Ninja culture is a unique aspect of Japan’s heritage. While they are well-known through anime and movies in Japan, ninjas are even more popular abroad. But why is there such fascination with ninjas overseas? What makes them so intriguing to people outside Japan? In this article, we’ll explore the captivating allure of ninjas that fascinates the world, and introduce seven carefully selected spots in Japan where you can actually experience being a ninja. Immerse yourself in a unique, extraordinary world that you can only find in Japan.
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Why Japanese Ninjas Are Popular Worldwide
Ninjas have now gained more popularity overseas than in Japan. But why have they been so widely accepted and become so prominent abroad? Interestingly, the image of ninjas that Japanese people have differs significantly from that of people overseas. It’s this overseas-created image of the "NINJA" that has captured the hearts of many.
In Japan, the typical image of a ninja is someone dressed in black, hiding their face, and carrying out assassinations and espionage. They are seen as dark heroes who operate in the shadows. However, in reality, ninjas were quite the opposite, blending into the crowd and making efforts not to stand out.
Ninjas have been depicted in movies and anime frequently. However, the way ninjas are portrayed overseas is different from the Japanese version, often showing them sneaking into various aspects of daily life. Over time, this portrayal of "NINJA" became widely beloved.
7 Spots to Experience Being a Ninja!
Now, let's introduce seven spots in Japan where you can actually experience being a ninja. When you visit Japan, make sure to drop by one of these unique locations to enjoy an unforgettable experience you can only find here.
1. NINJA CAFE ASAKUSA | Tokyo
Located in Asakusa, Tokyo, NINJA CAFE ASAKUSA is Japan's first ninja house-themed entertainment cafe. Trained ninja staff welcome visitors and help them unwind after their travels. The cafe is filled with photo opportunities, and you can dress up in ninja costumes to take memorable photos to bring home as souvenirs. Being an entirely indoor facility, it's also a perfect option even on rainy days.
The cafe also offers ninja-themed lunch menus that are extremely popular with kids. You can enjoy dishes like shuriken-shaped curry and ninja tricks such as the Fire Technique Fondant Chocolate, offering a full sensory experience.
［kkday]👉Ninja Experience at Ninja Cafe | Tokyo, Japan
2. Ninja Experience Cafe Takayama | Gifu Prefecture
Ninja Experience Cafe Takayama in Gifu Prefecture offers an authentic ninja experience. Inside the cafe, you'll find rare displays of helmets, swords, and tea ceremony tools. You can don a ninja outfit and immerse yourself in real ninja training while learning about Japan's natural history and the role of ninjas.
Since it's an indoor facility, you can enjoy your visit even on rainy days. It's a great spot for families with children, as well as couples and groups. Note that it's open on weekends and public holidays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
［kkday]👉Ninja Experience in Takayama
［kkday]👉Takayama Showakan admission ticket reservation (Gifu Prefecture)
3. Ninja-Do | Osaka
Located in Nishinari-ku, Osaka, NINJA-DO offers ninja training experiences, including practicing with ninja swords, tools used by ninjas not just for cutting but for other purposes, and shuriken. After your training, you can dress up in ninja costumes and take photos to keep as souvenirs.
The highlight of this spot is the VR experience where you can battle against Sanada Yukimura, one of Japan's most famous warriors. This immersive experience, using the latest technology, is something you can only enjoy here.
［kkday]👉Osaka｜Ninja experience & go strolling！
4. NINJA CAFE OSAKA DOTOMBORI | Osaka
NINJA CAFE OSAKA DOTOMBORI is an entertainment cafe themed around “becoming a ninja and having fun.” Ninja staff provide visitors with memorable experiences, and the entire space is filled with photo spots, so you can take plenty of memorable pictures. As an indoor facility, it’s perfect for rainy days.
［kkday]👉Ninja Experience Cafe in Osaka Dotonbori | Japan
5. NINJA CAFE KYOTO GION | Kyoto Prefecture
NINJA CAFE KYOTO GION, located in Kyoto’s Gion district, is Japan's first ninja-themed entertainment cafe. It’s a great spot for kids and families to fully immerse themselves in the ninja experience. Experienced ninja staff offer their hospitality, and there are numerous photo spots both inside and outside the cafe.
There’s also a unique strolling plan where you can explore Kyoto dressed as a ninja. This offers a one-of-a-kind experience, and taking photos against the charming backdrop of Kyoto will make for fantastic travel memories.
［kkday]👉NINJA CAFE KYOTO GION Ninja experience | Kyoto, Japan
6.Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura |Tochigi Prefecture
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura in Tochigi Prefecture is a theme park set in the Edo period. The vast grounds let you experience the historic streets of Edo, filled with an authentic atmosphere. You can dress up as a ninja, samurai, or courtesan and participate in a variety of activities.
The Edo-era streets set against the backdrop of the Nikko mountains offer different charms throughout the seasons. Enjoy seasonal events and fully immerse yourself in the Edo period experience.
7. Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura (Historic Village) | Hokkaido
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura is a cultural park that recreates the streets and culture of the Edo period. You can enjoy various shows that bring the Edo era to life, such as thrilling ninja performances and dazzling courtesan dances. There are also attractions where you can try throwing shurikens, rent Edo-period costumes, and savor street food, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the time.
With its charming streets blending into Hokkaido’s great nature, and the exciting action and splendid performances, you might feel like you’ve traveled back to the Edo period.
［kkday]👉[Discount] Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Advance Admission Ticket in Hokkaido | Japan
Experience Being a Ninja!
In this article, we’ve selected 7 spots where you can feel like a ninja in Japan. Ninja culture is unique to Japan, so be sure to visit these places if you’re in the country.
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