Private Sakai - Knife Artisan and Craft Walking Tour

Welcome to a one-of-a-kind journey through the heart of Sakai City's ancient art scene. As you arrive at the "Nankai Sakai Station" East Exit, you'll be greeted by your guide and led on a tour that delves deep into the local culture and history.

First, treat your taste buds to a delicious local delicacy - Cinnamon Mochi - at a traditional rice cake shop, with one sweet included for each guest. Then, it's time to explore the Sakai City Craft Museum, where you'll discover the city's rich legacy in the art of crafting.

But the highlight of your journey lies ahead - an exclusive visit to the prestigious Yamawaki Hamono Company, boasting a century-old legacy of crafting the finest Japanese cooking knives. Witness the raw blades arriving from the blacksmith and marvel at the traditional sharpening techniques that transform them into masterpieces of culinary art.

But the adventure doesn't end there - you'll get to practice the art of sharpening and learn how to take care of your knives. And if that's not enough, you can even order your own customized knives that you can watch being made right before your eyes!

This walking tour is a unique and unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the wonders of Sakai City's ancient craftsmanship and culinary heritage. Join us for an experience like no other!

Itinerary

Traditional Japanese Sweet Shop - Kick off your tour on a sweet note as we take you to a local cinnamon mochi (rice cake) shop. You'll get to indulge in a delicious sweet treat, with one sweet included for each guest.

Sakai City Craft Museum - Explore the fascinating history of Sakai City's ancient art scene at the Craft Museum. You'll discover the city's legacy in the art of crafting and gain insight into the unique culture of this vibrant city.

‍Yamawaki Sharpening Station - Step into the highly respected Yamawaki Hamono Company, which boasts over 100 years of history. Witness the raw blades arriving from the blacksmith and observe them being transformed into proper handmade cooking knives at the sharpening station.

‍Yamawaki Hamono Main Office - Get an exclusive peek into the main office of Yamawaki Hamono Company and learn about their century-old legacy in the art of knife-making.

‍Blade Sharpening Demonstration & Lesson - Learn and practice the traditional sharpening techniques used by Japanese knife artisans. You'll be able to take care of your own knives like a pro after this lesson.

‍Custom-made Knife Order (Optional) - You'll have the chance to order your own customized knives, which you can watch being made in front of you.

The tour includes a bilingual guide, one traditional mochi (Japanese sweet), a visit to the Sakai Knife & Craft Museum, a visit to the Yamawaki Knife Company, a Japanese knife sharpening lesson, and assistance with custom knife orders (which can only be done during the experience).

‍FAQ

1. Can I bring my own knives to be sharpened?
No, guests cannot bring their own knives to be sharpened. However, they will have the opportunity to learn traditional sharpening techniques and order their own customizable knives.

2. What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a bilingual guide, a visit to a traditional Japanese sweet shop, a visit to the Sakai City Craft Museum, a visit to the Yamawaki Sharpening Station and Hamono Main Office, a blade sharpening demonstration and lesson, and optional assistance with ordering a custom-made knife.

3. Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included in the tour. Guests must make their own way to the meeting point at the Nankai Sakai Station East Exit.

4. Is food included in the tour?
Yes, guests will receive one traditional Japanese sweet from a local sweet shop.

5. Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children, but please note that the knife sharpening demonstration and lesson may not be suitable for young children.

Key takeaways

The tour takes you on a journey through Sakai City's ancient art scene, including a visit to a traditional sweet shop, the Sakai City Craft Museum, and the Yamawaki Hamono Company.

The Yamawaki Hamono Company specializes in crafting Japanese cooking knives, and guests can witness the traditional sharpening techniques and even order customized knives during the tour.

The tour includes a bilingual guide, one traditional Japanese sweet, a sharpening demonstration and lesson, and assistance with ordering a custom-made knife.

Transportation to the meeting point at Nankai Sakai Station East Exit is not included.

The tour is suitable for children, but the knife sharpening demonstration may not be suitable for young children.

The tour may not be wheelchair accessible due to uneven surfaces and stairs.

The tour will take place rain or shine, and guests should bring appropriate clothing and footwear. A refund or rescheduling may be offered in the event of severe weather.

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