1. Kyoto: Samurai Kenbu Show, a Traditional Sword Dancing
Journey back in time more than 700 years to Japan's feudal period and see a sword dance that celebrates the legendary Samurai warriors through grace, beauty, and power. Arrive at the Samurai Kenbu Theater and take off your shoes in accordance with the local traditions. Take your seat to listen to a performer narrate an informative introduction about the history and techniques of Kenbu. Watch a series of Kenbu demonstrations, each with a short history lesson about Samurai culture between the 12th and 19th centuries. Admire traditional and new-style Kenbu rituals, each involving a performer who will brandish their sword in a series of intricate movements while reciting Samurai poems used before heading to the battlefield. See the techniques used with the folding fan, too. After the show, when the performers return, take out your camera and capture the heroism of the samurai. You will go on stage in groups and be photographed with the samurai. The mini-experience begins. Pick up a sword, slowly pull out the scabbard and grasp the blade. At the instructor's command, swing the sword gently at first, then gradually and more forcefully. You can also shout out loud. If there is time, you will also have the opportunity to learn how to use a fan, a necessity for a samurai. Finish your immersion into Samurai culture with a photo with the sword.