Formerly a school for the sons of samurai, the Matsushiro Bunbu Literary & Military Arts School is one of Matsushiro’s most interesting destinations and from Monday to Friday, offers visitors to try their hand at a wide variety of traditional experiences.

For aspiring samurai, ‘kyoudo’ (archery) and ‘kobudo’ (martial arts) are always popular while more serene activities including ‘ikebana’ (flower arrangement) and tea ceremony are also available.

Workshops last between 1 to 2 hours and the price varies depending on the activity, with several activities free or requiring a small payment of around JPY300 per person, Bookings must be made in advance by phone (Japanese only).