Sword Smith Visit

Can you believe that sword smiths still exist in modern day Japan? Yes, they do! Master Akihira is one of the most passionate swordsmiths out of about 80 active in Japan. He received his sword smith name Akihira from his master when he finished his many years of apprenticeship.

His workshop is not so far from Tokyo as he values frequent interaction with his clients in order to make swords that are just right for them. With an hour’s ride on the bullet train from Ueno station and 10 minutes’ drive by car, you arrive at his workshop.

Inside the workshop, you will be able see vividly his craftsmanship in action. Depending on when you visit Master Akihira, you will witness how chunk of iron turns into steel, or how the steel becomes the sharp sword that reflects the light beautifully. Regardless of which process you witness, you can find his gentle smile turning into a very serious expression as he enters the workshop.

 

  • 12:00 Pick up at the hotel in central Tokyo
  • 13:00 Depart at Tokyo station by bullet train
    • -If you have not finished your lunch, you can purchase lunch box at the station to enjoy in the train
  • 14:00 Arrive at Sword Smith Workshop
    • See the collection of his swords with the lecture from the master
    • Enjoy a cup of green tea served by the wife of the smith
    • Witness the works of the smith in action in the factory
    • Small BBQ in the garden using the special charcoals which make sword (if the weather is fine)
  • 17:20 Leave the workshop
  • 19:30 Return to the hotel

*Fully guided one-day tour
*Clothes might get dirty when you get too close to the smith as sparks and smokes comes out during the process.
*Antique sword shop visit is also available in the morning at additional cost. Please inquire.

Tour Type:Private Tour
Price:¥200,000/group
Up to 8 people

*Option: antique sword shop tour in the morning (2hours) is ¥2,5000/group.
Tour Fee Includes:Light meal or snacks/ sweets, a short taxi ride and an English speaking guide.
Tour Fee Not Included:*Transportation from/to Tokyo (¥8,800 for returning ticket by bullet train) is not included but can be covered by Japan Rail Pass.
*Bento box for lunch (cash needed) is within ¥1,000/pp.
Duration:Approx. 9 hours (including transportation)
Cancellation Policy:No refunds without exception for no-shows or cancellations within 120 hours of start of tour.
Weather:This tour is not cancelled for weather except in extreme circumstances (e.g., typhoons) in which case we will contact you and refund your payment in full.
Physical Activity:Light Walking
Dress:Casual
*Please note; soot and ash may put on your clothes.
*Sandals and high-heels are not appropriate for safety reason.
*We recommend bring socks as you put off your shoes when entering private space.
Wi-fi:Public wi-fi is not available along most of the route of this tour.
Photos/Protocols:Your guide will advise but photography is allowed for most parts of the tour.
Directions to Starting Point:Pick up at your hotel in central Tokyo
Note:*Guide contact will be provided after you register.
*Please note the dress code.
*We can arrange private car service from your hotel to the workshop.

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