About this tour
Learn traditional Japanese blacksmithing in Shimanto over eight hours, forging your own kitchen knife or scissors using centuries-old metalworking methods. Work alongside a master craftsperson to shape raw steel over fire, then personalise your creation with custom engraving. This hands-on encounter with kaji—the ancient art of blacksmithing—offers a genuine connection to Japanese artisanal heritage, far removed from digital convenience.
Highlights
- Forge a functional kitchen knife or scissors from raw steel
- Work directly with a master blacksmith in Shimanto
- Learn authentic Japanese metalworking techniques
- Engrave your finished piece with personal details
- Take home a handmade tool you've created
- All equipment and protective gear provided
- English-language instruction throughout
What to expect
You'll arrive at the workshop and receive a full safety briefing with protective gear fitted. The blacksmith walks you through heating, hammering, and shaping steel using traditional methods—expect genuine physical effort and heat from the forge. You'll work in stages: rough shaping, refinement, hardening, and finishing. Mid-way through, there's time to catch your breath and watch the master demonstrate advanced techniques. By hour six, your blade takes recognisable form. The final two hours cover sharpening and engraving, where you add initials or a date. You leave with a functioning, personal tool.
Good to know
Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes you don't mind getting grimy. The workshop gets hot; bring water. No food provided, so eat beforehand. Hotel pickup available for extra fee. Suitable for all fitness levels, though the work is physically engaging.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.