Diana Farah

AIZU-WAKAMATSU, Fukushima: Imagine stepping back in time, where the echoes of samurai warriors still whisper through the streets of Aizu City. Nestled in the heart of Fukushima Prefecture, Aizu is a place where Japan’s storied past comes vividly to life.

As the morning mist lifts from the ancient castle grounds, the air is filled with a sense of honor, discipline, and resilience—a living echo of the samurai spirit that once defined this land.

In Aizu, the ‘way of the warrior’ isn’t confined to history books; it’s brought to life through immersive experiences that allow you to walk in the footsteps of legendary samurai. From donning traditional samurai clothing to learning swordsmanship, every moment offers not just a glimpse into an ancient era but an opportunity to embody its principles.

The Art of Samurai

At the heart of this experience is Tetsuro Shimaguchi, a master swordsman renowned for his choreographed sword fight in Kill Bill.

Shimaguchi has developed a unique method known as KENGIDO, blending swordsmanship with the spiritual and artistic traditions of the samurai way of life.

Now, he brings this art form to Aizu-Wakamatsu, where visitors can experience the thrill of supervised sword fighting and participate in a choreographed fight scene.

Aizu-Wakamatsu is just three and a half hours from Tokyo Station, and once you arrive, a journey through the city’s history awaits. Explore the samurai residences, stroll around Tsurugajo Castle, or visit the sacred Hanitsu Shrine to get a taste of the rich traditions that still resonate in this region.

While samurai warriors no longer roam the streets, the honor of their way of life continues to shape Aizu’s culture and pride.

The Samurai Experience

Once you’ve immersed yourself in the history of the samurai, head to the traditional Japanese inn, Ookawaso, where your samurai training begins. In a spacious dojo, Master Shimaguchi and his samurai artists will guide you through the steps it takes to become a master warrior.

You’ll even get to see a special performance by Master Shimaguchi himself, offering a preview of what’s to come.

It may look like a tough act to follow, but the practice is more accessible than it seems. While it requires strength and focus, the experience is designed to be fun and rewarding.

Donning full samurai attire, you’ll learn techniques and swordsmanship—and even get to hold a centuries-old sword.

While the training swords are safe and secure, the satisfaction of battling in your own choreographed fight scene, with a professional artist playing your ‘enemy,’ will leave you feeling like a true samurai.

“The whole point of this experience is to really teach people about samurai spirit and history,” Shimaguchi told Arab News Japan. “When visitors can actually experience the way of the samurai, they get a whole new learning experience.”

He’s quick to emphasize that he is a “Samurai artist,” not an actual samurai fighter, but that the traditions and honor of the samurai way are at the core of what he teaches.

Why Aizu?

Aizu-Wakamatsu offers more than just a chance to learn swordsmanship—it’s an opportunity to step into a living, breathing piece of history. For those seeking to live like a samurai, there’s no better place than Aizu. Meet Tetsuro Shimaguchi, learn from the masters and experience a way of life that has shaped Japan for centuries.

A Growing Interest in Japan

A 2019 YouGov study commissioned by Arab News found that more than 80 percent of UAE respondents expressed interest in visiting Japan, with 74 percent eager to see its world heritage sites. Nearly half of those surveyed—46 percent—were especially interested in experiencing Japanese traditional arts. With experiences like this one, it’s no wonder Japan continues to captivate the imaginations of travelers across the globe.

If you’re ready to live the way a samurai lived, immerse yourself in centuries of history and train with a true samurai artist, a trip to Aizu-Wakamatsu awaits.