Step into the world of Japanese blade-making and create your own small Japanese knife under the guidance of a professional swordsmith in Kyoto.
In this hands-on workshop, you will experience traditional forging techniques in an authentic swordsmith workshop and make a one-of-a-kind handmade piece to take home as a memorable souvenir from Japan.
This workshop offers a rare opportunity to experience the techniques and atmosphere of traditional Japanese swordsmithing in a practical and accessible format.
Working alongside a professional artisan, you will shape heated steel, harden the blade, and complete your own handcrafted knife while learning about the tools and process used in Japanese blade-making traditions.
Whether you are interested in Japanese culture, craftsmanship, or unique travel experiences, this workshop offers a memorable and highly personal activity near Kyoto.
In this workshop, you will make a small Japanese knife, also known as a kogatana.
A kogatana is a compact traditional blade and is much smaller than a full-length katana sword. This experience focuses on the craftsmanship, forging process, and cultural background of Japanese blade-making through the creation of a small knife that you can take home on the same day.
During this approximately 4-hour workshop, you will go through key steps of traditional Japanese blade-making.
Please note: The meeting point is NOT Samurai Ninja Museum.
Meeting Point:
Ishishiki-32-1 Honmechō Nishikaya, Kameoka-shi, Kyoto 621-0255, Japan
This workshop takes place outside downtown Kyoto.
Most guests travel as follows:
There are usually taxis available outside Kameoka Station.
Important: Please do not get off at Namikawa Station, as taxis are difficult to find there.
After your payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email with the detailed meeting information. Please review it carefully before your visit.
・What do I make in this workshop?
You will make a small Japanese knife (kogatana).
・Do I make a katana sword?
No. This workshop is for making a small Japanese knife, not a full-size katana sword.
・How long does the workshop last?
Approximately 4 hours.
・Can I take home the item I make?
Yes. You can take home the knife you make on the same day.
・Can I add my name to the blade?
Yes. You may add your name or inscription during the workshop.
・Can guests observe the process?
Yes, observation may be possible for an additional fee. Please contact us after booking for details.
・What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly dirty.
・What is the age requirement?
Participants must be 10 years of age or older. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
・Can I join with a group?
Yes. Group bookings are welcome. Please contact us in advance if you have a group of 5 or more.
・Is there an English explanation?
Yes. The swordsmith explains the workshop in English. If you would like a bilingual interpreter, this may be arranged for an additional fee upon request.
・How do I check availability?
Please check the reservation calendar on the booking page, or contact us by email at cs@maikoya.com if you have any questions.
・Do you offer shipping services?
No, we do not offer domestic or international shipping. All items must be taken home on the day of the workshop.
・Is there any additional fee for extra participants?
One member of your party may receive free admission. For groups of two or more, a fee of ¥4,000 per person applies from the second participant onward.
This workshop is specially arranged with an external swordsmith.
Cancellations made less than 14 days in advance are 100% non-refundable
Rescheduling requests require at least 7 days’ notice
Requested new dates cannot be guaranteed, especially during peak seasons
Due to the swordsmith’s availability, we may occasionally need to request a change to your scheduled workshop date.
In rare cases, even after your reservation is confirmed, we may need to change or cancel the reservation in order to comply with national sword registration laws. Thank you for your understanding.
If you need to make changes to your reservation, please contact us at : cs@maikoya.com
We will do our best to assist you, subject to availability.
Join a rare hands-on workshop in Kyoto and discover the world of Japanese blade-making. Create your own small Japanese knife, enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional swordsmith workshop, and take home a special memory from your time in Japan. Please note that this experience takes place in Kameoka, Kyoto, not at Samurai Ninja Museum.
