Kyudo
Try your hand at Japanese archery in Kyoto
Japanese archery, known as kyudo, is an extremely popular martial art in Japan; most high schools have a kyudo club. The first images of archery in Japan date back to the Yayoi period (500BC - 300AD) but the practice really took off in the 12th century when it was adopted by samurai as part of their training.
InsideJapan are able to arrange a private kyudo lesson with a master archer during your time in Kyoto. His English is basic but his friendly nature and humour more than make up for it! By copying the instructors movements, you'll have a go at shooting arrows from a two metre long kyudo bow. An important part of kyudo is the ritual preparation of each shot in order to train your mind as much as your body.
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
Important notice: We are pleased to be able to offer so many amazing experiences in Japan. However, we are sorry that we can only include these as a part of a full Japan holiday package which includes your accommodation and transport alongside the experiences presented in this section of the web site.
Other Traditional sports experiences
View more >Ninja training school
Join an hour long lesson in the art of ninja espionage in a Kyoto dojo
Osaka sumo
Visit Osaka for the spring sumo tournament which takes place in the city's Nanba district
Tokyo sumo
The chance to experience all the excitement and ritual of Japan's oldest sport, sumo wrestling.
Iaido
Try this modern martial art drawing on traditional Japanese swordsmanship techniques.