What’s in a Name: Learning the Family Tradition of Katana Swordsmithing and Name Inscription

Details

• Private experience

• Location: Hakata Ward, Fukuoka

• 3 hours

• 8 people max. Minimum of 2 participants required.

• Offered in Japanese, with friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in English
  (French/German/Spanish interpretation may be available upon request)

Deep Cuts

The Japanese katana blade is not only a weapon but a craft, a symbol of status, and a bearer of tradition. With roots back to the 700s, katana emerged in the feudal Japan landscape where long bows and spears were the weapons of choice. As the katana’s popularity grew among samurai, the katana began to take on the role of a symbol of status—a swordsman’s name would be inscribed into the blade, in a process known as meikiri. By the relatively peaceful Edo Period, katana had become widely prized for their sharp blades and their beauty, becoming gifts, exports, and even Shinto symbols. Nobuyasu-san and his family workshop have continued this long tradition of katana swordsmithing and meikiri for five generations. Located by Hakata Station, this historic iron factory predates the surrounding neighborhood and connects with Fukuoka’s rich tradition of iron manufacturing. Join Nobuyasu-san and his family for a tour of the factory, see the history of the katana, and assist in forging your own traditional, inscribed blade.

What you’ll do

Join a 5th-generation katana craftsman in his central Fukuoka forge as he works passionately to preserve is family’s tradition. Tour the workshop and see the space where samurai swords come to life.

Who can attend

Children must be 7+

Availability

Everyday
Session 1 (09:00-12:00)
Session 2 (13:00 - 16:00)

Access

7 minutes taxi ride from Fukuoka Station or 4 minutes walk from Sanno 1 Chrome Bus Stop

Cancellation Policy

Please make your booking at least 3 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
* A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.

Discover more about the history of crafting katana, and other places to craft katana in Japan, here.