For wanna-be samurai and other fans of Japanese swords and knifes, Tozando should be high on your itinerary.
Almost directly across the street from the Kyoto Handicraft Center, Tozando is the best place in Kyoto to buy real and reproduced Japanese swords (katana) and knives, as well as related items. You can’t miss the shop: just look for the authentic samurai armor in window. Our only advice (other than bringing plenty of cash if you intend to make a purchase) is not to put this stuff in your carry-on luggage.
See also our in-depth article on Kyoto Samurai.
English address:
24 Shogoin Entomi-cho, Sakyo-ku
Japanese address:
左京区聖護院円頓美町24
Opening hours:
10am-7pm
Price:
Iaido sword from \21,000
Nearest Transport:
10min walk from Jingu Marutamachi Station, Keihan line
Telephone: 762-1341
Website: Official Website (English)
Near To Here:
Tozando is located in Kyoto’s Northern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Northern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help