【Kyoto Gion】Ninja Experience Cafe｜Change into Ninja Costume and Try Shuriken, Blowgun & Ninja Sword Training

In Gion, Kyoto, It All Begins With Putting On a Ninja Costume

The Ninja Experience Cafe in Gion, Kyoto, is an indoor entertainment cafe where you can change into a ninja costume and take on ninja training challenges. This group experience is offered in English and Japanese, and has earned a 4.9 rating (107 reviews) on the booking site.

On the day of your visit, you'll first check in and then change into your ninja costume. Since the costume is worn over your own clothes, getting changed is quick and easy—it's recommended to wear something easy to move in, like pants rather than a skirt.

The moment you put on the black outfit and headband marked with the character for "nin" (忍, ninja), your mood instantly shifts. From here, staff will guide you through three training challenges. You can check the details on this booking page.

First, Learn the Ninja Sword Stance With Scrolls and Blades

One of the training challenges is the ninja sword. Staff will show you how to hold and stance the sword, so even first-timers can strike the right pose.

The tatami-mat area is decorated with hanging scrolls and armor, so simply holding the sword creates a picture-perfect background. Adults and children alike learn the same stance, creating a moment for the whole family to hold a sword together.

For friends, a face-off pose with crossed swords is also recommended. Rather than an actual clash, it's all about striking a dramatic pose for photos—that's the style of this experience.

The Moment a Shuriken Sticks in the Target Is the Biggest Highlight

The next challenge is shuriken (throwing star) throwing. Staff teach you the knack of throwing, so instead of just using brute force, you get to experience the feeling of aiming and hitting your mark.

The moment a shuriken sticks into the target tends to spark the most excitement, and it's a popular highlight among participants. Compete for points with friends or family, and cheers naturally follow.

After throwing, strike a pose holding your shuriken for a photo. Staff will help with the shots, so you can capture a great picture of yourself fully in character as a ninja.

Steady Your Breath and Take Aim: Blowgun Training

The third challenge is the blowgun. Taking a deep breath, aiming carefully at the target, and blowing in one steady burst requires a different kind of focus than the shuriken throwing.

The venue has a corner lined with round targets, and there are also moments to try a Japanese bow (wakyu). Staff support you from behind, guiding your posture and hand position, so even beginners can quickly get the hang of it.

The quiet concentration of taking aim offers a nice contrast to the livelier shuriken throwing. When your carefully aimed shot finally reaches the target, that sense of accomplishment stays with you.

With a Meal Plan, Enjoy Ninja-Themed Food Too

After training, if you choose a plan that includes a meal, you can enjoy shuriken-shaped curry and other ninja-themed food and drinks. Plans without a meal are also available, so be sure to check what's included when booking.

The venue is dotted with ninja-house-style features and photo spots, so you can keep enjoying photos while still in costume. Whether it's a three-generation family or a group with young children, everyone lining up in matching costumes makes for a memorable photo.

The experience is suitable for all ages, and since it's held indoors, it's not affected by the weather—making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing in Gion.

Frequently Asked Questions

■ How long does the experience take? About one hour.

■ Do I need to bring anything? No special items are required.

■ Is there anything I should be careful about with clothing? The ninja costume is worn over your own clothes. Pants are recommended over skirts, so you can move around easily.

■ What kind of training will I experience? After changing into a ninja costume, you'll follow staff instructions through three challenges in order: shuriken, blowgun, and ninja sword.

Things to Check Before Booking

• The experience takes about 1 hour
• The ninja costume is worn over your own clothes
• Pants that are easy to move in are recommended
• No special items are required
• You'll try three challenges: shuriken, blowgun, and ninja sword
• Which plan you're booking (with or without a meal)
• Availability of Japanese and English support
• Cancellation and change policies
• The latest pricing and availability

Summary

This is an experience in Gion, Kyoto, where you change into a ninja costume and take on three training challenges: shuriken, blowgun, and ninja sword. Staff guide you step by step through each technique and its tips, so it's easy to join even if it's your first time trying anything ninja-related—perfect for families and friends of all ages to enjoy together.

The moment a shuriken sticks into the target is a particular highlight of this experience. Staff will help with photos and videos too, so you can keep the fun of fully becoming a ninja as a lasting travel memory.

This experience is a great fit for anyone who wants to do more than just observe Kyoto's culture—who wants to try it firsthand—and for those looking for an activity that friends and family can enjoy together with lots of excitement.