Koka Ninja Village
Unleash your inner ninja at Koka Ninja Village! Explore a historic ninja house, train in ninjutsu, and discover ancient secrets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Koka Ninja Village
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Unleash your inner ninja at Koka Ninja Village! Explore a historic ninja house, train in ninjutsu, and discover ancient secrets.
"Koka Ninja Village was easily the highlight of the entire trip. Incredible people and amazing fun!"
🎯 Free Shuttle Service
Call from Koka Station for a free shuttle to the village. They'll even help you catch your train home!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be running, jumping, and exploring. Water shoes are fun for some activities too!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ninja Training Activities
Various stations throughout the village
Test your stealth and agility with shuriken throwing, wall runs, and log challenges. Fun for all ages!
Ninja House of Secrets
Traditional dwelling
Explore a historic ninja house with hidden doors, secret passages, and clever traps. A true test of observation!
Ninjutsu Museum
Museum building
Discover authentic ninja artifacts, weapons, and historical documents. Learn about the art of ninjutsu.
Shuriken Throwing Range
Designated range
Learn the art of shuriken throwing from skilled instructors and aim for the bullseye. Safe for kids!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Your Inner Ninja
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Shuttle Service
Call from Koka Station for a free shuttle to the village. They'll even help you catch your train home!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be running, jumping, and exploring. Water shoes are fun for some activities too!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Two hours isn't enough! Many visitors wish they had more time for activities and the museum.
🎒 Bag Storage Available
Don't worry about your luggage; they offer free storage for backpacks and strollers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Shuttle Service
Call from Koka Station for a free shuttle to the village. They'll even help you catch your train home!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be running, jumping, and exploring. Water shoes are fun for some activities too!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Two hours isn't enough! Many visitors wish they had more time for activities and the museum.
🎒 Bag Storage Available
Don't worry about your luggage; they offer free storage for backpacks and strollers.
📸 Capture the Fun
Water shoes make for hilarious videos! Embrace the silliness and get creative.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Koka Ninja Village for its fun, interactive experiences and the passion of its staff. It's highly recommended for families and anyone interested in a unique glimpse into ninja history. While some wish for more time, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the engaging activities and accommodating service.
"I think this spot is fun for all ages and the people running. It are very passionate about ninja history and sharing the ancient ninja culture. The activities are fun and would be a great family stop. It is also near many other great locations and the wonderful pottery town of Shigaraki so this can be a part of a full day experience in the area!"
Lauren Shannon
"Fun family run Ninja town. My three 12 year old boys had a blast running around this place acting like Ninja and learning about how actual ninja trained and survived in the time of the Ninja. My favorite part was throwing real ninja stars at targets and dressing up in Ninja gear."
Jeremy Mowry
"Koka Ninja Village was easily the highlight of the entire trip. Let me start by saying that the staff was incredibly accommodating. We arrived at the station and just called their number for them to arrive within minutes to pick us up and shuttle us there, which is only about a ten minute drive away. As a heads up, I didn't find a phone at the station but if you have the Line app, you are able to make short, free calls internationally and that's what I used to let them know we needed their help. When we arrived, they asked which train we would like to take to get home and let us know what time we would need to leave the village in order to make it to our desired train. They even came to find us being silly at one of the rock walls to let us know it was time to go. AND they very kindly stored all of our backpacks and the stroller we had so we didn't need to carry it around. Just incredible people.
Next, I wish we had more time, really. We were there for two hours and we all wish we had more. The first place we went was the shuriken range where a very nice man taught us how to throw shuriken and we got to practice on different tiers of distance. I eventually got a bullseye and feel really good about that. Kids are allowed to throw, too, which is great. The shuriken are dulled so it's safe!
There are so many "ninja training" activities around the park, too. We spent so long at each of them having fun trying to do them faster each time, especially the log run and the wall run. The water shoes made for hilarious videos and are probably some of my favorite memories. We were told we were definitely using them wrong but, as we were also told, no one has really figured out how to use them right.
The museum was incredible. Take a lot of time there. Old ninja clothes, scrolls, grappling hooks, weapons- it's so cool. Another very impressive highlight is the house of trap doors. My niece had particular fun with this one as our tour guide made it a guessing game to determine where the trap door is.
There's also a ninja grave by a temple that is coming apart. It's beautiful and a little eerie and I could have stayed there for a long time. You can buy fortunes there, too, for the usual very cheap coin donation. I took a picture of mine before tying it to the tree so that way I could always remember what it said!
We ended up missing out on the pottery workshop and the restaurant, both of which we were hoping to do but because of reviews, we underestimated how much time we would want. I can't wait to go back to try those last two things out. I seriously can't recommend this place enough. It's an amazing place to be silly, try some physical challenges, and experience a history that isn't easy to find. If you have the chance to make it to Koka Ninja Village, please do it."
Charlotte Romero
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take a train to Koka Station. From there, you can call the village for a free shuttle service that picks you up and takes you directly there. The ride is about 10 minutes. Some visitors have used the Line app for free international calls to arrange pick-up.
Koka Ninja Village is located in Shiga Prefecture, which is adjacent to Kyoto. It's considered a great day trip option from Kyoto, offering a unique experience away from the usual tourist crowds.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is likely parking available. However, many visitors opt for the convenient free shuttle service from Koka Station, especially if they are using public transportation to reach Koka.
The staff at Koka Ninja Village are very accommodating and will help you plan your departure to catch your desired train. They will let you know what time you need to leave the village to make it to the station.
While you might not find a dedicated phone booth at the station, calling the village directly is the recommended method. Have your Line app ready if you're an international traveler.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally, you can expect to pay for entry to the village and its activities. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons or if you plan to participate in specific workshops or demonstrations. This helps ensure your spot.
There might be different ticket packages that include access to various activities, the museum, and the ninja house. Inquire about package deals to get the most value for your visit.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Koka Ninja Village website for the most current operating hours before your visit to avoid any disappointment.
Often, family-friendly attractions like Koka Ninja Village offer discounts for children and group bookings. It's worth inquiring about these options when purchasing your tickets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can engage in various ninja training activities like shuriken throwing, wall climbing, and log runs. There's also a museum showcasing ninja artifacts and a traditional ninja house with secret passages.
Absolutely! It's a very family-friendly destination. Kids love the hands-on activities, dressing up in ninja gear, and exploring the secret house. The shuriken are dulled for safety.
Yes, all activities are designed for both adults and children. Many adults find it a fun and challenging experience to test their ninja skills.
Most visitors recommend at least 2-3 hours, with many wishing they had more time. The museum and the various training activities can easily fill up a significant portion of your day.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. Guides can provide historical context and make the experience more engaging, especially for those new to ninja culture.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Koka Ninja Village, allowing you to capture your ninja adventures. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or instructions from staff regarding photography in certain exhibits.
The traditional ninja house with its hidden elements, the shuriken throwing range, and the scenic natural surroundings offer great photo opportunities. Don't forget to capture yourself in ninja attire! 
While participating in activities, it's best to prioritize safety and enjoyment. Some activities might make it difficult to take photos, but you can always ask a friend or family member to capture your moments.
Typically, drone usage is restricted at most tourist attractions to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors. It's advisable to check the village's policy on drones before your visit.
Travelers often share photos of themselves dressed as ninjas, attempting the training activities, exploring the secret house, and posing with ninja artifacts from the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The village staff are incredibly welcoming and patient with children, ensuring a safe and fun experience for everyone. The Ninjutsu Museum also offers educational value, introducing kids to the history and tools of ninjas in an engaging way. Plus, the free shuttle service from Koka Station and bag storage make the logistics super easy for parents.
🎒 Budget Travelers
While there might be a small fee for certain premium experiences or souvenirs, the core activities like the ninja training grounds, museum, and secret house are often part of the general admission. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money, though there are dining options available on-site. The overall experience provides a unique cultural immersion that is hard to find elsewhere at a comparable price point.
💑 Couples Seeking Adventure
The scenic natural surroundings of the village also offer a pleasant backdrop for a romantic outing. You can explore the grounds hand-in-hand, discover the historical ninja grave, and enjoy the unique blend of adventure and culture. It’s a memorable way to step outside the ordinary and create exciting new memories together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Ninjutsu: Beyond the Myths
Beyond the artifacts, the village emphasizes the practical application of ninjutsu through its ninja training activities. These hands-on experiences, such as shuriken throwing and navigating hidden passages, are designed to simulate the challenges faced by historical ninjas. While not a full combat training, they offer a fun and engaging way to understand the principles of agility, precision, and strategic thinking that were crucial for survival. The Ninja House of Secrets further illustrates this, with its cleverly concealed entrances and escape routes, demonstrating the ingenuity employed by ninjas to evade detection.
Many visitors are surprised by the dedication of the staff, who are passionate about sharing this unique aspect of Japanese history. Their enthusiasm and willingness to explain the historical context behind each activity and exhibit enrich the overall experience. It's this blend of historical accuracy and interactive fun that makes Koka Ninja Village a compelling destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and the legendary world of the ninja.
Family Fun and Unforgettable Memories
The Ninja House of Secrets is another highlight for families. Exploring the hidden doors, secret passages, and clever traps provides an element of mystery and excitement, turning the visit into a real-life adventure. The staff often make these tours interactive, turning them into guessing games that keep younger visitors captivated. Furthermore, the opportunity to dress up in ninja costumes adds an extra layer of fun, allowing everyone to fully immerse themselves in the ninja persona.
Beyond the immediate fun, the village offers a chance for families to learn about Japanese history and culture together. The Ninjutsu Museum provides educational insights into the lives and skills of historical ninjas, making it a valuable learning experience disguised as play. The friendly and accommodating staff, including the convenient shuttle service and bag storage, further enhance the family-friendly atmosphere, ensuring a stress-free and memorable visit for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit