Blades of Steel: Japanese Knives, Museums, & Mochi in Sakai

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! Yaogen Raikodo Cinnamon Mochi: Founded more than 200 years ago, this shop serves traditional Japanese sweets with a Sakai city twist–cinnamon mochi. These age-old glutinous rice treats flavored with cinnamon are a Sakai City original, that’ll serve as the ideal sweet treat to kick off this tour. Sakai Knife and Craft Museum: The museum showcases an impressive collection of knives and bladed tools, ranging from traditional Japanese knives to contemporary creations. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the evolution of knife-making techniques, materials, and designs throughout the years. Yamawaki Knife Company: Established in the Showa Period, Yamawaki Knife Company is a bastion of the Japanese knife-making tradition spanning over a century of family history. Here, we delve deep into the heart of craftsmanship. We’ll visit the sharpening station, step into the main office, then venture to the second floor, where the hospitable staff welcomes us into their sanctum to give us a lesson in traditional knife sharpening. At the end, you have an (optional) opportunity to order and customize your very own knife! Select the blade type, handle, material, color, and get it engraved.