Craft a culinary knife with a 7th-generation knife smith in the heart of Kyoto
2.5 hour private experience
Location: Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Tour the forge of a 7th-generation knife smith, while learning about the history of the forge and the craft. Then, under guidance of the master knifesmith, cut and hammer a knife in the shape of your own choosing.
What to wear
Since you will be working with red-hot iron and hammering, please wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. (Shorts, heels, and sandals are not permitted.)
Aprons, goggles, gloves, etc. will be provided.
Who can attend
Children must be 10+
What else you should know
Workshop Precautions
The blacksmith's workshop is well ventilated, but fire will be used, so it will get hot and smokey.
Please exercise caution if you have sensitive respiratory tracts or are feeling unwell.
While the work is simple, we cannot guarantee against damage to clothing, injuries, or burns during the workshop.
Thank you for your understanding.
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (10:00-12:00)
Session 2 (13:00-15:00)
Session 3 (15:00-17:00)
Unavailable on holidays and New Year's holidays
Access
20 minutes by car from Kyoto Station
Carrying on the Craft
As the need for the crafting of katana decreased, katana smiths began to turn their craft towards other bladed tools, especially kitchen knives and scissors. Situated in the midst of the city of Kyoto, this knife forge is descended from one such katana smith, and now, it is the workshop of the 7th-generation knifesmith who works painstakingly to craft the tools of his fellow artisans. Alongside his usual wares of various kitchen knives, from santoku to nakiri to small petty knives, and scissors used in ikebana flower arrangement, this master knifesmith takes custom orders from artisans and craftspeople who need their craft-specific bladed tools repaired or remade. Enter the forge and try your hand at shaping a knife, under the guidance of the master, and experience firsthand the refined techniques passed down through generations.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
