Witness the flames of katana tradition forged by a 5th-generation master swordsmith.
3 hour private experience
Location: Hakata Ward, Fukuoka
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the master
What you’ll do
Join a 5th-generation katana craftsman in his central Fukuoka forge as he works passionately to preserve is family’s tradition. Tour the workshop and see the space where samurai swords come to life.
Who can attend
Children must be 7+
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (09:00-12:00)
Session 2 (13:00 - 16:00)
Access
7 minutes taxi ride from Fukuoka Station or 4 minutes walk from Sanno 1 Chrome Bus Stop
Deep Cuts
The Japanese katana blade is not only a weapon but a craft, a symbol of status, and a bearer of tradition. With roots back to the 700s, katana emerged in the feudal Japan landscape where long bows and spears were the weapons of choice. As the katana’s popularity grew among samurai, the katana began to take on the role of a symbol of status—a swordsman’s name would be inscribed into the blade, in a process known as meikiri. By the relatively peaceful Edo Period, katana had become widely prized for their sharp blades and their beauty, becoming gifts, exports, and even Shinto symbols. Nobuyasu-san and his family workshop have continued this long tradition of katana swordsmithing and meikiri for five generations. Located by Hakata Station, this historic iron factory predates the surrounding neighborhood and connects with Fukuoka’s rich tradition of iron manufacturing. Join Nobuyasu-san and his family for a tour of the factory, see the history of the katana, and assist in forging your own traditional, inscribed blade.
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.
