Authentic knife making experience at a blacksmith in Kyoto

Through this hands-on experience, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of forging, learn how to use traditional tools, and create your own knife using the same techniques employed in crafting Japanese kitchen knives.

Duration

3 hours

Free cancellation

up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

Cancellation Policy


Free cancellation

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience's start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience's start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience's start time will not be accepted.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it's canceled because the minimum isn't met, you'll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Last Minute Availability

Select participants and date

Maximum 4 participants allowed for this slot.

Highlights

  • You can take home a practical and authentic knife.
  • The knife you made is perfect as a gift or for everyday use.
  • You can experience blacksmithing, which is extremely rare even in Japan.
  • It's conveniently located just a minute's walk from the nearest station.

Included

  • Costume
  • Towel
  • Water
  • Tools
  • Materials
  • Box
  • Bag

Meeting Point

The meeting place is Studio Shinobi YASE (168-1 Yase-no-secho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, 601-1254). It is a one-minute walk from the Yase-Hieizan Exit of the Eizan Electric Railway. We recommend coming by train. Taxis are also available.

Full Description

What You Will Experience

  1. Arrival & Welcome
    Check in at the studio and meet your instructor, Mao, a professional knife maker with over 10 years of experience.

  2. Traditional Attire
    Change into authentic Japanese blacksmith clothing to fully immerse yourself in the forging experience.

  3. Tools, Safety & Process Overview
    Learn how to safely use blacksmithing tools and understand the traditional knife-making process.

  4. Heating & Forging the Blade
    Heat raw steel in the furnace until red-hot, then forge your blade under Mao’s close guidance, learning proper hammering techniques.

  5. Cooling, Shaping & Sharpening
    Cool and refine the blade, then sharpen it using stones and grinders to create a functional edge.

  6. Polishing & Completion
    Polish your knife to a clean finish. Your handmade blade (approximately 13–15 cm) is ready to take home. Photos and videos are welcome.

  7. Wrap-Up & Q&A
    Ask final questions about knife care, techniques, or blacksmithing history.

Additional Notes:
• Participants under 15 must be accompanied by a guardian
• Larger knives require over 5 hours and cost more than $400; this workshop follows a 2.5-hour format

Know Before You Go

  • Some of the experiences include work that involves danger. In the unlikely event that an injury or accident occurs, the customer will be responsible. Thank you for your understanding.

What to bring:

  • Socks

Not allowed:

  • Alcohol and drugs
Not suitable for:
  • Children under 15 years
  • People over 95 years
 

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169.42

Per Person

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Carrie Byrne

Booked: Authentic knife making experience at a blacksmith in Kyoto

The tour guide was very friendly and professional. Made the journey memorable.

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Per Person

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