3-DAY PROGRAM
3-Day Katana-Steel Knife Crafting
with Master Mikami
Craft a katana-steel knife with a master
Embark on an enthralling journey into the world of Japanese swordmaking led by Designated Master Swordsmith Mikami Sadanao, renowned as one of the foremost artisans in the craft, celebrated worldwide for his exceptional achievements. Mikami’s unparalleled expertise ensures an extraordinary experience as you immerse yourself in the artistry of knife crafting over three unforgettable days.
Under Mikami’s expert guidance, you’ll enjoy the exclusive opportunity to craft your very own knife from the katana-steel known as tamahagane—a tangible emblem of your voyage through the heart of Japanese craftsmanship. Take pride in bringing home this remarkable creation, painstakingly forged under the direction of a true master.
During your journey, you’ll also explore Mikami’s personal sword collection, each blade accompanied by its own unique story, shared by the master. Additionally, an armor fitting session at a historic site adds the final touch to your unforgettable swordmaking experience.
KEY FEATURES
Rare Access to a Renowned Master
Gain unique insight into Japanese sword making with a personal session led by a Designated Master Swordsmith, one of the few in Japan preserving this revered tradition.
Expert English Guide
Accompanied by knowledgeable English-speaking guides proficient in interpreting and assisting guests.
Unparalleled Insight
Enjoy an intimate viewing session of authentic Japanese swords curated by the master himself, accompanied by detailed explanations and historical context provided by the swordsmith.
3-DAY
2-NIGHT PLAN
DAY 1
JR Hiroshima Station
Gather at the designated location at Hiroshima Station to meet our guide. Together, travel to Kitahiroshima-cho, the setting for your three-day immersive experience.
Kitahiroshima-cho
Upon arrival at Kitahiroshima-cho, guests will check in and enjoy a delicious lunch while receiving an explanation of the upcoming experience. They will then change into traditional Japanese swordsmithing attire before heading to the nearby Master Mikami’s Forge. There, guests will participate in a hands-on session, witnessing traditional fold forging techniques, hearing stories from the master, and working with tamahagane, the material used to make Japanese swords.
Evening
In the evening, guests will dine at Hiroshima Kita Hotel, enjoying a delightful course meal featuring meat dishes tailored to their preferences. As night descends, they will delve into an Iaido/Kenshibu session, further enriching their cultural immersion
Included meals
Lunch:
Lunch at Hiroshima Kita Hotel offers both convenience and delicious food for your arrival.
Dinner:
At Hiroshima Kita Hotel, enjoy a course meal featuring a variety of dishes, with flexibility to accommodate their preferences.
Accommodation
Guests will stay at Hiroshima Kita Hotel, where cozy rooms feature Western-style bathrooms. Additionally, each room boasts a private Japanese onsen, providing a serene retreat after a day of exploration.
DAY 2
Master Mikami's Forge
The experience continues on the second day with the shaping of the steel, the making of the blades, and the quenching of the blades – a truly exciting highlight. With Master Mikami’s expert guidance, the journey flows seamlessly, and witnessing his unparalleled skills up close adds an exhilarating dimension. While guests may be tempted to try their hand at knifemaking on their own, the master’s assistance adds a touch of camaraderie and intrigue to their unforgettable adventure, and the knife is shaped in the image of their creations.
Evening
Indulge at Shiki no Ie Ayakura, an upscale Japanese creative cuisine restaurant with locally sourced ingredients. Share moments with Master Mikami, who delights in socializing and exchanging experiences. After two days of hard work, this will be an unforgettable memory.
Included meals
Breakfast:
Hiroshima Kita Hotel offers a diverse breakfast buffet with Western and Japanese options, giving guests choices.
Lunch:
Lunch features the local specialty, okonomiyaki, also known as Hiroshima’s soul food.
Dinner:
Dine at Shiki no Ie Ayakura, an upscale Japanese creative cuisine restaurant renowned for its dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Accommodation
At Hiroshima Kita Hotel in the same room as the first night.
DAY 3
Sengoku no Niwa History Museum
In the morning, finish the work at the forge by adding the final touches on the creation. After completing their own work, guests will visit the Sengoku no Niwa History Museum, while Master Mikami continues the last process of revealing layers in the base steel at the forge. At the museum, guests will don armor, take photos, and explore the site of the local feudal lord’s mansion. They will also receive a brief tour from the curator and have the opportunity to hold the raw-forged sword crafted by Master Mikami. Lunch will be provided.
Master Mikami's Forge
Return to the forge for a special sword appreciation session, led by Master Mikami, showcasing his meticulously crafted sword collection. After the viewing, each of the knives crafted by the guests is presented adorned and carefully stored in a unique box, reflecting the master’s dedication to his craft. As the afternoon nears its end, it’s time to bid farewell to Kitahiroshima-cho. Guests depart for Hiroshima Station, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and newfound appreciation for Japanese swordsmithing.
Included meals
Breakfast:
Buffet-style breakfast at Hiroshima Kita Hotel.
Lunch:
Offers a modest yet authentic glimpse into the samurai lifestyle.
Booking Flow
Contact Us
Inquiry
Our agent reaches out to gather your preferences and requests.
Provide Details
You share detailed information, preferences, or requests.
Schedule Meeting
We arrange a meeting to discuss your preferences.
Virtual Meeting
We conduct an online meeting to discuss and finalize details.
Proposal
We contact you to present the proposed itinerary for your review.
Confirmation
We contact you to confirm your satisfaction with the proposed itinerary.
Official Agreement
We finalize the official agreement with you.
Welcome
We greet you on the appointed date for the experience.
Detail
from JPY 770,000
Minimum number of participants：2
maximum allowed：6
- Ages 18-75, max of 6 per group
- Duration: 3 days
- Start time: Check availability
- Breakfast x 2
- Lunch x 3
- Dinner x 2
- Cultural experience: swordsmithing, museum tour, sword dance, armor fitting, working attire
- Accommodation-2 night
- Travel insurance
- Private transportation
- All Fees and Taxes
- Transportation fees between your home and Hiroshima Station
- Medical expenses related to disability and illness & Optional travel disability insurance premiums
- Personal expenses
Start:
JR HIROSHIMA STATION: Hiroshima Tourist Information – Located on the 2nd floor at the north end of the building.
1 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan
Meet our guide in front of the Tourist Information, easily identifiable by holding a sign that says “3-Day Katana-Steel Knife Crafting.”
End:
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
How much is the experience?
3-Day Katana-Steel Knife Crafting with Master Mikami price starts from ¥770,000.
RESERVE YOUR TRIP
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QUESTIONS?
Please contact our office anytime.
We are looking forward to planning your special tour.
+81 0826-82-2233