Authentic Knife Making Experience at a Blacksmith in Kyoto

Forging a knife in the heart of Kyoto’s historic district can be a captivating experience. Participants in this hands-on workshop don traditional attire as they learn ancient techniques from a skilled instructor, Mao. Over three hours, they’ll shape, sharpen, and polish their own 13-15 cm blade – a practical keepsake to take home. With safety as the top priority, this immersive cultural encounter offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s renowned knife-making artistry.

Key Points

1. The knife-making experience lasts 3 hours and includes learning traditional Japanese techniques under the guidance of an expert instructor, Mao.
2. Participants will forge, sharpen, and polish a practical 13-15 cm knife entirely from iron, creating a handcrafted creation they can take home.
3. The experience is limited to 6 participants, available in English and Japanese, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
4. Participants will dress up in traditional costumes as part of the experience, which emphasizes the pride and skill of handcrafting a knife.
5. Safety practices are prioritized throughout the experience, and participants must be at least 15 years old and accompanied by an adult.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

The authentic knife-making experience at a blacksmith in Kyoto lasts 3 hours and is priced from Kč 3,522 per person.

The small group size is limited to 6 participants, with English and Japanese as the available languages.

Participants can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Reserve now & pay later option allows booking without upfront payment.

The experience provides a unique opportunity to learn traditional Japanese knife-making techniques, including forging, sharpening, and polishing, under the guidance of an instructor with over 10 years of experience in knife sharpening.

Traditional Japanese Knife-Making Techniques

During this authentic knife-making experience, participants learn traditional Japanese techniques, including dressing up in traditional costumes.

They forge, sharpen, and polish their knives, guided by instructor Mao’s expertise of over 10 years in knife sharpening.

The key processes involve forging the iron using traditional methods to create a practical knife, approximately 13 to 15 centimeters in size, suitable for everyday use or as a gift.

Participants enjoy the satisfaction of handcrafting their own knife entirely from iron, without any wooden handles, through this immersive cultural experience.

Forging, Sharpening, and Polishing

As participants arrive at the blacksmith’s studio, they’re outfitted in traditional costumes to prepare for the hands-on knife-making experience. Under the guidance of expert instructor Mao, the group learns the intricate steps of forging, sharpening, and polishing their knives.

Process	Description
Forging	Participants use a hammer and anvil to shape the hot iron into the desired blade form.
Sharpening	Using whetstones, they carefully hone the edge to achieve a razor-sharp finish.
Polishing	The final step involves meticulously polishing the blade to a gleaming, mirror-like surface.

The participants take great pride in crafting their own practical, everyday-use knives through these traditional techniques, creating a unique and memorable experience.

Skilled Instructor Mao

Veteran knife sharpener Mao leads the authentic knife-making experience, drawing on over a decade of expertise in the craft.

Mao’s extensive knowledge shines through as he guides participants through the forging, sharpening, and polishing processes.

Here are three key highlights of Mao’s instruction:

1. Hands-on Approach: Mao actively engages with each participant, providing personalized guidance and feedback throughout the knife-making journey.

2. Skill Demonstration: Mao showcases his mastery of traditional techniques, allowing participants to learn from his exceptional knife-sharpening skills.

3. Safety Focus: Mao ensures a safe environment, emphasizing proper safety practices to help participants navigate the potentially dangerous tasks with confidence.

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Creating a Practical Knife

Participants create a practical knife, approximately 13 to 15 centimeters in size, suitable for everyday use or as a gift.

Using traditional Japanese techniques, they forge, sharpen, and polish the knife entirely out of iron, without any wooden handles.

The process involves key steps like dressing up in traditional costumes.

Participants take home their handcrafted knife, which they can use or give as a special gift.

This experience allows them to appreciate the skill and artistry behind Japanese knife-making, guided by instructor Mao’s expertise of over 10 years in knife sharpening.

Safety and Restrictions

The experience involves potentially dangerous work, so participants assume responsibility for any injuries or accidents. Certain restrictions apply:

1. The activity isn’t suitable for children under 15 years old, who must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

2. Individuals over 95 years old are also ineligible to participate.

3. Participants must bring socks, and the use of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited.

Safety is paramount, and the instructors ensure effective practices are followed throughout the knife-making process.

Meeting Location and Accessibility

The studio where the knife-making experience takes place is Studio NIN, located at 16 Shugakuin Daido-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, 606-8037.

The studio is easily recognizable by its large gate and a flag featuring the Shuriken logo.

The road in front of the studio is narrow, but accessible by taxi.

Participants should note that the studio is situated in an older building, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship that defines the knife-making experience.

With clear directions and accessibility, guests can conveniently reach the studio and enjoy the authentic knife-making workshop.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

According to customer reviews, the authentic knife-making experience in Kyoto has received an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 7 reviews.

Participants highlighted the friendly and skilled staff, the enjoyable forging process, and the satisfaction of taking home a handcrafted knife. Some wished for longer grinding sessions to better shape the blade.

However, the reviews emphasize the welcoming atmosphere and effective safety practices during the experience.

Key highlights include:

1. Positive feedback on the knowledgeable instructors and enjoyable forging process.
2. High satisfaction in creating a practical, handcrafted knife.
3. Appreciation for the safe and welcoming environment.

FAQ

Can Participants Take Their Knife Home After the Experience?

Yes, participants can take home the knife they create during the experience. The activity details state that you will make a practical knife that’s suitable for everyday use or as a gift.

Are There Any Age Restrictions Beyond the 15-Year Minimum?

The experience is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old. Participants under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Is There a Storage Facility for Belongings During the Workshop?

The experience does not provide a dedicated storage facility for participants’ belongings. Attendees are advised to bring only essential items and leave valuables at home, as the studio does not have secure storage options available during the workshop.

Can Participants Customize the Design of Their Handcrafted Knife?

Participants cannot customize the design of their handcrafted knife. The knives are made entirely using traditional methods, with no option for personalization. The size and shape are predetermined by the instructor to ensure a functional, everyday-use knife.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Additional Tools or Supplies?

Participants can purchase additional tools or supplies related to knife making, such as specialized sharpening stones or decorative handles, to further customize their handcrafted knives or continue their knife-making journey after the experience.

Sum Up

This hands-on workshop in Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich tradition of Japanese knife-making. Participants can expect a captivating and educational experience, guided by a skilled instructor Mao, as they forge, sharpen, and polish their own practical knife to take home. With a focus on safety and craftsmanship, this intimate class provides an authentic glimpse into ancient techniques, making it a must-try for anyone interested in traditional Japanese artistry.

You can check if your dates are available here: