Craft a Katana Steel Knife with Master Sadanao Mikami

3 days

Moderate

Craft your own katana-steel knife from tamahagane and dive into Japanese craftsmanship with Master Sadanao Mikami on this 3-day immersive experience.

Overview

Immerse yourself in Japanese craftsmanship on an unforgettable journey guided by Master Sadanao Mikami, a Designated Master Swordsmith with over 50 years of expertise. Craft your own knife using tamahagane steel, explore samurai heritage, and engage in enriching cultural experiences over three thrilling days in Kitahiroshima Town.

What Makes This Experience Special

  • Hands-On Craftsmanship: Forge a paper knife from tamahagane steel under the expert guidance of a globally renowned master.
  • Immersive Journey: A 3-day exploration into the traditions of Japanese swordsmithing and cultural heritage.
  • Exclusive Insight: Deepen your appreciation for swordsmithing through a dedicated session showcasing Mikami’s personal collection and philosophy.

What You'll Experience

Day 1: Arrival and Forge Introduction

  • Start at Hiroshima Station: Meet your guide and travel to Kitahiroshima Town.
  • Traditional Swordsmithing Attire: Change into cultural attire to prepare for the forge experience.
  • Forge Highlights: Witness fold-forging techniques and start working with tamahagane steel, hearing stories from Master Mikami.
  • Dinner and Cultural Immersion: Dine on a delightful course meal at Hiroshima Kita Hotel before enjoying a sword dance/Iaido session.

Day 2: Shaping and Crafting the Knife

  • Knife Crafting: Shape, quench, and refine your knife with guidance from the master.
  • Dinner with the Master: Indulge in creative cuisine at Shiki no Ie Ayakura while exchanging experiences with Master Mikami.

Day 3: Final Touches and Cultural Exploration

  • Knife Completion: Add finishing touches to your handcrafted knife and store it in a custom display box.
  • Sengoku no Niwa History Museum Visit: Try on samurai armor, tour the site of a feudal lord’s mansion, and learn samurai history.
  • Sword Appreciation: A special session with Master Mikami’s personal sword collection.
What's included?

    Inclusions

    • 2 nights of accommodation at Hiroshima Kita Hotel, featuring private onsen baths.
    • Meals: Breakfast (2), Lunch (3), and Dinner (2), tailored to your preferences.
    • Cultural experiences: swordsmithing, museum tour, sword dance, armor fitting.
    • Private transportation and travel insurance.
    Exclusions

      Inclusions

      • 2 nights of accommodation at Hiroshima Kita Hotel, featuring private onsen baths.
      • Meals: Breakfast (2), Lunch (3), and Dinner (2), tailored to your preferences.
      • Cultural experiences: swordsmithing, museum tour, sword dance, armor fitting.
      • Private transportation and travel insurance.
      Please note

        Exclusions

        • Transportation to and from Hiroshima Station.
        • Personal purchases or souvenirs.
        What to bring
          • Reusable Water Bottle: Crafting can work up a thirst, even indoors.
          • Notebook and Pen: Perfect for taking notes on techniques and cultural tidbits during the experience.
          • Camera or Smartphone: To snap photos of their craftsmanship journey and the artistry around them.