FAQ - SAMURAI ARMOR EXPERIENCE TOKYO

Q.Do I need to make a reservation?

A.Yes. Our studio offers private sessions for each group, so reservations are required. Please book your preferred date and time using the reservation form on each plan page. Bookings are first-come, first-served. If your preferred time is already taken, we will contact you to reschedule.

Q.Can I make a same-day reservation?

A.Sometimes, yes. Same-day bookings may be possible, but cannot be made through the website form. Please contact us by phone. Note: We may not be able to respond quickly to emails or messages during photo sessions.

Q.Can children wear the armor? From what age can they join the photo shoot?

A.Yes. Children can wear armor starting from around 3 to 4 years old (about 90 cm in height). We will proceed with the photo session while considering the child’s mood.

Q.Are there different armor sizes available?

A.For adults, armor is one-size-fits-all and will be adjusted by our dresser to fit properly.
For children, we have:
2 sets for approx. 90–120 cm in height
2 sets for approx. 130–145 cm in height

Q.Do I need to bring anything for the experience?

A.No preparation is needed. All clothing and items required for the armor experience are provided by our studio.

Q.Are there any props available for the photoshoot?

A.Yes. We provide props such as swords, spears, command batons, and matchlock guns. Our staff will also guide you with posing.

Q.Can I bring my own props for the photoshoot?

A.Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own props. Please note that you are responsible for managing your personal items. If you plan to bring anything, letting us know in advance (e.g., at the time of booking) will help the session run smoothly.

Q.Can I change my reservation?

A.Yes. Please contact Studio SAMURAI directly to request any changes.
TEL.+81-3-6847-2653
E-mail info@samurai-pictures.jp

**Please note that changes may still incur a cancellation fee depending on the timing.

Q.How do I cancel my reservation?

A.Please contact Studio SAMURAI to cancel your reservation.
TEL.+81-3-6847-2653
E-mail info@samurai-pictures.jp
**A cancellation fee will apply from 7 days before your scheduled visit. For details, please refer to the cancellation policy at the bottom of the page. **Guests who cancel on short notice multiple times or do not show up without notice may be declined future bookings.

Q.What if I’m late for my reservation?

A.If you are more than 15 minutes late without notice, your reservation may be canceled. Even with notice, we may need to adjust your session depending on your arrival time.

Q.Can I bring someone with me to the studio?

A.Yes. Guests accompanying the person being photographed are welcome. Please note that the studio is kept cool for those wearing armor, so we recommend companions bring a light jacket or shawl.

Q.Can I take photos or videos with my own camera?

A.Yes. You may use your own camera for photos or videos. However, the studio photographer’s session will take priority in terms of time and posing.

Q.Do you provide hair and makeup services?

A.Sorry, we do not offer hair or makeup services at our studio.

Q.Can I receive the photos as digital data?

A.Yes. Each plan includes composite images as well as all photos taken on the green screen, which will be provided on a USB. Additionally, for easy sharing on social media, we offer a download link for the composite images.
**The download link is available for one month.
**For the composite photo option in the SAMURAI Plan, data will be provided via download only.

Q.Can I order printed goods after the photo session?

A.Yes! You can place additional or follow-up orders for printed items not included in your plan. Some items require preparation time if you wish to take them home on the same day—please inform our staff as early as possible. We also offer shipping if needed.

Q.What payment methods are available?

A.Payment is made at the studio on the day of your session. We accept cash and credit cards.

Q.Can I use the photos for commercial purposes?

A.Photos taken at our studio are intended for personal and private use. Commercial use, whether by individuals or companies, requires a license fee. Please contact our staff for details.

Terms of Use

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests participating in the armor experience and photo session, we kindly ask that you read and comply with the following terms. Please note that guests who do not follow these guidelines may be refused service.

◆Reservations

We may contact you using the email address or phone number provided at the time of booking.
If you arrive more than 15 minutes past your reserved time without notice, your reservation may be considered canceled.
If you arrive late, we may need to adjust the content or duration of your session. Thank you for your understanding.

◆Cancellations

As our studio is reserved exclusively for one group at a time, a cancellation fee will be charged for date changes or cancellations.
Cancellation Fee
・Within 24 hours of the reserved date and time: 100% of the reserved plan fee

◆Refusal of Service

We reserve the right to decline reservations or deny entry in the following cases. Thank you for your understanding:

If a guest has been diagnosed by a medical professional with an illness or contagious condition (e.g., influenza, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, head lice, etc.) and is clearly not yet recovered.
Even without a formal diagnosis, if our staff determines that there is a potential risk of infection.
If the guest is intoxicated.
If the guest brings a pet (excluding certified assistance dogs).
If the guest engages in any behavior that violates these terms.
If the guest engages in criminal acts or behavior connected to criminal activity.
If the guest fails to follow the instructions or guidance of our staff.

◆Suspension of Services

Service may be suspended under the following circumstances:
When regular or emergency maintenance is required.
In the event of natural disasters or other emergency situations, or if there is a risk of such events occurring.
If we determine that suspending part or all of our services is necessary for any reason.

We are not liable for any damages suffered by guests or third parties as a result of such service suspensions.

戦国フォトスタジオSAMURAI

4.8

Based on 44 reviews

review us on

Robert

19:39 03 Mar 24

I've had my fair share of armor experiences in castles and museums from Osaka to Matsushima, but what sets this shop apart from all of them is the feeling that you've become a protagonist in a movie set.While it isn't anywhere close to a historical monument or relic, there is still an air of authenticity in the place from the moment you make the ascent to the 3rd floor. The hallway is narrow to bottleneck any enemy attack. The armor isn't just a single piece you can slap on yourself with zero difficulty — it is an intricate reproduction of the original down to its weight and to the little sounds it makes when you move around (of course a few tweaks had to be made for practicality, such as reducing Masamune's cuirass from 5 pieces to 2). And let's not forget the waraji (sandals)!You will be managed by a team of three who really know their stuff. For me, it was Taro-san, Junko-san, and Tateki-san. Taro-san, the director and photographer, was well-versed in samurai history and I enjoyed discussing NHK taiga dramas (because their theme songs were playing in the background for mood music) and samurai crests with him. Junko-san was in charge of photos and editing. Plus, she made sure my wife and child were comfortable in the studio. Tateki-san is the fight choreographer, which is fitting since he is both a sword instructor and tournament champion. He will make absolutely sure that your poses with the blade are authentic, including tiny details such as hiding your thumbs so they don't get cut off. Interestingly enough, he has samurai ancestors.If you have both the time and the budget, I highly recommend this experience. It will feel like a full-course meal, where you savor every stage without being rushed by the staff because you are the hero of your time slot. And they also have extras such as a capsule toy machine and a small selection of relevant books for further immersion.In fact, I had so much fun that I came back for seconds... with my high school friends in tow.

Farzina Ahmadi

09:23 06 Feb 24

That’s amazing for whom would like to see Samurai

Lobo

09:35 01 Dec 23

It was a wonderful experience with a wonderful team. They speak well in english and I learn so much things with them ! They do everything they can to make the customer comfortable and to give him great memories. Thank you to all of you !

Jan Lembacher

06:32 12 Oct 23

A must visit place in Tokyo if you love history. Dressing up in samurai armor and then training with a master is worth the money.

SteveDuts

07:12 25 Sep 23

This was an absolute fantastic experience, the staff and friendly, funny and informative. They make you feel totally at ease while putting on the armour and explaining it as you go.The photos they create are stunning, you get large choice and a USB with all the data.This is a must do experience in Tokyo!

Don Pereboom (Kresna82)

08:24 02 Jan 20

A GREAT experience! First of all we were greeted by the owner, and he and his assistent really took the time to get us settled. I chose the Take package with a picture of my wife in kimono included. The staff really took their time to explain about the history of samurai armor, and they answered all our questions. What you pay for is basically a private photo shoot for 2 hours. This had GREAT results. I had some concerns about wether I would fit in the armor because of my bodysize. This proved no problem, they will make it look good on camera! I HIGHLY recommend this place! Do book in advance though, and make sure to leave for this place on time. It is quite a walk from the nearest metro station.

Eric Canoy

03:44 21 Apr 18

Even though they are a small studio, they are very accommodating and very patient with you. Bring an interpreter, as they mostly only speak Japanese. They have a lot of armors and composite backgrounds to choose from to fit with the look you want from your pictures. Don't be afraid to ask if you want a different weapon or prop in your picture. You can do other poses as well, just be mindful of how much time you will need for the photo shoot. You can also include your significant other with a kimono in your photos.Maximum people they can accommodate is 6-7. The studio isn't big enough for more than 4 people in a composite background.There are also children sizes samurai armor too.