Experience traditional knife making in Kyoto

I had an amazing experience taking this knife making class. The instructor was knowledgeable, patient, and made the entire process approachable, even for a beginner. From start to finish, everything was well-organized and hands-on, which made it both fun and rewarding. Walking away with a custom knife that I made myself was incredibly satisfying. I’d highly recommend this class to anyone interested in learning a new skill or trying something unique in Kyoto.

I had a great time making my own knive! You can choose between two different options and I chose the nagiri knive (2,000¥ extra), which is mainly used for cutting veggies. My instructor Jessie did a great job explaining every step and contrary to my inital thoughts, making the knive was pretty easy and fun! I would definitely recommend!

We had an incredible experience making our own knife with Lu. From the moment we arrived, he was welcoming, patient, and clearly passionate about his craft. He explained the history, science, and techniques behind Japanese knife making in a way that was easy to understand and genuinely fascinating. What impressed me most was how hands-on the experience was. We shaped, sharpened, and finished a knife we’ll actually use for years to come. By the end, I felt confident not only owning a quality Japanese knife, but also knowing how to sharpen and maintain it at home. Making this knife alongside my dad made the experience even more meaningful. If you’re looking for an authentic, interactive experience that’s more memorable than another sightseeing stop, don’t miss this. Highly recommend!

A really nice experience. We learned how to professionally sharpen our knives and personalized them with laser printing. Our guide was incredibly attentive and helpful.

Very nice experience and value for money experience. Our instructor was Lu he helped us understand the process and also gave very good recomendations about several questions we had. Keep in mind if you book this experience the workshop is located 3rd floor of the building indicated in Google Maps.

they teach you how to sharpen a pre made blade. then you can get them to engrave whatever you want on the wooden handle. then you can keep the knife. it's in a big craft room with about 5 other different craft classes happening. The instructor was good, gave clear instructions to everyone.

First time in Kyoto and had to stop by to do this activity with my family. Our teacher Yo was very friendly and knowledgeable, and was a great instructor. Highly recommend if you're nearby the Nishiki markets area and looking for something fun to do while resting your feet from all the walking. Our teen boys enjoyed it heaps too!

Had a fantastic time learning how to properly sharpen a knife with whetstones and got to keep the knife. Definitely recommend if you plan on buying knives in Japan! Thank you Haru!

Wife and I did the Knife workshop with Cody. Cody was a GREAT guide, teaching us how to use the different whet stones to sharpen & polish a fine knife edge. you can choose from 2 different carbon steel blades: Santoku or block cleaver blade. Once the blade edges were honed and polished, Cody taught us how to install the handle and decide what inscription we wanted to have on the knife handles. FUN experience with souvenirs that you can actually use at home 👍

It was our first time sanding a knife and would definitely recommend! Ricardo was a very kind and helpfull instructor!! We’re very happy taking our personalized knifes back home with us :)