Witness how katana blades are forged from steel and fire by a master swordsmith
3 hour private experience
Location: Imari City, Saga
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the master
What you’ll do
Learn about the history and production techniques of forging katana blades from a master swordsmith. Observe different parts of the smithing process firsthand. Guided by the master, carefully examine two types of blades to understand the intricate characteristics of Japanese katana.
Who can attend
Children must be 11+
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (13:00 - 16:00)
Unavailable from December 24th to March 31st. Bookings during the summer season can be accommodated with caution for high temperature.
Access
15 minutes from Imari station
Hand Forging Techniques, Handed Over For Generations
An explosion of sparks, the hiss of hot metal thrust into cold water, and the laborious huffs of a self-operated furnace greet visitors to this steel forge, tucked into a quiet village located in Saga Prefecture. Operated by Naomasa, a diligent and skilled katana swordsmith who trained under the iconic Sadanao, this active workshop prioritizes a mix of precise techniques combined with centuries of culture to sustain Japan’s long-standing tradition of forging katana blades. A respected art but a vanishing craft, currently only approximately 150 swordsmiths remain active in Japan, a heritage that Naomasa staunchly contributes to. In addition to extensive training in full-length katana swords, Naomasa also specializes in crafting mamori-gatana, a revered, compact blade often used in funeral rites and as a talisman for spiritual protection that generally reaches no longer than 25cm in length. Feel the flame and unyielding devotion to this fierce craft up close during this Kyushu katana observational experience.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 14 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
