- Duration
- About 3 hours
- Group size
- 2–24 pax
- Cities
- Kyoto
- Indicative budget
- From ¥45,500 per person
The blacksmith first introduces the steel, the fire and the tools, then demonstrates each movement. Wearing goggles, gloves and an apron, participants then work their own small kitchen blade: heating it in the forge, hammering it on the anvil and shaping it. The master handles the delicate stages (quenching, final sharpening) while each person chooses an engraving of their name or a Japanese character and watches the handle being fitted. An interpreter translates instructions and conversation.
Japanese knife-making comes from a forging tradition passed down over centuries, and Kyoto long served as a centre for metal craftsmen supplying the court, temples and kitchens. The workshop shows, tool in hand, why these blades are so highly regarded: the choice of steel, the precision of the hammering and the patience required at every stage.
For companies, the activity suits small executive groups, top-performer clubs and incentive participants. Everyone leaves with a useful object they made themselves, far more memorable than a bought gift. Work is done in pairs or small teams around the blacksmith, which encourages mutual help and plenty of conversation, with a real sense of achievement at the end.
Objectives
- Give each participant a useful, personalised object they made themselves
- Build mutual support in small teams around a concrete challenge
- Experience the rigour of Japanese craftsmanship alongside a master
How it works
- 1Welcome at the workshop, safety briefing and protective gear.
- 2Introduction to steel, fire and tools; demonstration by the blacksmith.
- 3Each participant heats, hammers and shapes their blade, in pairs or small teams.
- 4Quenching and sharpening by the master; choice and engraving of the inscription.
- 5Handle fitting, presentation of the knives and group photo with the blacksmith.
Good to know
- A forge workshop takes 4 to 8 people at a time; up to 24, we organise rotations or several slots, combined with another activity.
- Wear closed shoes and long-sleeved cotton clothing; goggles, gloves and aprons provided. Minimum age is usually 12.
- The workshop is hot, especially in summer; breaks and water are planned.
- Knives travel in checked luggage only, never in the cabin; a sheath and packaging are provided, and delivery to the hotel or abroad is possible.
- The engraving (name, simple logo or Japanese character) is chosen on site; a company logo is prepared in advance.
Indicative budget
From ¥45,500 per person (private workshop, engraved knife included, small-group basis). Group rates quoted on request depending on headcount; interpreter, transfers and knife shipping optional.
Frequently asked questions
Do participants need metalworking experience?
No. The blacksmith guides every movement and handles the technical stages such as quenching and final sharpening. Participants simply follow the safety instructions and are comfortable working near the fire.
Can participants take the knife home on the plane?
Yes, in checked luggage only. The knife comes in a suitable sheath and packaging. For participants travelling with cabin baggage only, we arrange delivery to their home or office.
How does it work for a group of 20?
The group is split into sub-groups of 5 to 8 who take turns at the forge. Meanwhile, the others explore the neighbourhood or join another craft workshop, and everyone meets for the presentation of the knives.
Can we engrave our company logo?
A simple logo can be engraved if it is sent several weeks in advance so the result can be checked. The participant's name or a Japanese character chosen on site remains the most common option.
