Artisans Visit

Traditional Japanese Knife Making with Master Blacksmith Yasuhiro Okawara

  • 2025-11-06
  • 1-10-8 Kanamachi, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
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Traditional Japanese Knife Making with Master Blacksmith Yasuhiro Okawara

Step into a hidden Tokyo forge where blades are shaped entirely by hand.

Join an exclusive visit to the private workshop of master blacksmith Yasuhiro Okawara in Katsushika, Tokyo. Witness the authentic forging, polishing, and sharpening of Japanese blades—and, under careful supervision, try a few strikes on heated steel yourself. A refined, fully hosted English-language experience curated by Tokyo Heritage Partners (THP).

Experience Overview

Step inside the private workshop of Yasuhiro Okawara, one of the few remaining blacksmiths in Japan who forges blades entirely by hand. Refusing automated tools, he preserves time-honored techniques passed down through generations. In this carefully hosted 75-minute program, you will learn the culture of Japanese blades, observe authentic forging, polishing, and sharpening—and, if you wish, try a few supervised strikes on heated steel.

What You’ll Experience

  • A refined, English-facilitated visit to a working blacksmith’s forge
  • Close observation of forging → polishing → sharpening
  • Short, supervised hammering as the master’s assistant (optional)
  • Ample time for questions and conversation with live interpretation
  • Option to purchase or custom-order a knife (worldwide shipping available)

Yasuhiro Okawara

Master Blacksmith

Yasuhiro Okawara is a master blacksmith based in Katsushika, Tokyo.
He is one of the very few remaining artisans in Japan who forges knives entirely by hand, without using any machines such as power hammers or presses. Each of his blades is born from the harmony of fire, steel, and intuition — a reflection of decades of dedication and skill.

Meeting Point

Meet outside the only ticket gate at JR Kanamachi Station by 10:15 AM. Your guide will walk with the group to the workshop. The program starts at 10:30 AM.

Note: Do not confuse JR Kanamachi Station (Joban Line) with nearby Keisei Kanamachi Station.

If delayed, you may proceed directly to 1-10-8 Kanamachi, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-0042 (東京都葛飾区金町1-10-8).

How to Get to Kanamachi Station

Kanamachi Station is located in Katsushika Ward, eastern Tokyo, and is served by the JR Joban Line Local Service, which connects directly with the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line — so you can travel there easily without changing trains from many central Tokyo stations.

Cancellation Policy

Payment is taken at booking (credit card). Cancellations >72 hours before start: full refund. Within 72 hours: 50% refund. Within 24 hours or no-show: no refund.

Tags

japanese_knives

frequently asked questions

Q1. Is this experience safe? Can I try hammering the steel?

Yes. The hands-on part takes place during the forging stage, the first step in making a Japanese knife.You will take part as the master’s assistant, striking heated steel with a hammer under his close supervision.At this stage, there are no flying sparks, and the hammer size and weight are adjusted to each participant’s ability. With clear guidance and support from Master Okawara, the activity is completely safe and suitable even for beginners.

Q2. Is English support available?

Yes. The entire program is hosted and facilitated by Tokyo Heritage Partners (THP) in English, ensuring that every part of the experience—from introduction to forging demonstration and Q&A—is accessible and enjoyable for international guests. All explanations about Japanese knife-making and the forging process are conducted in English.When Master Okawara speaks or answers questions, a THP facilitator provides live interpretation, allowing you to freely ask questions and have a genuine conversation with the craftsman. This is a fully guided and facilitated experience in English, so you can join with complete confidence, even without any Japanese knowledge.

Q3. Where do we meet, and what should I do if I am late?

Please meet outside the only ticket gate at JR Kanamachi Station by 10:15 AM. Your guide will greet you there and accompany the group on a short walk to the blacksmith’s workshop.The program begins promptly at 10:30 AM. Please note that there is also a Keisei Kanamachi Station nearby — make sure to come to JR Kanamachi Station (Joban Line), not the Keisei Line. If you happen to be delayed, you may proceed directly to the workshop, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from the station.Taxis are also available in front of the station.Please show the driver the following address: Okawara Blacksmith Workshop 1-28-6 Kanamachi, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-0042 （大河原打刃物工房／東京都葛飾区金町1-28-6） For participants who have completed a reservation, we will send a local contact number by email in advance. If you expect to arrive late, please call that number to inform us.

Q4. Who can join? Are there any age or physical limitations?

The program is suitable for guests aged 12 and above.Children under 12 may observe the experience when accompanied by a guardian, and there is no charge for children under 6. The workshop is located on the ground floor with no stairs, and although the entrance passage is slightly narrow, there is sufficient space inside for wheelchair access. Seating is available for those who prefer to sit during parts of the session. The hammering sound is moderate, as all forging is done by hand rather than by machine. However, please note that the workshop is not air-conditioned. It can become hot in summer and cold in winter, particularly during the peak of midsummer. Guests who are sensitive to heat or have limited stamina may find the experience challenging in July and August. If you have any mobility, hearing, or temperature sensitivities, please inform us in advance so that we can make suitable arrangements for your comfort.

Q5. What should I wear or bring? Can I take photos?

You are welcome to come in any comfortable attire.Although the environment is safe and there are no dangerous machines, we recommend casual clothing that allows easy movement and can handle a small amount of dust or soot from the forge. While occasional sparks may appear during the demonstration, there is no risk to participants, and wearing a skirt is perfectly acceptable. We also ask that you wear closed-toe shoes for safety. Photography is freely permitted throughout the experience. We kindly ask that you respect the privacy of other participants when taking photos or videos.

Q6. Can I buy or order a knife? Do you ship overseas?

Yes. You may purchase a finished knife directly at the workshop, or place a custom order with Master Okawara. For custom-made knives, please allow at least one month for production before shipment.The exact delivery time may vary depending on the type of knife and the master’s schedule. Worldwide shipping is available for an additional fee.Please note that customs regulations vary by country.

Q7. How many people are in one group? Can I book privately?

To ensure a safe and personal experience, each session is limited to a maximum of eight participants. This allows every guest to observe the forging process closely and to interact directly with the craftsman and facilitator. Private sessions or exclusive group bookings can also be arranged upon request, subject to the master’s availability. Please contact us in advance if you would like to reserve the workshop exclusively for your group.

Q8. Are there any facilities at the workshop?

Please note that there is no restroom available at the workshop.We kindly ask that you use the facilities at JR Kanamachi Station before the program begins. A small seating area is available inside the workshop for those who may wish to rest during the session. We recommend bringing only minimal belongings, as storage space is limited.

  • Time : 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM (Asia/Tokyo)

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