We are Katanayaichi, and we gave a samurai performance at the Tuna Sushi and Wine Festival in Zadar, Croatia (April 11–12)!
Collaboration with a local Okinawan Karate team
In Zadar, we had a special collaboration with a local Okinawan Karate team. After our show, we held a 30-minute Samurai Experience Workshop for around 15 children who study karate.
The kids first demonstrated their karate forms—some with very serious focus, while others snuck glances at our samurai costumes during practice. It was adorable!
Afterward, we performed our Samurai action, which got the young karate kids even more curious about Japanese sword fighting.
We invited 4–5 of them to try out samurai swordplay (chambara) with us. They practiced basic forms, partner drills, and 1-on-1 choreography.
We used full-size replica swords, so some struggled a bit with drawing and sheathing. Since Japanese swords have a curve and only one sharp edge, the direction matters.
But mastering those details is part of the samurai experience—and they gave it their all!
It was a meaningful cultural exchange with martial arts students overseas.
We’ll continue sharing samurai workshops both in Japan and around the world!
We offer Samurai experiences in Japan. If you’re visiting Tokyo, be sure to check it out!
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