Knife Making: Forge Your Own Blade

Forge your own knife in Kyoto with expert guidance. Experience the thrill of blacksmithing and create a unique keepsake. Book your adventure today.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • studio NIN 八瀬 - This immersive experience offers a comprehensive understanding of “forging.” Participants will learn to use the tools and craft a knife following the traditional methods used in creating Japanese kitchen knives. It’s an unforgettable journey.
    This experience includes:
  1. Dress in a traditional goldsmith outfit for an authentic…
What's Included
  • A set of tools used to make knives
  • Uniform
  • English Guide
What's Not Included
  • Snacks
  • Private transportation
Additional Information

Our skilled instructors will guide you in crafting your knives in a straightforward manner, perfect for beginners. While some tasks may be hazardous, rest assured. The highlight of the experience is “forging,” where you will heat the iron until it’s hot and red, then repeatedly shape it with a hammer. We will provide detailed instruction on the proper…

Location
studio NIN 八瀬
We operate two forging studios in Sakyo Ward, provide the same facilities and experience. Unless noted otherwise, please head to "studio NIN Yase". Depending on reservation status, your session may take place at "studio NIN Kendo". If your location is changed, our staff will contact you in advance.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(114 Ratings)
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Adamd192
Jul 17, 2026
A+ Experience - Excellent experience for the whole family! Definitely a must on a visit to Kyoto.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
128conorb
Jul 2, 2026
Awesome experience! - Awesome experience; you work hard in each step in the process, but get direction the whole time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aaronn791
Jun 29, 2026
Amazing opportunity! - This was probably the favorite activity for my two sons (15 and 17) and I! We were expertly guided through the process of taking a steel blank and turning it into a knife that we could take home as a souvenir! The staff provided robes to wear OVER our own clothing (IMPORTANT because it is HOT... wear light clothing when you visit) and explained the different knives that we could chose to create. We then spent an hour hammering the metal into the appropriate shape while it was repeatedly inspected and reheated by our instructors who then provided guidance on where to work the metal next. When this was finished, we were taken to a belt sander and instructed on how to shape/sharpen the blades. Once completed, the instructors gave the blades a final sharpening before providing us with decorative cloth bags for transport. The entire experience was both exciting and educational... even for teen boys. It was a lot of work, so come prepared! You will leave sweaty and exhausted, but it is so worth it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Meredith_j
Jun 29, 2026
Unique family experience - Our family of 2 adults and 2 teens enjoyed this experience a lot. The two hosts spoke English very well. Despite the potential danger of working with very hot metal, the steps were very orderly and created a safe environment. As others have said, it is hard work, but the guides helped when needed. Our whole family really enjoyed this experience.
Review provided by Viator
Leslie_b
Jun 29, 2026
Wow - This was truly one of the most interactive experiences I've done anywhere in the world. You start with a small price of metal then forge it at over 1500 degrees. The forge area was obviously hot but not too uncomfortable so. The work was somewhat hard but very manageable and the staff will help as much or as little as you need. The sharpening and polishing part also so cool to see your knife really take form. The staff all spoke great english and was very good at their jobs. Beautiful location on the river and also great swords on sale for a reasonable price. Thank you
Review provided by Viator
Tony_t
Jun 26, 2026
Lots of manual labor, but... - Lots of manual labor, but worth it. Not easy to access, but organizers were very gracious and patient.
Review provided by Viator
Faith
Jun 21, 2026
Incredible Experience, Prepare for an Arm Workout - This was an incredible experience. We started by changing into our uniforms before heading downstairs to the forge. After a quick intro, we got to see them heat up the fire and heat the metal. We hammered the iron for about an hour before proceeding to sharpen them for another hour. Whenever we needed assistance or got tired, the staff was there to help and they were very friendly. It was fun taking part in a traditional Japanese knife making experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
H5973izdavidv
Jun 20, 2026
Great activity for a true Japan experience! - Instructors were very knowledgeable on the history of Japan knife and sword making. Great activity, I’m amazed we were able to turn the metal stock into a piece of art and a great tool. Instructors were very skilled and patient, highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gary
Jun 20, 2026
Good times forging a knive. - This was a fun and educational experience. Can’t wait to use my knive in the kitchen. The blacksmiths were very knowledgeable and fun.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Curiosity758734
Jul 9, 2026
A++++ - Went with my son. What a great experience!!! Love, Love, Love!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $152
up to 6 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).