Blades of Steel: Japanese Knives, Museums, and Mochi in Sakai
Blades of Steel: Japanese Knives, Museums, and Mochi in Sakai
From
10 meals
Explore one of Japan’s top knife-producing regions on this walking tour of Sakai (Osaka). Visit a historic local sweets shop, the Sakai Knife and Craft Museum, then tour the Yamawaki Knife Factory.
Highlights
Try cinnamon mochi at Yaogen Raikodo, a local specialty
Explore the Sakai Traditional Knife and Crafts Museum
Tour Yamawaki Knife Company, watch professionals at work, and learn knife-sharpening techniques
Order a custom-made knife at Yamawaki Knife Company (optional)
10 meals
Experience Details
The period from March 6 to April 6, 2026 will only be for the blacksmith, including Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with the knife maker rate, which is a nice discount. Thank you for your understanding.
Step into the world of high-quality, professional Japanese knives with this walking tour in Sakai City, Osaka.
Sakai ranks among Japan's three prominent regions known for the craftsmanship of high-quality knives and bladed tools. While the city is most recognized for its steel-forward craftsmanship, there are plenty of other sights worthy of a visit!
During this guided tour, you’ll visit a 200+ year old shop selling cinnamon mochi (a regional specialty), explore the Sakai Knife and Craft Museum, then enter the prestigious walls of the Yamawaki Knife Company for a tour, knife sharpening lesson, and a special opportunity to order a custom-made knife!
Wednesdays: Blacksmith
Get the privilege to enter a real blacksmith workshop in Sakai and interact with the craftsman directly. Learn deeply about the blade crafting process, and get the chance to test your hammering skills with the assistance of the blacksmith.
Possibility to buy the blacksmith creations directly on site, which are sometimes ordered months in advance by some of the most prestigious chefs all around the world.
Tuesday and Thursdays - Knife maker
Visit a knife maker with over 100 years of history under the same name, where the raw blades arrive directly from the Blacksmith. Visit the Sharpening Station and the main office.
Observe the blades being turned into proper handmade cooking knives. Learn and practice the traditional Sharpening techniques with a professional and get the chance to order your customizable knife, or knives, if you request it.
What You Get
Good To Know
- This tour starts strictly on time, due to the various stops/related timing involved
- If you’re running late and are unable to make it to the meeting point by departure time, the tour will begin without you and a refund won’t be issued
- Please make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time to avoid unexpected delays
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Meet your host at the East Exit of Nankai Sakai Station, in front of the gates. More information and a Google Maps link will be shared upon booking.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 48 hours before the experience start time to receive a full refund.
Experience Location
Osaka Prefecture is the birthplace of Kansai-style okonomiyaki and many classic Japanese street foods. Centered around Osaka (the prefectural capital), the clash of trade, traditions, and modern technologies contributes to the dynamic energy of this prefecture overlooking Osaka Bay.
The tour was great. As we walked from location to location, the guide provided a good beginners guide to the history of Sakai and how it was influenced by the Western world and eventually became t...read more
The timing is pretty scheduled for this tour. The time at the museum felt a little rushed, but overall really interesting. Our guide was funny and knowledgeable, and honest when he didn't know the ...read more
Great experience by Remi and his team at Japan Tour Adventure. Due to a national holiday, the knife company was closed. However, Remi and his team arranged for a unique experience with a local blac...read more
Absolutely great experience. Remi was a wonderful guide who explained the history and significance of Sakai before taking us to a small store which sells what is likely to the best mochi I've eve...read more
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat local treat will I try during the tour?
Which museums and workshops are included in the tour?
What can I do at the Yamawaki Knife Company?
Can I order a custom-made knife during the tour?
