Japan being an island, the country has close ties to the oceans and seas. And this connection is lived on through its fascinating aquariums (or 水族館, Suizokukan). If you’re planning a trip to Japan, be sure to visit some of Japan’s aquatic facilities to get up and close with its marine animals.

Below, I list the 9 best aquariums in Japan that you simply can’t miss!

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium | View on Klook

Heralded as the best and biggest aquarium in Japan and even in the world, Churami easily tops our list of must-visit Japan aquariums. It opened in 1979, and has been visited by 3 million people every year! While the aquarium boasts 75 tanks across 4 floors, its main attraction is its massive Kuroshio Tank housing numerous whale sharks. The aquarium also features hands-on exhibits of starfish and seashells, the world’s largest living coral exhibit, feedings, and animal shows.

Hakkeijima Sea Paradise | View on Klook

A leisure land surrounded by nature, this aquatic amusement park-on-an-island celebrates all manner of sea life. From walruses and polar bears to whale sharks and dolphins, you’ll have plenty to admire. The sea paradise also has restaurants, exhibitions, events, and activities—perfect for a family day out.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan | View on Klook

This aquarium is considered the second most spectacular in Japan after Okinawa’s Churaumi Aquarium, and is also one of the biggest aquariums in Japan – the official website even claims that “Osaka’s KAIYUKAN is the world’s largest aquarium”.

It houses over 470 species on eight different floors. All of these spiral a central tank, in which a whale shark swims. Here, you can explore diverse ecosystems, from the Ring of Fire to the icy Arctic, and marvel at penguins and jellyfish.

If you’re visiting Osaka with your family (and you should! Osaka is one of the best cities for traveling with kids), don’t miss the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel located just next to the aquarium to enjoy one of the best views of the city. Tickets for the Ferris wheel can be purchased on-site (900 yen).

Sumida Aquarium | View on Klook

Sumida Aquarium may not be the biggest in Tokyo, but it’s one of the best spots to watch fur seals and penguins live in their comfort.

The aquarium provides a humungous indoor tank for these animals, with over 350 tons of water in an open exhibit space. It is also home to 450 sea creatures of 50 different species—including stingrays and grey nurse sharks. Another one of its famous features is the aquarium’s interactive displays; looking through the Aqua Scope viewports stimulates a stunning underwater view.

Located on the 4th and 5th floor of Tokyo Skytree, it is easily accessible and can be combined with a visit to the tower’s 350m high observatory. Two penguins in one stone. Combo tickets can also be booked in advance on Klook.

Aquamarine Fukushima | View on TripAdvisor

If you’re seeking a memorable family weekend trip, Aquamarine Fukushima is where to head. After its reconstruction in 2011, it has welcomed visitors to its diverse display of marine life. The aquarium is home to over 800 species of marine creatures. It also provides fun experiences for the whole family, including fishing, feeding, and backyard tours.

You can purchase your tickets online but only on Asoview and JTB, but these two websites are in Japanese. You can also simply purchase your tickets on-site in person and avoid the headache of booking on a Japanese website. Admission costs 1,850 yen per adult and 900 yen for kids.

Enoshima Aquarium | View on Klook

Enoshima has been raising jellyfish for over 50 years, and it shows! The Enoshima Aquarium’s Jellyfish Fantasy Hall is like stepping into a living painting. Giant tanks are filled with glowing jellyfish—their mesmerizing movements swirling around you like underwater ballet. It’s relaxing and breathtaking at the same time. Additionally, the aquarium sits by the Sagami Bay, and places great focus on the local sea life nearby.

Tokyo Sea Life Park | View on TripAdvisor

This sea life park is hands-down the best aquarium in Tokyo—a landmark venue for all aquatic lovers. And it’s not just an aquarium; there are also other zoo animals visitors can befriend. The Oceanarium is home to a variety of fish, while the Tropical Forest features rainforest species (such as monkeys, gorillas, and frogs). Another exhibit is the Touch Pool, where you can touch some of the aquarium’s animals, such as starfish and sea urchins.

Tickets can be purchased on-site, and the admission cost is pretty low at 700 yen for adults, while kids under 12 can enter for free.

Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium | View on Klook

This destination is considered one the biggest aquariums in Japan (and it is the largest public aquarium), comprising two separate buildings. The North Building focuses on marine mammals like dolphins, orcas, and beluga whales, while the South Building houses the massive outdoor tank showcasing diverse marine life, a stunning coral reef exhibit, and a glimpse into the deep sea.

Kamogawa Sea World | View on Klook

Located in Chiba near Tokyo, this sprawling marine adventure park blends interactive experiences with educational exhibits. Here, visitors get to learn the importance of wildlife and environmental conservation through interaction with marine creatures. There are a variety of themed zones, including the Eco Aquarium, Tropical Island, and Rocky World. You will also get to see, feel, listen, and touch the marine animals.

As the aquarium is located between 2h30 to 3 hours by train from Tokyo, visiting it can be part of a 2-day trip in Chiba. I’d recommend spending the night in the park’s hotel Kamogawa Sea World Hotel as it boasts tatami rooms, sea views, and play spaces for kids. It makes for a relaxing getaway from Tokyo.

Final Words

Once you’ve chosen your preferred aquarium(s), be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time, and take your time to enjoy the exhibits (don’t rush!). With so many things to do and see in Japan, you might be tempted to pack your schedule as much as possible, but I find the best way to enjoy yourself is to relax, take your time, and go at your own pace. And even more so with aquariums!

If you’re visiting Japan and are a baseball fan, attending a game can be a cool addition to your trip. Baseball is the most popular sport in Japan, and Japanese people love it. The atmosphere in a Japanese stadium is something very unique, that I’d recommend trying at least once if you’re an avid supporter. Here’s your comprehensive guide on how to buy tickets to a baseball game in Japan.

Whichever cities you’ll be visiting, there are options to fit a game into your schedule. From purchasing tickets at the ballpark to navigating online sales, I’ll cover the essentials to help you plan your visit to a Japanese baseball game without the unnecessary drama.

Buying Tickets at the Ballpark

For many travelers, the simplest way to get baseball tickets is directly at the ballpark on the day of the game.

Most games are not sold out, with the exception of the season’s beginning and end for top-ranking teams.

This method is straightforward and adds an element of spontaneity to your trip. For example, for games starting at 6 PM, ticket windows typically open at 4 PM, allowing you to plan your day accordingly.

Buying Baseball Tickets Online

Buying tickets online is another convenient option. Visitors can successfully purchase tickets for teams directly from their official websites.

After buying, you’ll receive an email confirmation with a ticket code. This code can then be used to print your tickets at any 7-Eleven store in Japan, simplifying the process for foreign tourists who may face challenges with ticket purchases at the counter, or who simply want to plan ahead.

Here are the main Japanese baseball teams and their official websites where you can buy tickets:

The Experience at Various Japanese Stadiums

Each stadium offers a unique vibe and experience. I cannot talk about them all from experience, but here are the main ones in Tokyo and how easy or hard it is to secure tickets:

Tokyo Dome

Tokyo Dome is a huge stadium of 55,000 seats. The stadium is covered, making it a great choice under any weather condition. It is part of a larger complex called Tokyo Dome City, which has attractions, hotels, onsen, and a lot of other activities to enjoy.

Contrary to some beliefs, Tokyo Dome tickets are relatively easy to secure online, and games rarely sell out. This makes it an accessible option for those looking to catch a game of the Yomiuri Giants, one of Japan’s most popular teams.

Yokohama Stadium

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Yokohama can be a bit more challenging due to regular sell-outs. Planning ahead is key when aiming to experience a game here.

Meiji Jingu Stadium

The Swallows games, play in Meiji Jingu Stadium and are praised for their atmosphere. Tickets can also be bought online.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

• Consider Using a Service: For those looking to avoid any ticket-buying hassle, services like Japanballtickets offer a convenient albeit pricier alternative. They handle the purchase and can deliver tickets directly to your hotel, ensuring you don’t miss out on games that are likely to sell out.
• The Vibe: Baseball games in Japan are known for their enthusiastic crowds, unique cheering styles, and an overall atmosphere that differs significantly from U.S. games. It’s an immersive experience that goes beyond the sport itself.
• Plan Ahead for Popular Matches: If you’re aiming to see a match between high-demand teams like the Hanshin Tigers and the Yomiuri Giants, planning ahead is crucial. These games are highly sought after and embody the fierce rivalry and spirited fandom of Japanese baseball.

Final Words

Whether you decide to buy tickets online or at the ballpark, attending a baseball game in Japan is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique glimpse into the country’s culture and communal spirit. Each stadium has its charm, and with a little planning, you can easily find yourself immersed in the thrilling world of Japanese baseball. Don’t miss the chance to join the locals in cheering, singing, and experiencing the game in a way that only Japan can offer!

Japan has a word for ruins: haikyo. And some of the creepiest haikyo of the country are its abandoned amusement parks. Places where people used to gather to have fun are now sitting idle, slowly becoming overrun by nature. 

Each of these abandoned theme parks is weirdly unique. From the secret tunnels used by the staff to the control rooms for the merry-go-round, they let you see everything behind the veil. In this blog post, I share Japan’s top abandoned theme parks and how you can visit them. (Actually—is it even allowed to visit them? Keep reading to find out!)

If you think Nara Dreamland is going to be on our list of abandoned theme parks in Japan—it’s not. Unfortunately, this clone of Disneyland (even the maps are similar!) was demolished in 2016.

Western Village

Step back into the Wild West at this former park, located 2.5 hours from Tokyo. The park was built in 1975 as a place where people could enjoy cowboy-like activities. It features a Western saloon, jail, ghost house, shooting gallery, post office, actual fake Rio Grande, and vast Mexican barrens. 

However, the cowboy-themed park closed down in 2007 for supposed maintenance works—and never reopened after that. It is believed that its remote location could be the reason for shutting down. The perimeter fence of Western village has gaps, and the park often attracts urbex enthusiasts.

Niigata Russian Village

The most elaborate theme park, Niigata Russian Village, was opened in 1993 with the hope of fostering cultural exchange between Japan and Russia. Located near Niigata City, this was once a bizarre and ambitious theme park. However, it got shut down 6 months after it was renovated in 2002. 

Today, it makes for one heck of a place to explore. A large cathedral, a golf course, and a taxidermised woolly mammoth are a few of its intriguing features. But the hotel was recently set on fire, and no one knows how or why. Explorers back in the day also claim it was abandoned in a rush. Talk about spooky…

Kejonuma Leisure Land

Located in the grassy fields of Tohoku is Kejonuma Leisure Land. Once a hub of amusement for families, the park’s rusty remains are now overtaken by nature. It was opened in 1979, and later shut down in 2000. However, the owner technically didn’t abandon it—he’s reportedly looking for a buyer. 

Even today, everything is still intact with little vandalism. A Ferris wheel, go-kart track, golf course, train track, and teacup rides, can be seen rusting. There’s also an interesting myth (or is it reality?) about the park: it is built next to a pond where a woman committed suicide. I cannot think of a better location for an abandoned amusement park in Japan.

Arima Wanda Garden

Nestled in the Hyogo Prefecture is the Arima Wanda Garden: an amusement park for dogs. Sounds a little off, eh? I was also left with more questions than answers, too… Did the dogs go to the park for entertainment? Were you meant to bring them to the park? The entire situation is just a little disturbing, and ultimately led to the park closing down in 2008.

Features of the park included tracks for dog races, splash pools, dog-sized houses, and dog-shaped train rides. There was also a cinema (for dogs, really?!) and a restaurant serving both human and canine treats. Dog-less folks could even rent a dog and take it for a walk.

The canine amusement park now stands quiet and still…

Legality and Safety Risks of Visiting Abandoned Theme Parks in Japan

In Japan, trespassing on private property—even if abandoned—is illegal. Such violations can result in penalties, such as fines, community service, or even imprisonment. So is it legal to visit these abandoned theme parks in Japan? You understood already, but unfortunately, it is not.

Some abandoned amusement parks may also have security measures in place to prevent trespassing. For example, surveillance cameras, fences, and on-site security personnel.

It is also important to consider safety risks before visiting. These include uneven floors, broken structures, and potential wildlife encounters. And maybe… the animatronic figures that inhabit the space? Not that they’re sentient or anything—but hey, we can’t be too sure.

The Samurai sword—or katana—was once a symbol of prowess in feudal Japan. With their strong yet flexible curved steel blades, the swords were used by the Japanese Samurai. Even today, samurai sword-making uses the same labor-intensive way as centuries ago (not talking about the replicas made at a fraction of the cost!)

Keep reading as I share all about Samurai swords, their history, how they’re made—and the top sword-making experiences in Japan!

You might also like: 67 Unique Cultural and Traditional Things To Do in Japan

The History of Samurai Swords

Japanese swords, the iconic symbols of samurai culture, trace their origins back to the early Heian period, around 700 CE.

Initially, these blades were straight and influenced by Chinese and Korean designs. The transition to the classic curved katana occurred during the late Heian period, reflecting advancements in metallurgy and changing warfare tactics.

By the Kamakura period (1185-1333), the katana had evolved with a distinct curve, a sharper edge, and a longer blade, better suited for the samurai’s need for a quick and efficient draw in battle.

This evolution mirrored the rise of the samurai class, as these swords became the samurai’s version of a smartphone – always at their side. And well, also a symbol of their social status and warrior ethos.

Throughout the feudal era, especially during peaceful times, sword-making developed into a refined art form, with famous swordsmiths achieving legendary status. The katana remained a vital part of the samurai’s identity until the end of the Edo period in 1868, embodying both martial prowess and aesthetic beauty.

After the Edo period ended in 1868, the samurai class and their swords faced a bit of an identity crisis. The Meiji Restoration, with its rush towards modernization, meant that carrying swords became about as fashionable as wearing armor to a business meeting. By 1876, the Haitōrei Edict had samurai hanging up their katanas for good, relegating these weapons to ceremonial roles or, sadly, the attic.

How to Make a Samurai Sword

Samurai sword-making involves craftsmanship and attention to detail. And while the process may be labor-intensive, the end result is an artistic masterpiece!

1. Smelting

Swordsmiths and their assistants begin by using a clay furnace (tatara) to layer iron sand and pine charcoal for three days. During the process, temperature is controlled to allow high-carbon and low-carbon steel to separate. This step results in 2 tons of steel (kera)—divided into soft hocho-tetsu and hard tamahagane. The former is a flexible core, while the latter is used to make the sword’s razor-sharp edges.

The materials for the process are now ready to be transformed into a Samurai sword.

2. Forging and Folding

The swordsmith folds and hammers the steel up to 16 times (creating up to 30,000 layers!). Doing so spreads the carbon throughout the steel and draws out any impurities. It also lets you combine different kinds of steel—achieving a soft but flexible and sharp but brittle material. You may be surprised to know that after you forge katana, only one-tenth of the original mass is left.

Different folding methods, such as kobuse, honsanmai, and soshu kitae, are used to achieve varying blade characteristics. As an added bonus, folded steel looks super cool—and the patterns on the steel are unique to each sword. 

The sword prepared at this point is pretty much straight. This is because katana aren’t bent into their shape; they get their curve from heat treatment.

3. Heat Treatment

Next, you cool the sword by plunging it in water or oil. However, it’s not as simple as dipping it into the liquid. You have to cool different parts of the sword at different rates, called “differential heat treatment”. For the purpose, the swordsmith paints a clay mixture on the sword (covering the main blade but leaving the edge). He then quenches the sword in water at about 800ºC. This is a critical point, as one in three swords can be ruined at this point. Proper heat treatment results in the iconic katana curve—and the distinctive line along the sword, called the ‘hamon’.

4. Polishing

The final step, polishing, is done by a specialist using seven different stones—and taking over up to a month for a single blade. The cost for museum pieces can be significant, up to $1,000 per inch of blade. Fittings, such as the scabbard and handle, are also typically made by a different craftsman. However, these are not considered as important in Japanese culture; in the museum, you’ll usually just see the blade displayed.

The State of Katana-Making Nowadays

Today, the art of Japanese sword-making is far from extinct. It’s like the vinyl record of weaponry: classic, revered, and in the midst of a cultural comeback. These swords are no longer tools of war but rather works of art, meticulously crafted by master swordsmiths, known as ‘tosho’, who spend decades honing their skills. In today’s Japan, there are around 300 of them, but only a few can live from swordsmithing only.

The path to becoming a master swordsmith is long and arduous, often exceeding a decade of rigorous training. This ensures that every aspect of the sword-making process is executed with skills and precision.

Today, katanas are made for martial artists and enthusiasts who value the craftsmanship and historical significance behind each blade, with prices ranging in the tens of thousands of US dollars.

Best Sword-Making Experiences in Japan Today

When traveling to Japan, it’s possible to meet, observe, and learn from master swordsmiths. Prices can be high, but with such a deep history and only a few hundred active swordsmiths, we can understand why. So is it worth it? If you’re interested in this craft, I’d say yes, absolutely.

Below, I listed the best place to experience sword-making in Tokyo, and the best one in Kyoto:

The best part of this kind of experiences is to be able to converse and learn from some of the only Japanese master swordsmiths still in activity, carrying on their shoulders the weight of hundreds of years of skill honing and history. This is a unique chance to meet those masters for those interested in sword-making.

If the price is too high for you but you’re looking for a similar experience, you can check my guide on the best workshops to make your own knife in Japan. This type of experience is usually more affordable, and although you won’t learn about swords, you will still forge your own knife under the instructions of a master swordsmith.

For those who want to see the crazy side of Tokyo, this is the perfect attraction. The Samurai Restaurant in Shinjuku (not to be confused with the Samurai Rock Restaurant located in Akihabara) opened in October 2023. It serves up flashy martial arts theatrics along with your meal, giving you a unique experience even for Tokyo’s standards.

But what if I told you it’s not a new attraction? In fact, it has been around for many years, just with a different name. Read on to learn what I mean—plus where to find cheap Samurai Restaurant tickets (spoiler: It’s not their official website).

What is the Samurai Restaurant?

Don’t be fooled by the name: the Samurai Restaurant in Shinjuku is not a restaurant. It’s a 2-hour experience where you enjoy the thrill of a flashy martial arts and acrobatics show. And if you’re hungry, you can have a simple meal to go along with it.

Where is the Samurai Restaurant Located?

The Samurai Restaurant is situated in the red-light district of Kabukicho, in Shinjuku. The show itself is suitable for people over 13 years of age. But because it is part of an adult entertainment establishment called GiraGiraGirls, it is ranked as an 18+ affair. 

What to Expect at the Samurai Restaurant Tokyo

A complete assault on the senses. A 2-hour long over-the-top, tacky show, with quirky costumes, Power Rangers-level fight scenes, and cheesy dialogues. But all of this, in the most exciting way. It is really one of the most entertaining shows in Tokyo.

The venue is rather small with a limited audience, so you will find yourself really close to the stage, and regularly have eye contact with the performers. It adds to the immersion and almost makes you feel like you are attending a private show.

The show is split into three ‘stories’, with two breaks of 15 minutes in between. While you can have a bathroom break during this time (I actually recommend you to have a bathroom break, as the throne room is as flashy as the rest of the establishment and with reflecting golden walls so that you can, well… look at yourself while doing your business), be sure to rush back and enjoy the lively interval demonstrations, too.

During the show, you will be seated on stools and booths in front of the stage. You’ll be encouraged to stay on your spot during the performance—if you’re immersed in the experience, you wouldn’t wanna move anyway.

Here is a video I made of my visit there:

What are the Show Timings?

The Samurai Restaurant has a morning show at 10:30am, an early afternoon show at 1:30pm, and a late afternoon show at 4pm. They run shows daily, although some days might only have two shows instead of three. Before the show, you will have to wait for 30 minutes while enjoying some entertainment until the real theatrics start. The show itself lasts around 1 hour 40 minutes, so you should be out of the venue 2 hours 10 minutes after entering.

Food and Drinks at the Samurai Restaurant

You’re not coming here for a Michelin-starred meal, but of course, you’ll still get something to munch on during the show. Your ticket originally includes either a bento meal or a set of two drinks. The bento has options to choose from: steak, sushi, appetizer, ramen, or udon noodles.

And to my surprise, the food was actually decent. Portions might be a bit small, but the shows are in the morning or in the afternoon anyway so you probably won’t be really hungry.

The drinks include a range of alcohol as well as soft drinks. Honestly, if you drink I’d recommend going for it. This show is pretty crazy, and the flashes and loud music make it a great place to have a few beers. Plus you’ll be out in Kabukicho in Shinjuku by around 6pm if you choose to go to the late afternoon (which I would definitely recommend). Sounds to me like the perfect occasion to head to a nearby bar and keep the night going until late.

You can also choose to pay separately for snacks from their English-language menu. If you’re vegetarian, they have popcorn and mochi on their menu.

However, note that you’d need to book your ticket at least one day in advance to choose a bento. If you book late, you can choose from one of: ramen, udon, or a pair of drinks.

How to Find Cheap Tickets for the Samurai Restaurant

Looking for a Samurai Restaurant Tokyo reservation? Morning tickets cost ¥8,000 and afternoon’s are ¥10,000.

You may consider booking tickets on their official website. But the UX is absolutely terrible and their cancellation policy isn’t customer friendly with no refund (although you can choose the option to pay at the door) nor modifications allowed. So instead, I’d recommend booking with a booking platform:

• GetYourGuide offers tickets for the Samurai Restaurant, at the same price as the official website. Their cancellation policy allow you to cancel 24 hours before the show and get a full a refund.
• Rakuten Travel Experiences offers discounted morning tickets priced at ¥6,800 (15% off). They do offer discounted afternoon tickets, but only at 2% off, at ¥9,800. Note that the discount might vary depending on the season (high travel seasons like March and April usually have lower discount rates). Rakuten’s cancellation policy allows you for a full refund if you cancel up to 48 hours before the show.

But… What Happened to the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku?

Ok, here comes the story time. You might have heard about Tokyo’s “Robot Restaurant”. It also went by the unofficial names Robot Cafe, Robot Bar, Robot Show, you name it. This was one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo and even Japan. But the clientele was almost exclusively international tourists.

So it won’t surprise you that soon after COVID-19 started and Japan closed its border to foreign visitors, the establishment closed down indefinitely.

Well, indefinitely until the managing company (the same people managing GiraGiraGirls) decided to re-launch the show in June 2023, keeping the name Robot Restaurant, but using a scene on a different floor of the same building where Robot Restaurant was. New show, new performers, a few new machines, but the same vibe.

And here is the funny part. After some successful pre-shows with the press and business partners, on the day of the opening to the public… one of the central mechanical pieces of the scene broke down.

And Robot Restaurant had to once again close its doors for repair. But they actually used this time to change the show again and re-brand it as “Samurai Restaurant”, which they reopened in October 2023.

Things To Do Around After The Samurai Restaurant

After a crazy ride at the Samurai Restaurant, you’ll probably be left hanging for some party time. The good news is, you’re in the perfect area for this. It is filled with bars, izakaya, attractions, and other naughty establishments (we’re in Kabukicho after all, the red-light district of Tokyo).

Beyond the naughty connotations of Kabukicho, there are plenty of great nearby places to visit to after the Samurai Restaurant.

You can check out the newly built Kabukicho Tower, enjoy a drink at the famous Golden Gai district, or try your luck at a Pachinko parlor to stay in the flashy and noisy theme. And if you’re a shopaholic, Don Quijote is where to head.

So, once you’re done with your show at the Samurai Restaurant Tokyo… you know where to head next! (And next, and next.)

The Bottom Line

I went two times to Samurai Restaurant: the first time before COVID-19 when it was still a Robot Restaurant, and a second time after its reopening in 2023. And I have to say, I had a blast each time. This might not be the most family-friendly place – although kids and teenagers would probably enjoy all the craziness – and anyway it’s at the moment strictly for over 18s due to the GiraGiraGirls bar, but it’s a must-visit for those who want to taste a bit of this WTF Tokyo vibe you’ve heard so much about.

If you’re a fan of horseback riding and Japanese culture, you’ve probably heard of yabusame—Japan’s traditional horseback archery. While you can watch it at various events across the country, finding an opportunity to try it yourself can be quite challenging. Luckily, working in the Japan travel industry I’ve come across a few high-quality experiences, which I’ll share below. But first, let me tell you more about yabusame and its place in modern Japan.

What Is Yabusame?

Yabusame is a form of Japanese horseback archery where riders shoot arrows at wooden targets while galloping on a straight track. It requires exceptional skill in both riding and archery, as riders must maintain their balance and accuracy at high speeds.

Japanese mounted archery is usually featured in festivals and Shinto rituals all across Japan. This is because yabusame has both a spiritual and cultural side; see more below.

The History of Japanese Horse Archery

This practice originated during Japan’s early history, with its roots tracing back to the 6th century. At that time, Emperor Kinmei introduced it as a ritual to pray for peace and agricultural prosperity. By the Heian period (794–1185), yabusame was a part of samurai training, serving both as a martial exercise and a ceremonial practice tied to Shinto beliefs.

By the Kamakura period (1185–1333), yabusame had become a highly formalized tradition, with prominent schools like the Ogasawara and Takeda styles emerging. These schools helped codify techniques and etiquette, preserving the practice as both a martial art and a ritual.

The popularity of yabusame fluctuated over the centuries. During the Edo period (1603–1868), it experienced a significant revival under shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune, who encouraged samurai to practice it as a way to uphold their discipline and traditions. However, with the introduction of firearms and the decline of mounted archery in warfare, yabusame gradually fell out of practical use.

Despite this, the tradition has continued to be passed down and is still actively performed across Japan, mainly becoming an attraction for both local and international audiences.

How Yabusame Is Performed Today

In modern yabusame events, archers dressed in traditional attire ride along a track about 218 meters long, shooting at three targets positioned at equal distances. The targets, typically made of wood, are placed at a height of around two meters.

Riders use specialized arrows called kaburaya, which produce a distinctive whistling sound as they fly. The performance is not just about hitting the targets, but also emphasizes form, timing, and maintaining balance on the horse. Riders often chant as they release their arrows, adding a dynamic and ceremonial element to the event.

Yabusame continues to thrive in modern Japan, primarily as part of festivals and ceremonies held at shrines like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in Kamakura and Nikko Toshogu in Tochigi. While it has kept its historical and ritualistic elements, some groups have developed competitive versions, referred to as “sports yabusame,” making it more accessible to a wider audience.

Where to Book a Yabusame Experience in Japan

I’ve been working in the Japan travel industry since 2019, and in my experience, yabusame isn’t very popular with visitors. One reason is that you need to travel to the countryside to try it. Another is that, while not required, some horseback riding or archery experience can help you get the most out of it. That said, there are some fantastic experiences available in English, which I’ve listed below:

*Please note that the prices quoted are as mentioned at the time of publishing. They may vary depending on when you book the experience.

Personally, I highly recommend Wabunka’s yabusame experience. Wabunka offers the most authentic Japanese cultural experiences available. All their activities are top-notch, held in fantastic venues, and led by exceptional instructors (which explains the higher price range compared to other booking platforms). Full disclosure: I know Wabunka personally, as I’ve worked with them through my role in the Japan travel industry. This is why I can confidently vouch for their professionalism and dedication to providing the best possible experiences for their customers.

The Bottom Line

Yabusame is one of these “only in Japan” experiences. I highly recommend it if you already have experience in horseback riding and/or archery. If you’re new to both, you’ll likely still enjoy yourself, but you might not be able to achieve much in the span of one lesson. In that case, you might want to explore other options for experiencing authentic Japanese culture. That said, yabusame experiences take you beyond the big cities and into the Japanese countryside, which is something I highly suggest including in your Japan itinerary.