Kyoto: Japanese Knife Making Workshop with Blacksmith Mao

Summary

Hands-on forging in Kyoto’s blacksmith studio with expert guidance

You’ll step into a real Kyoto blacksmith studio, suit up in traditional gear, and learn how to forge your own Japanese kitchen knife from scratch with expert help from Mao-san. From striking hot iron to sharpening your finished blade, every step is hands-on — with plenty of laughs (and maybe some clumsy moments) along the way.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked under the low doorway at Studio NIN — I still had my backpack on, which was a mistake — and right away the air smelled like warm metal and something faintly sweet, maybe from the old wooden beams. Mao-san greeted us with a nod and handed out these heavy cotton jackets, the kind you see in old photos of craftsmen. My sleeves kept sliding down over my hands. He showed us the tools: hammers lined up like soldiers, tongs, a block of iron glowing red in the furnace. I was nervous about messing up but he just smiled and said, “Don’t worry. Everyone starts here.”

The first time I hit the hot steel it made this sharp ringing sound — not what I expected at all. The hammer vibrated right through my arm. Mao-san watched me try to find a rhythm (I didn’t), then took over for a second to show how it’s done: quick, precise strikes, nothing wasted. There was this quiet patience about him; he’d correct my grip or angle with just a gentle tap on my wrist. At one point he tried to teach me how to say “forging” in Japanese — I completely butchered it and he laughed so hard he had to put his hammer down.

By the time we started sharpening our knives, there were little curls of steam rising off the wet stone, and my hands smelled like iron and soap. It felt good though — focused, almost meditative. The other people in our group were all beginners too; one woman from Canada managed to get her blade shinier than mine and teased me about it for the rest of the session. When we finished polishing, Mao held each knife up to the light like he was checking for secrets inside them. Mine wasn’t perfect but honestly? I still think about that moment when I saw my own reflection in the blade.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Traditional Japanese knife making experience

• Change into traditional goldsmith outfit
• Learn traditional knife making process
• Practice forging with hammer
• Sharpen the knife
• Polish the finished knife

Top questions

How long does the Kyoto knife making workshop last?

The experience takes about 2.5 hours from start to finish.

Is this knife making class suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners are welcome and all steps are taught clearly by Mao-san.

Where is Studio NIN located in Kyoto?

You’ll be told before your visit whether you should go to Studio NIN Yase or Studio NIN Kendo; both are in Kyoto.

What size knife will I make?

The finished knife is usually between 13 to 15 centimeters long.

Are children allowed at this blacksmith experience?

Children under 15 can join if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

What’s included in the Kyoto blacksmith workshop?

You get all tools needed for forging, a traditional uniform, and an English-speaking guide.

Is lunch included during this activity?

No meals are included; only the workshop experience itself is provided.

Can I take photos or videos during the class?

Yes, video and photography are allowed throughout your session.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all tools needed for forging your own Japanese kitchen knife, a traditional craftsman’s uniform that you’ll wear during the session, plus guidance in English from Mao-san himself before you head home with your handmade blade.