Predictions 2025: Year of the Samurai in Japan

Are you ready for a new adventure in 2025? How about diving into the world of samurais, Japanese swords, and ancient history? We’ve got some exciting recommendations for you!

In 2024, Japanese TV series made a big splash on popular cable channels like Netflix and HBO Max. Fans were treated to shows like HBO’s “Tokyo Vice,” based on Jake Adelstein’s book, and Netflix’s “House of Ninjas,” which had a stellar Japanese cast and a fun take on the ninja genre. And get this, even Sonic the Hedgehog is heading to Tokyo in 2025!

But the show that stole the spotlight in 2024 was Netflix’s remake of the classic novel and 1980s drama series, “Shogun.” Led by the incredible Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Yoshii Toranaga, the series won over Western audiences and sparked a newfound interest in all things samurai.

If you’re keen on experiencing samurai culture firsthand, you’re in luck. Thanks to Japan’s rise as a top travel destination post-COVID, businesses across the country are gearing up to offer samurai and martial arts experiences to eager visitors. From sword swinging to immersing yourself in samurai lifestyle and culture, there’s something for everyone, young and old.

For those who prefer a more flexible approach to their trip, there are customized tours and independent providers on Trip Advisor that offer short, hands-on experiences like test-cutting with a real Japanese sword. These hidden gems are often tucked away in the alleys of popular tourist hotspots.

You can also try your hand at castle visits, tea ceremonies, calligraphy, armor fitting, photo shoots in samurai gear against CGI backdrops, Zen meditation, and sampling traditional Edo-period cuisine. It’s a journey back in time like no other!

And if you’re itching to dive deep into the world of samurais, here are some exciting tours and activities you can check out:

– Premium Tour to Experience the Spirit of Samurai Culture: An exclusive two-day package by the Setouchi City Tourist Organization in Okayama. Dive into educational talks, martial arts demonstrations, “test-cutting” with a real Japanese sword, sword-making demos, pottery-making under a master potter, and more. End your day with a sumptuous meal at a traditional Japanese house and a ninja-themed cruise!

– The Heart of the Japanese Sword: Oasa bus company offers packages like TAMAHAGANE, where you explore modern Japanese swords, or an Apprenticeship with a Master Swordsmith to craft your own paper knife from tamahagane. You can also take the Samurai Experience Tameshi-giri challenge for a thrilling test-cutting session!

Get ready to embark on a samurai journey like never before in 2025. It’s an experience that blends history, culture, and adventure in the land of the rising sun!