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Overview
Dive into the centuries-old art of Japanese knife-making on this immersive walking tour in Sakai, one of Japan’s most renowned knife-producing towns. Explore historical craftsmanship, indulge in local sweets, and witness the transformation of raw blades into precision kitchen tools — with the chance to customize your own.
Highlights
- Visit a real knife factory with over 100 years of history
- Learn how to sharpen knives using traditional Japanese techniques
- Receive an introduction to Sakai’s famous handmade crafts and tools
- Enjoy a traditional sweet treat from an old-fashioned confectionery
- Explore the Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum
- Order your own customizable Japanese kitchen knife (optional)
- Choose between a private or group tour format
Full Description
Your journey begins at Nankai Sakai Station, just south of central Osaka. Meet your bilingual local guide, then enjoy a slow start with a visit to a retro sweet shop where you’ll sample a traditional snack that locals have loved for generations.
Next, stroll to the Sakai Traditional Crafts Museum, where you’ll explore exhibits showcasing the artisan heritage of Sakai. From handcrafted tools to knives, lacquerware, and textiles, the museum is a tribute to the city’s rich history.
The tour continues at Yamawaki Hamono, a legendary knife manufacturer that has been shaping blades for over a century. Step inside the sharpening station to observe the transformation of rough blades into culinary masterpieces. You’ll also visit the company’s main office, where you can browse and purchase their products — or even place a custom knife order with optional engraving.
One of the highlights is a hands-on sharpening lesson, where you’ll learn how to properly maintain and sharpen Japanese knives using authentic whetstone techniques passed down through generations.
Itinerary Overview
- Meet-up at Sakai Station (2 options: Group or Private Tour)
- Walk to traditional sweet shop – tasting and free time (20 minutes)
- Walk to Sakai City Traditional Crafts Museum – explore at your own pace (30 minutes)
- Walk to Yamawaki Hamono Knife Factory
- Knife production observation
- Sharpening workshop
- Custom order opportunity (1.5 hours)
- Walk back to Sakai Station
Pricing
From ¥10,000 JPY per person
Private and group tour options available
Includes
- Bilingual local guide
- Entry to the knife factory
- Knife sharpening technique workshop
- One traditional sweet from a local shop
- Visit to the Sakai Crafts Museum
- Time for shopping and optional knife orders
Note: Knife purchase and customization are optional and priced separately.
Meeting Point
Sakai Station
3 Chome Ebisujimacho, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka 590-0985, Japan
(Exact meeting spot confirmed after booking depending on tour type.)
Reviews
“Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable. We loved everything about the tour — especially seeing the craftsmanship firsthand.”
“An excellent tour. We learned a lot about Japan’s blade-making history and culture. The cinnamon mochi was a surprise highlight!”
“A fascinating and engaging experience. The guide’s passion really came through. Highly recommended if you’re interested in Sakai’s rich traditions.”
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