Forge Your own Knife from Katana-steel with a Master Swordsmith

Join a captivating three-day workshop with Mikami Sadanao, a recognized Master Swordsmith, and delve into the ancient art of Japanese swordmaking. Under Mikami's guidance, you will learn to craft your own knife using tamahagane, the same type of steel used to make katanas. This hands-on experience not only teaches you the skills of traditional sword crafting but also lets you take home a unique knife—a symbol of your journey into this meticulous art form.

The adventure doesn't end at the forge. You will have the chance to view Mikami's own collection of swords, each with its own history and tales that he will share. The experience is further enriched with an armor-fitting session at a historical site, where you can step back in time and get a feel for the samurai armor. This tour offers a rare glimpse into the world of authentic Japanese swordsmithing, making it a truly memorable experience.

Tour Highlights

• Create a knife from katana-steel with guidance from Master Swordsmith Mikami Sadanao

• Discover Mikami's personal sword collection and their unique stories

• Participate in an armor fitting at a historical site

• Engage in traditional swordsmithing and explore Japanese cultural practices

• Benefit from hands-on learning with a world-renowned artisan

• Experience the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Japan

What’s Covered

• Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• Swordsmithing, museum tour, sword dance, armor fitting

• Necessary workshop attire provided

• Comfortable accommodation

• Insurance

• Private transport for all activities

• All taxes and entry fees

What’s Extra

• Transportation fees between your home and Hiroshima Station

• Medical Costs

• Personal Spending

Tour  Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Sword Crafting

• Greeting and Orientation: Begin your journey with a warm welcome and an overview of the upcoming experience.

• Beginning Ceremony and Initial Crafting: Start the fire ("Hiokoshi") and commence the forging and folding process ("Orikaeshi-tanren").

• Iaido Kenshibu Demonstration: Witness a traditional Japanese sword dance showcasing the elegance and precision of the samurai arts.

• Dinner and Stay at Hiroshima Kita Hotel: Enjoy a delightful Japanese cuisine dinner with Master Mikami at the Hiroshima Kita Hotel, followed by a restful night.

Day 2: Deepening Your Crafting Skills

• Morning Crafting Session: Learn the technique of drawing out the steel ("Sunobe") to form the blade length.

• Shaping the Blade: Engage in hammering the steel into the shape of a Japanese blade ("Hizukuri").

• Lunch: Savor a traditional meal, either at Suizentei Michizure or with Hiroshima's famous Okonomiyaki.

• Afternoon Crafting Session: Continue refining your blade, working on its precise shape and form.

• Dinner and Stay at Hiroshima Kita Hotel: Relish another evening of Japanese cuisine at Shikinoie Ayakura, and unwind at the hotel.

Day 3: Finalizing Your Masterpiece and Cultural Exploration

• Morning Crafting and Etching: Focus on the detailed process of scraping and etching the blade ("Kezuridashi").

• Guided Tour and Armor Fitting: Visit the Sengokunoniwa Museum, explore historical artifacts, and experience wearing traditional samurai armor.

• Finishing Touches and Boxing: Complete your knife with the final touches and prepare it for presentation.

• Dinner and Stay at Hiroshima Kita Hotel: Conclude your crafting journey with a final night at the Hiroshima Kita Hotel.

• Optional Stay at Kyoya Ryokan: Extend your experience with a stay at a traditional Japanese inn, Kyoya Ryokan, for an authentic cultural finish.

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• This tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers and requires mobility for participation.

• Pets, infants, and those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers are advised against joining due to the physically demanding nature of the activities.

• The forge environment and tool usage involve potential risks like eye injuries, burns, and cuts. We provide necessary safety gear and supervision.

• The forging area can become very hot. We supply water to keep you hydrated and prevent heat-related issues.

• The tour price includes insurance for any injuries incurred during the knife-making process. Contact us for more information.

• We can accommodate specific dietary preferences or restrictions. Please inform us in advance.

• This experience requires patience and concentration, providing a deep dive into the meticulous work of a master swordsmith.

Meeting point

Hiroshima Tourist Information

732-0822 Hiroshima

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any prior experience in metalworking or crafting?

No prior experience is required. Master Mikami and his team will guide you through every step of the process, making it accessible to beginners as well as those with some crafting background.

Can children participate in this tour?

This experience is designed for adults due to the physical and safety requirements involved in swordsmithing. It is not suitable for young children, and we recommend participants be at least 18 years old.

What happens if I need to cancel my booking?

Our cancellation policy provides a 50% refund if you cancel up to 6 days before the start of the tour. Cancellations made within 2 days of the event are non-refundable. For more flexible options, please contact us directly.

Can I take my crafted knife home?

Absolutely! The knife you forge will be yours to keep. It serves as a unique and personal memento of your journey into Japanese craftsmanship.

Related Read: Hands-On Workshops for Artisanal Souvenirs in Japan