the session
The knife workshop in order, from tea to gift box
Each stage of the roughly 90-minute session, with a note for each.
Reserve your knife workshop ↗The session, stage by stage
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Welcome | Haori jacket, name badge, tea or juice |
| Talk | A Japanese master explains knife and sword history |
| Choice | Pick the blade type and size |
| Sharpening | Work the blade on the stone with the crew beside you |
| Engraving | Sakura leaves, your name or a picture on the handle |
| Finish | Handle fitted with a hammer, knife boxed |
Arriving
Your voucher names the meeting point for the option you picked, and the provider can be contacted if you have trouble finding the place. Check that the option says Tokyo.
The jacket and the badge
A light haori protects your clothes from stray splashes, and a badge with your name in Japanese letters is made for you. It sets the tone before any steel is touched.
Tea and the talk
Tea or juice, with a range of soft drinks, comes first while a Japanese master explains the cultural side and history of Japanese knives and swords.
Choosing the blade
You choose the type of blade and its size. The standard multi-purpose knife is included, and bigger shapes cost extra.
At the stone and the engraving
Sharpening takes concentration, and the crew correct your movements and chat as you go. Then you engrave the handle and fit it with a traditional hammer.
The finish
The knife is packed in a gift box, with Japanese snacks and tea alongside and a custom key-holder as a present. Plan about one and a half hours in all.