Begin your experience by meeting your instructor, Reiho Sato, a national champion in Naginata. Learn about the history and significance of this traditional Japanese martial art, which involves wielding a long polearm.

Next, change into a hakama, traditional Japanese clothing for martial arts, if you choose this option. Then, head to Yuigahama Beach, where you’ll learn how to grip and swing the wooden naginata sword from scratch.

Feel your body move as you let the weight of the sword do the work, moving without force. Find balance, steady your breathing, and ease into a meditative state. In case of rain, learn the behavior of wa (Japanese-style) with the hakama.

After your Naginata experience, visit a photogenic spot to take souvenir photos. Choose from local shrines, temples, or traditional Japanese architecture. Finally, return to Atelier & Gallery Ichirin to change clothes and enjoy a cup of matcha, traditional Japanese tea.

For safety reasons, participants must follow the instructor’s instructions at all times.