Fencing Youth Tournament and Camp
SAMURAI CHALLENGE 2026
July 18 – July 22, 2026
Hakone, Japan
Enhance your performance this summer in Hakone through both competition and structured training.
This is an international open fencing competition and training camp program launched in 2024.
The program is designed to provide valuable insights for athletes aiming to compete on the world stage in the future.
To date, more than 500 fencers have participated in this international program.
We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity as your next step and challenge.
From Beginners to Advanced Athletes
Even beginners are welcome to participate in both the training camp and the competition.
During the camp, coaches and assistants provide instruction tailored to each participant’s level, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment for all.
There is no need to be concerned about your current skill level.
Physical Training
Physical training is essential for improving fencing performance.
In addition to fencing instruction, this camp provides a structured strength and conditioning program designed to support long-term athletic development.
Opportunities for International Exchange
In addition to the competition, spending time together during the camp creates valuable opportunities for interaction among participants.
By building connections with athletes of the same age from different countries, participants can enrich their future fencing careers.
This program offers a rare opportunity to experience an international training environment without leaving the country.
Top-Level Coaching with Individual Attention
The camp is led by former coaches of the Japanese national team, along with active athletes.
This provides a valuable opportunity to receive practical, professional-level coaching.
Welcoming for Individual Participants
At the camp, our staff emphasize both independence and teamwork while providing support in training and daily life.
Participants can attend on their own with confidence, as a safe and supportive environment is ensured.
トップメッセージ
“Fencing is a sport of speed, skill, and smart decision-making.
At this camp, we create an environment where each athlete can grow, challenge themselves, and enjoy the process.
Join us in Hakone and take the next step in your fencing journey.”
EMURA Koji
SAMURAI CHALLENGE Representative and Head Coach
Emura Koji is the first coach in Japan to be certified as an Advanced Fencing Master Coach.
He has been active with the Japan Fencing Federation for over 25 years, serving as a national team coach, head coach, and general manager
As a coach and head coach of the Japanese national team, he contributed to winning silver medals at the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Olympic Games.
In 2015, he also led Japan to its first-ever World Championship title at the World Fencing Championships.
In addition to coaching top-level athletes, he has been a pioneer in the development of youth fencing and wheelchair fencing in Japan.
Connect with Koji
Overall Schedule
Saturday, July 18
Doors Open / Registration: 8:30
Final Check-in: 9:15
Start Time: 10:00
Estimated End Time: 18:00
Seisa Lake Arena Hakone
Competition Day 1
Mixed Foil U8 / Mixed Epee U8 / Mixed Sabre U8
Men Foil U12 / Women Foil U12
Men Epee U12 / Women Epee U12
Men Sabre U12 / Women Sabre U12
Men Foil U17 / Women Foil U17
Men Epee U17 / Women Epee U17
Men Sabre U17 / Women Sabre U17
Sunday, July 19
Doors Open / Registration: 8:30
Final Check-in: 9:15
Start Time: 10:00
Estimated End Time: 17:00
Seisa Lake Arena Hakone
Competition Day 2
Men Foil U10 / Women Foil U10
Men Epee U10 / Women Epee U10
Men Sabre U10 / Women Sabre U10
Men Foil U14 / Women Foil U14
Men Epee U14 / Women Epee U14
Men Sabre U14 / Women Sabre U14
Monday, July 20
9:00 – 18:00
Seisa Lake Arena Hakone
Training Camp Day 1
Fencing + Physical Training
Tuesday, July 21
9:00 – 18:00
Seisa Lake Arena Hakone
Training Camp Day 2
Fencing + Physical Training
Wednesday, July 22
9:00 – 18:00
Seisa Lake Arena Hakone
Training Camp Day 3
Fencing + Physical Training
Participation is available for the full program, as well as for the competition only or the training camp only.
Please note that the schedule is subject to change based on the number of participants and other factors.
Full Program (Competition + Training Camp)
/person
Full Program (Competition + Training Camp,Non-Accommodation)
/person
Training Camp Only
/person
Competition Only
/person
Competition Details
Event Name
SAMURAI CHALLENGE 2026 Tournament
Venue
Seisa Lake Arena Hakone
164-1 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
Schedule
Saturday, July 18
Venue Opens: 8:30
Competition Begins: 10:00
Mixed Foil U8
Mixed Epee U8
Mixed Sabre U8
Men and Women Foil U12 / U17
Men and Women Epee U12 / U17
Men and Women Sabre U12 / U17
Individual events only
Sunday, July 19
Venue Opens: 8:30
Competition Begins: 10:00
Men and Women Foil U10 / U14
Men and Women Epee U10 / U14
Men and Women Sabre U10 / U14
Individual events only
Age Requirements
U8: Born in 2018–2019
U10: Born in 2016–2017
U12: Born in 2014–2015
U14: Born in 2012–2013
U17: Born in 2009–2011
Athletes in the U8 to U14 categories are allowed to compete in the next higher age category.
Participants may not enter multiple events held on the same day.
If fewer than three athletes are registered in an event, categories may be combined with mixed-gender divisions or higher age categories, or the event may be canceled. In the case of cancellation by the organizer, entry fees will be fully refunded.
Competition Format
A single round of pool bouts will be held for the preliminary stage. The top 70% of athletes will advance to direct elimination.
In U8, U10, and U12 events only, direct elimination bouts will be fenced to 10 points.
No match will be held for third place.
The competition format may be subject to change in events with an extremely small number of participants.
Awards
Gold, silver, and two bronze medals will be awarded to the top finishers.
Certificates (diplomas) will be awarded to all athletes placing from 1st to 3rd.
All participants will receive a certificate of participation.
In mixed-gender events, awards will be given separately for men and women.
Entry Fees
The entry fee is JPY 8,400 per athlete, per event/category.
Athletes who purchase a camp package plan are not required to pay any additional entry fees.
Registration
Please apply via the “Apply Here” button located under the “Plans” section.
Participants may choose between a Competition-Only Entry Plan and a Camp Package Plan.
Payment is available via online credit card processing (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, and Diners Club).
Registration Period
First Registration Period: Saturday, April 18, 2026 – Friday, May 15, 2026 (17:00)
Second Registration Period: Monday, May 18, 2026 – Friday, June 12, 2026 (17:00)
Accommodation & Transportation
Accommodation and transportation services are available exclusively to participants who purchase a camp package plan.
Parking is available at the venue; however, spaces are limited.
Participants registered under the camp package plan will be accommodated in lodging within walking distance of the venue or in accommodations with scheduled bus transportation provided.
Equipment Regulations
U8 / U10
• Blade: Size 0–5
• Uniform: Minimum 350N resistance, CE certified
National emblem or name printing is recommended but not mandatory.
• Mask: Minimum 350N resistance, CE certified, with mandatory second safety strap
U12 / U14
• Blade: Size 3–5
• Uniform: Minimum 350N resistance, CE certified
National emblem or name printing is recommended but not mandatory.
• Mask: Minimum 350N resistance, CE certified, with mandatory second safety strap
U17
• Blade: Size 5
• Uniform: Minimum 350N resistance, CE certified
• Plastron (Underarm Protector): Minimum 800N resistance, CE certified
National emblem or name printing is recommended but not mandatory.
• Mask: Minimum 1600N resistance, CE certified, with mandatory second safety strap
General Information
There are no restaurants or convenience stores within or near the venue. Participants are advised to prepare their own meals, such as packed lunches, in advance if needed.
Participants registered under the camp package plan will be provided with lunch (boxed meals) during the competition days at the venue.
Detailed schedules for each event will be published as soon as possible after the registration period has closed.
Cancellations are permitted up to 30 days prior to the event. In such cases, a cancellation fee of 20% of the total payment will be deducted, and the remaining amount will be refunded. Cancellations made after this deadline are non-refundable, regardless of the reason.
Training Camp Details
Camp Name
SAMURAI CHALLENGE 2026 Camp
Venue
Seisa Lake Arena Hakone
164-1 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
Schedule
Monday, July 20
Session 1
Lunch
Session 2
Fitness Assessment and Physical Training Session
Lunch and Break
Fencing Practice and Bouts
Tuesday, July 21
Session 1
Lunch
Session 2
Physical Training Session, Fencing Practice and Bouts
Lunch and Break
Fencing Practice and Bouts
Wednesday, July 22
Session 1
Lunch
Session 2
Physical Training Session, Fencing Practice and Bouts
Lunch and Break
Fencing Practice and Bouts
The schedules shown above are provided as examples.
Actual schedules may vary depending on the event and category.
Accommodation
Full Program (Competition + Training Camp)
• Check-in: Friday, July 17
• Check-out: Wednesday, July 22 (5 nights)
An additional one-night extension is available upon request for an extra fee, with check-out on July 23.
Training Camp Only Plan
• Check-in: Monday, July 20
• Check-out: Wednesday, July 22 (2 nights)
An additional one-night extension is available upon request for an extra fee, with check-out on July 23.
Accommodation A (Camp Facility)
Seisa Hakone Sengokuhara Sports Club
817-255 Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan
Accommodation B (Camp Facility)
Hotel Kagetsuen
1244-2 Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan
Transportation between the accommodation facilities and the training venue will be provided on foot or by complimentary shuttle bus when necessary.
Room and hotel assignments cannot be selected by participants and will be arranged by the organizer. Additional accommodation facilities may be used depending on the number of participants.
Age Requirements
U8: Born in 2018–2019
U10: Born in 2016–2017
U12: Born in 2014–2015
U14: Born in 2012–2013
U17: Born in 2009–2011
Registration
Please apply via the “Apply Here” button located under the “Plans” section.
A variety of camp package plans are available.
Payment is available via online credit card processing (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, and Diners Club).
Registration Period
First Registration Period: Saturday, April 18, 2026 – Friday, May 15, 2026 (17:00)
Second Registration Period: Monday, May 18, 2026 – Friday, June 12, 2026 (17:00)
Dietary Requirements & Allergies
Participants with food allergies are kindly requested to inform us in advance. We are able to accommodate common dietary allergies; however, please note that we may not be able to fully accommodate severe food allergies.
If you have any dietary restrictions due to religious or other reasons, please notify us in advance.
General Information
Participants who have been advised by a physician or medical professional not to engage in sports activities, or who have been restricted from participating in fencing or general physical training, are not eligible to participate.
Coaches wishing to attend and stay on-site may do so under a dedicated accommodation plan. Please contact us for further details.
The schedule provided is for reference only. Actual schedules may vary depending on the event and age category.
Cancellations are permitted up to 30 days prior to the event. In such cases, a cancellation fee of 20% of the total payment will be deducted, and the remaining amount will be refunded. Cancellations made after this deadline are non-refundable, regardless of the reason.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely. Many participants join the program on their own or for the first time.
Our staff and coaches create a welcoming and supportive environment, helping all participants feel comfortable and engaged throughout the camp.
No rental equipment will be provided. Participants are required to bring their own fencing equipment.
For further details, please refer to the participant guide that will be sent prior to the event.
Due to scheduling and program constraints, each athlete may participate in only one event in both the competition and the training camp.
Cancellations are accepted up to 30 days prior to the event. In such cases, a cancellation fee of 20% of the total payment will be charged, and the remaining amount will be refunded. Cancellations made after this deadline are non-refundable, regardless of the reason.
Accommodation is arranged by the organizer in designated hotels or facilities near the venue. Room assignments and hotel allocation cannot be selected by participants and will be determined by the organizer based on availability and operational requirements.
Yes, family members of participating athletes and coaches are allowed to observe the event.
Spectators may only access the seating area on the second floor of the main arena. Please note that entry to the main arena, sub-arena, and other training areas where athletes are practicing is not permitted.
Yes. For participants registered under a meal-inclusive plan, three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided. For non-accommodation plans, only lunch will be provided.
Breakfast and dinner are served at the accommodation facilities, while lunch is provided as a boxed meal at the venue.
Please inform us in advance of any food allergies or dietary requirements. Please note that we may not be able to accommodate severe food allergies or certain dietary restrictions, including some religious or vegan diets.
The organizer takes the utmost care to ensure the safety and hygiene of the facilities and program. In the event that a participant becomes injured or ill, we will promptly coordinate with local medical institutions and provide appropriate support.
In the case of a natural disaster or other emergency requiring evacuation, participants will be guided to evacuation areas designated by the relevant authorities.
Emergency contact information for the day of the event will be provided to participants in advance.
In the event that a participant experiences illness or injury during the camp, they will be accompanied to the nearest hospital or clinic for medical evaluation. Emergency services will be contacted if necessary depending on the severity of the situation.
If a participant is diagnosed with influenza or any other infectious disease, or is otherwise deemed unable to continue participation, they may be required to isolate or be collected by a parent or guardian. In such cases, all related transportation costs shall be the responsibility of the participant or their guardian.
For minor injuries or sports-related conditions occurring at the venue, on-site support will be provided by the camp’s physiotherapy staff.
With the exception of certain accommodations, washing machines are not available at the accommodation or training facilities. Therefore, a daily laundry service is provided for participants registered under accommodation-inclusive plans. This service covers fencing uniforms (jacket and trousers), plastrons, and gloves only.
Laundry items will be washed and returned in a spin-dried condition to each accommodation facility. Participants are required to dry their items in their rooms.
MA-T disinfectant and deodorizing spray (A2Care) will be available at the venue for those who wish to use it.
Please note that laundry services do not cover T-shirts, tracksuits, socks, underwear, or towels. Participants are advised to bring sufficient changes of clothing.
Like you,
we are fAns of Fencing
EXDREAMSPORTS was founded by former Japanese national fencing team coaches and their staff.
With a team of highly experienced fencing master coaching specialists, EXDREAMSPORTS provides high-quality fencing tournaments, specialized private lessons for a wide range of age groups, and collaborative programs with multiple fencing clubs.
In addition, our team includes medical staff, allowing participants to train and compete with confidence and peace of mind at all times.
We are committed to helping you elevate your fencing skills through this exciting sport.
Contact
If you have any questions or inquiries, please feel free to contact us.
EXDREAM SPORTS Event Team