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2024.01.29

About the SAMURAI

Samurai Warfare and Military Organization in Japan’s Feudal Era

Discover how samurai fought — from the organization of troops and spear formations to the rise of firearms and the strategic role of castles across feudal Japan. 1. From Individual Combat to Organized Warfare Early samurai of the Kamakura period valued individual duels, announcing their names before engaging in battle. However, by the Sengoku (Warring States) era, warfare evolved into large-scale conflicts involving thousands of soldiers. Team coordination and command systems became the keys to victory, replacing single combat heroism. Military success depended on the combination of troops, terrain, and leadership — principles that reflected the teachings of Sun Tzu’s Art of War and formed the basis of Japanese strategy. […]

About the SAMURAI

Samurai Life and Japan’s Feudal Class System (House, Stipends, and Lord–Vassal Bonds)

Learn how samurai in Japan actually lived: their household structure, how they were paid in stipends (koku), and how loyalty to one’s lord shaped the entire social order. 1. Samurai at the Top of the Social Order During the Edo period, Japanese society was often explained with the formula “shi-nō-kō-shō” — warriors, farmers, artisans, and merchants. Samurai stood at the top not because they were richest, but because they were responsible for governing and protecting the land. Their status was guaranteed by the ruling clan or the shogunate, and unlike farmers or townspeople, a samurai’s position was tied to his house (ie). In other words, being a samurai was not […]

About the SAMURAI

Group Japanese Cultural Experiences in Tokyo (Samurai, Taiko, Calligraphy, Kimono)

Planning a group trip to Tokyo and looking for authentic Japanese cultural activities? Instead of contacting multiple venues one by one, you can let us coordinate everything for you. SYDO Inc. (operator of SAMURAI EXPERIENCE in Harajuku, Tokyo) can arrange samurai action lessons, taiko drumming, calligraphy, kimono dressing, origami workshops, and more for school trips, corporate team-building, and inbound group tours. Below is a sample lineup of cultural experiences we can organize for groups. All of them can be combined, customized, and supported in English. For inquiries and bookings, please use the contact form at the bottom. 1. Samurai Experience (Harajuku, Tokyo) This is our flagship program: a real samurai […]

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Samurai Weapons Beyond the Sword: Spears, Bows, and Matchlock Guns in Feudal Japan

When people think of the samurai, the katana often takes center stage. Yet on real battlefields, other weapons—particularly the yari (spear), naginata, yumi (bow), and tanegashima (matchlock gun)—played decisive roles. This guide explores how each weapon shaped samurai warfare, culture, and philosophy. 1) The Samurai Arsenal Was More Than a Sword The sword symbolized status and personal honor, but formations and tactics in medieval Japan relied on longer reach, unit coordination, and—eventually—firepower. Understanding these weapons reveals the strategic mind of the samurai and the evolution of Japanese warfare. 2) The Yari — Spear of Strategy and Reach How the Long Spear Changed Tactics As warfare shifted from one-on-one duels to […]

JAPANESE CULTURE

Winter in Tokyo 2025 | Complete Seasonal Travel Guide

Tokyo in winter is clear, crisp, and quietly beautiful. This complete seasonal guide gathers the city’s best cold-weather highlights—illuminations, comfort foods, snowy day trips, soothing hot springs, and warm indoor cultural experiences—so you can plan an unforgettable Tokyo winter. 1. Why Tokyo Is Magical in Winter With clear skies, sparkling night views, and fewer crowds, winter is one of the most rewarding times to explore Tokyo. From glowing avenues to steaming bowls of ramen and restorative onsen, the season invites you to slow down, savor, and experience Japanese culture more deeply. 2. Top 5 Winter Experiences in Tokyo 2.1 Winter Illuminations in Tokyo 2025 Stroll through Tokyo’s most dazzling light […]

Travel to Japan

Indoor Cultural Experiences in Tokyo Winter | Warm Up with Traditional Japanese Culture

1. Why Indoor Cultural Experiences Are Perfect for Tokyo’s Winter Tokyo winters can be chilly, with crisp air and early sunsets—but that’s exactly why indoor cultural experiences shine this season. Instead of braving the cold, visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese culture in warm, inviting spaces such as tea rooms, dojos, and art studios. For travelers from abroad, indoor experiences offer comfort, cultural depth, and memorable moments away from the crowds. Winter in Tokyo is the perfect time to slow down and embrace Japan’s traditions in a cozy setting. 2. Top Indoor Cultural Activities in Tokyo 2-1. Tea Ceremony (Sado) Experiences Warm up with a bowl of matcha and experience the […]

Travel to Japan

Tokyo Onsen Guide 2025: Best Hot Springs & Spas for a Cozy Winter

When the winter chill hits Tokyo, nothing beats thawing out in a steaming bath. From natural hot springs in the heart of the city to breathtaking open-air baths within a short day trip, this guide curates reliable, traveler-friendly options. All listings prioritize official English pages where available; otherwise, we reference trusted English resources. Japanese-only official pages are clearly noted. Quick Index 1) Spa LaQua (Tokyo Dome City) Urban natural hot spring with open-air baths, carbonated tubs, and stone sauna zones—right in central Tokyo. Why it’s perfect in winter Official / More info Spa LaQua – English Good to know 2) Niwa no Yu (Nerima) Adults-only (18+) garden spa featuring a […]

Travel to Japan

Where to See Snow Near Tokyo 2025 | Best Winter Getaways & Scenic Spots

Snowfall in central Tokyo is rare, but within just one to two hours by train, you can find breathtaking winter landscapes. From historic temples to ski resorts and hot springs, here are the best snow destinations near Tokyo for 2025 — plus a few world-famous spots worth the extra trip. 🏔 Nikko (Tochigi) — World Heritage & Winter Serenity Home to the UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine, Nikko is a perfect blend of history and nature. In winter, Oku-Nikko’s snowy landscapes — Lake Yunoko, Senjogahara marshlands, and Kegon Falls — offer quiet beauty and tranquility. Official site (Visit Nikko) 🏞 Hakone (Kanagawa) — Snow and Hot Springs Bliss Just 90 minutes from […]

Travel to Japan

Best Winter Foods in Tokyo 2025 | Ramen, Oden & Hot Pot Guide

When the air turns crisp, Tokyo’s comfort foods shine. From steaming bowls of ramen and soulful oden to hearty hot pots like chanko, sukiyaki, and shabu-shabu—this guide highlights where to warm up, what to order, and trusted spots with official links. Ramen — Tokyo’s Steaming Winter Essential Tokyo gathers every style—miso, shoyu, shio, tonkotsu, seafood. Most shops use a ticket machine; buy first, then queue. Peak hours see lines, but turnover is quick. Oden — Delicate Dashi, Deep Comfort Clear bonito–kombu broth slowly infuses daikon, eggs, konnyaku, fish cakes, and tofu. Order piece by piece or as a set. A winter classic that’s gentle and restorative. Hot Pots — Chanko, […]
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