Seen in movies, manga, anime and video games in Japan as well as Western comics, cartoons and films, Japanese martial arts have captured the public imagination. For some, it is pure entertainment while for others it has inspired them to dedicate their lives to it. Whether you are a curious onlooker or a devoted martial artist, Japan has got to be at the top of your travel itinerary. Exotissimo has three distinct day trips in Tokyo, giving you a unique angle on ninjitsu, samurai swordsmanship and sumo life.

The ninja is a truly intriguing character. A covert agent or mercenary during Japan’s feudal era, Exotissimo’s Ninja Workshop gives you the chance to be a stealth warrior yourself by taking part in an authentic training course. After meditation, you’ll lay hands on the warrior’s most famous weapon, the Shuriken (ninja stars), before learning a number of other essential ninja skills and weapon wielding.

The polar opposite of a ninja, the samurai is an honorable warrior (much like the Western knight). He/she follows a strict set of rules known as bushido (way of the warrior) with seven virtues consisting of Rectitude, Courage, Benevolence, Respect, Honesty, Honor and Loyalty. Exotissimo features a full day Samurai Experience, learning the fundamental techniques behind sword fighting. Tetsuro Shimaguchi, well known for his choreography work on the movie Kill Bill as well as playing Miki in the film leads the session.

Professional sumo wrestling only exists in Japan. The sport is one of the country’s national pastimes and top wrestlers enjoy celebrity-like status. Exotissimo takes you beyond the ring and behind the scenes on its Sumo Training Experience. You will get to observe its strict training regimes and day-to-day lifestyles these dedicated athletes go through in their training stables, called heyas.

Exotissimo’s Japan day trips are excellent extensions during your stay in the Land of the Rising Sun. They are carefully crafted, thoroughly detailed and take you closer to hidden gems and one-of-a-kind experiences few tourists even know about.