Forge Your Own Kogatana: A Unique Kyoto Swordsmithing Experience
Embark on a Timeless Tradition
Dive deep into the heart of Japanese swordsmithing and forge your own kogatana, a small Japanese blade. Under the expert guidance of a renowned Kyoto artisan, you'll learn traditional techniques and create a unique piece of history.
What to Expect:
- Hands-on Experience: Learn and practice traditional Japanese swordsmithing techniques.
- Expert Guidance: Work alongside a skilled artisan in an authentic Kyoto forge.
- Personalized Creation: Customize your kogatana with your own inscription.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Japanese swordsmithing.
Your 4-Hour Journey:
- Hidukuri (火造り): Shape the iron into a knife form using charcoal heat and hand tools.
- Yakinamashi (焼きなまし): Heat the iron to 700°C and cool it with straw charcoal to prepare it for the next step.
- Tuchitori (土取り): Apply soil to mark areas for differential hardening during quenching.
- Meigiri (銘切り): Carve your name onto the blade (optional).
- Yakiire (焼入れ): Harden the blade edge by heating it to 750°C and quenching it in water.
Ideal for:
- History enthusiasts
- Culture lovers
- Unique travel experiences
- Gift seekers
---Frequently Asked Questions---
＊General Information
- How long does the workshop last?
- Can I take home the knife I make?
- Yes, you can take it home immediately after the workshop.
- Can guests observe the process?
- Yes, for an additional fee. Please contact us after booking for more details.
- What should I wear?
- Comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting slightly dirty.
＊Booking and Participation
- What is the age requirement to participate in the workshop?
- Participants must be 10 years of age or older. Those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- How can I check the availability?
- Please contact us via our contact form or by phone to check availability.
- Can I participate with a group?
- Yes, group bookings are welcome. Please contact us in advance if you have a group of 5 or more people.
＊Workshop Details and Logistics
- Is there an English explanation?
- Yes, the swordsmith provides all explanations in English and is fluent in the language. While his English is not at a native level, participants have consistently found it clear and understandable. If you have detailed questions or would prefer a bilingual interpreter, we can arrange one for a fee upon request—just let us know in advance. To date, we’ve received no complaints about the swordsmith’s English from the thousands of participants who have enjoyed this experience.
- What is your cancellation policy?
- Katana FORGING Experiences: Full payment is non-refundable unless canceled or changed at least 14 days in advance, with a 5% fee for early notifications.
＊Please be aware that one member of your party will receive free admission. For groups of two or more, a fee of ¥4,000 per person will apply from the second individual onward.
＊Upon completion of your payment, you will receive a confirmation email. Please carefully review the email for the detailed meeting location.
＊Due to the availability of our swordsmiths, we may need to request a change to your scheduled workshop date.
