How to Make Your Own Knife in Japan: Best Classes Guide

If:

• you have an interest in knives,
• you’re a cooking enthusiast or a chef who uses knives daily,
• or you appreciate craftsmanship with deep history,

then a knife-making experience in Japan is something you’ll love.

Visiting a forge and crafting a knife from raw steel is an experience for those with a true passion for the craft. Most forges are in the countryside, and workshops are more expensive and can last half a day or even a full day. But if you’re looking for something more accessible, there are also knife-making workshops in big cities where you can learn about Japanese blades, meet skilled artisans, and take home a knife of your own. Let me show you the best workshops currently available.

You might also like: 67 Unique Cultural and Traditional Things To Do in Japan where I introduce the best cultural experiences Japan has to offer.

Why are Japanese Knives so Popular?

Many knife enthusiasts dream of working alongside a master craftsman to make their own knife. And Japanese craftsmen and the knives they produce have a particularly high reputation.

First of all, Japanese knives are exceptionally sharp, durable, and lightweight. Made from high-quality steel, they hold their edge longer and allow for precise, clean cuts. Chefs appreciate their design too: thinner, sharper, and the handles are often wooden and lighter, giving better balance.

But they’re also popular because their craftsmanship is rooted in centuries of sword-making tradition. And knife enthusiasts appreciate and have a deep respect for this craftsmanship, making the knife all the more valuable. Over time, Japanese knives have become a symbol of great quality.

Choosing a Knife Making Class

When choosing a knife-making workshop in Japan, consider factors beyond just the location. Budget, class size, language support, and the workshop’s atmosphere play crucial roles in shaping your experience. Whether it’s a private session with a master blacksmith, a budget-friendly group class, or a workshop offering English support, each aspect contributes to making your knife-making journey unique and memorable.

Here is a video I made about a private knife making class in Osaka at Wada Shouten, offered through Wabunka (this workshop is part of my selection of the best workshops available in Japan, more info in the next section):

Where to Find Knife Making Courses in Japan

Below you will find the best classes where you can make your own knife in Japan, that you can book online. These workshops have different price ranges to satisfy all budgets. And for all of them, you will leave with a knife to take home with you. And don’t worry about airport security. It will be perfectly fine if the knife is packed in your checked-in baggage.

If you’ve read other articles on this blog, you know I particularly affectionate Wabunka as I constantly recommend them. I’ve been working in the Japanese travel industry for over seven years and they offer by far the best experiences I’ve ever seen. Except stated otherwise, all their experiences are private, meaning only your group will be there. You will be accompanied by a private guide-interpreter, allowing you to connect with the artisans (and Wabunka only works with the best artisans in Japan) on a much deeper level than any other experiences available on the market.

What to Expect During a Japanese Knife-Making Experience

Japanese knife-making workshops vary depending on the class you choose. Some take place in forges, where you’ll work with heated steel, while others focus on finishing techniques like sharpening and handle-making. Some even take place in museums, offering a more historical perspective. Here’s a general idea of what your session might include:

Introduction and Safety Briefing

• Classes often start with an introduction to Japanese knives, their history, and their role in craftsmanship and culture.
• If you’re working in a forge, you’ll get safety instructions on handling hot metal and sharp tools. If you’re in a shop or museum, the focus may be more on the materials and techniques used in traditional knife-making.

Demonstration by the Master

• In hands-on classes, a skilled blacksmith or artisan will demonstrate key techniques like forging, hammering, shaping, or sharpening.
• If your class focuses on finishing, you might watch a demonstration on how to refine an edge or attach a handle properly.

Hands-On Experience (Varies by Class)

• Forge-Based Classes: You might heat and hammer steel to shape a blade, working through the process step by step.
• Finishing Workshops: Some classes focus on sharpening a pre-made blade, polishing it, or attaching a handle using traditional techniques.
• Museum or Theory-Based Classes: These may offer interactive discussions or guided tours on the history and evolution of Japanese blades.

Final Steps

• If you’re crafting a knife, you might refine the blade, sharpen the edge, and possibly customize the handle.
• In sharpening workshops, you’ll learn proper whetstone techniques to maintain and enhance a blade’s edge.
• Some classes wrap up with a discussion on care and maintenance, ensuring your knife lasts for years to come.

Preparing for Your Knife Making Class

The best way to prepare depends on the type of class you’re taking:

Clothing

• Forge Classes: Wear long sleeves and pants made of cotton to protect against sparks. Closed-toe shoes are a must.
• Shop or Museum Classes: Comfortable clothing is fine, but avoid anything too delicate, as you may still handle sharp objects.

Safety Gear

• Forges will provide appropriate protection when needed. If you have personal preferences, bring your own.
• For sharpening or handle-making classes, expect to work with hand tools but not heavy equipment.

Hydration and Snacks

• Some sessions, especially forging, can last for several hours and be physically demanding. You can bring water and a light snack just in case, but most workshops will provide those for you.

Mindset

• Whether you’re forging steel or refining an edge, patience and attention to detail are key. Each step is a lesson in craftsmanship.

Questions and Curiosity

• If you’re interested in the history or techniques, ask! Masters and artisans are often eager to share their knowledge.

The Bottom Line

If you’re serious about making a knife in Japan, plan ahead. Some of the best workshops require booking a few weeks or ideally a couple of months in advance. Also, consider what kind of experience you want—full forging, sharpening, or handle-making—since each class offers something different.

And if a knife-making class isn’t in your budget, don’t worry. There are other hands-on crafts, like chopstick-making, that still let you engage with Japan’s craftsmanship without the higher price tag. Either way, taking part in a traditional workshop is one of the best ways to bring home something truly unique, whether it’s a knife, a skill, or just a great story.