Tokyo · MARTIAL ARTS CLASSES
7 reviewed
Below are the 7 best martial arts classes in Tokyo right now — what each one costs, how long it takes, and which kind of traveller it suits. Start at number one; it’s top for a reason.
A real Kyudo (Japanese archery) session in an official Tokyo hall, with a DAN master, traditional uniform, and dozens of shooting tries.
“Absolutely loved the experience! The archery class is beginner friendly, and includes lots of time to practice shooting at targets. Instructor is friendly, patient, and encouraging.”
Train with Ryo, a Kyokushin karate 2nd Dan, in Asakusa. Bow, breathe, drill basics, and learn safe non-contact kumite.
“Since I was a kid I dreamt about the day I had the chance to experience karate in Japan. Thanks to Ryo I made that dream happen! Lesson starts with a nice warm up and then onto the great stuff! I am a black belt of Shotokan karate (different style of what Ryo practice) and so it was super interesting seeing how the two styles differ. Loved that from the REI at the start of the lesson you can feel the spirit of karate. Had so much fun and was good to be back in a karate lesson environment. I wish Ryo all the best, and 100% recommend experience when…”
Kyudo Japanese archery near Tokyo Station: dress in dōgi, shoot straw bales, and get coached technique in a small group lesson.
“Great fun. Instructor terrific. Suggest that future classes meet at gym instead & limit to 5 people.”
Try **kyudo** (Japanese archery) and **katana** sword basics in Asakusa, with samurai outfit, snacks, and lots of photos, all in 1 hour.
“It was soo much fun! Photos and videos look great! Would definitely recommend to everyone!”
Train in Tokyo’s modern Soshikan Dojo with English guidance, rent a gi, then unwind at an adjacent sake bar with included drinks and snacks.
90-min Shotokan karate class at SKIF HQ near Kugahara: strikes, kata, promise kumite, board breaking, photos.
“Ich hatte eine super Stunde mit Paul. Er ist auf meine Vorkenntnisse eingegangen und hat auf meinen Wunsch hin mir vor allem das Traditionelle Karate näher gebracht. Auch auf meine Fragen zu Techniken oder japanischen Begriffen konnte er super Erklärungen geben. Sehr zu empfehlen und ein tolles traditionelles Dojo in Japan.”
Tokyo kickboxing with ex-pro MMA fighter Kato Minoru. 1-hour beginner-friendly mitt drills and defense in Higashi-Ikebukuro, $39.
“The kickboxing lesson was intense and well-structured, focusing on technique, conditioning, and combinations. The instructor provided clear guidance, and the drills improved fitness.”
