
(For the messages received outside of the operating hours by mail, fax or post, they are regarded as received on the next business day.)
The above-mentioned “Domestic Travel Service Supervisor” is responsible for your travel. Please don’t hesitate to contact the service supervisor in case there is anything not clear with the details about the travel contract explained by the contact person.