"Even children who normally balk at museums will flip for the Samurai Museum, a highly interactive spot in Shinjuku that delves into the life and times of Japan’s fearsome feudal warriors. With so many opportunities to dress up in samurai armor and watch live demonstrations, your kids won’t even realize how much they’re learning in the process. Admittedly, the museum glosses over some of the complexities of 800 years of history, but for an entertaining, easy-to-digest overview, it works well. Guided tours, which are included in the price of admission, are one of the highlights here. Enthusiastic English-speaking guides come armed with all kinds of anecdotes and enough patience to answer questions from even the most inquisitive kids. If you’re in a hurry, time your visit to the free sword-fighting demonstrations. They only last 10 to 15 minutes, but they'll leave a lasting impression. Take a few minutes at the end of the tour for a photo-op in full samurai regalia." - Diana Hubbell
