Activity Information
Izumi Blade Factory, with a 200 year long history of making the famous Sakai Toji blades
Izumi Blade Factory, the makers of Sakai Toji blades popular among many celebrities as well, has been established in 1805 and boasts a history of over 210 years in business. It is a proud recipient of the "Sakai Waza Shu" award, further increasing the popularity of their knives that last a lifetime among those who love cooking.
Learn everything about the knives!
Deepen your knowledge of knives through the stories and explanations of master craftsmen, whose wits are as sharp as their blades. The love they hold for their craft will make you understand, why these blades are so highly sought after by master chefs from all over the world.
Observe and learn from the master craftsmen!
Visit the workshop and see with your own eyes how these blades beloved by countless celebrities including the chef of the imperial hotel are made. A cheap knife can be bought for a few bucks, but the quality and how they keep the edge is beyond comparison. Observe a true craftsman and see the the incredible amount of effort poured into each blade that makes a world of difference!
Three experience types to choose from!
After you observed the craftsmen at work you will have the chance to learn the basics directly from them. There are three plans to choose from, through which you can experience both the appeal of and the hardships involved in making excellent blades. Whether the "Japanese knife blade straightening and handle attaching experience", the "Keyholder name engraving experience" or the "Kitchen knife sharpening experience", the choice is yours.
1. Museum tour + Japanese knife blade straightening and handle attaching experience
After watching a detailed video on knife making and examining the necessary tools, you will try your hand at straightening of the blades and attaching a knife handle under the supervision of a master craftsman. On top of that, the craftsman will engrave the blade with your name, creating a unique blade just for you.
2. Museum tour + Keyholder name engraving experience
After watching a detailed video on knife making and examining the necessary tools, a master craftsman will instruct and supervise you in engraving your name into an aluminium keyholder.
3. Blade sharpening and keyholder engraving experience
After observing a master craftsman sharpening a blade on a rotary whetstone you will also be able to give it a try with a small knife, after which you will also be instructed on how to engrave your name into an aluminium keyholder.
A present included!
At the end of each experience you will be able to keep the key holders and blades that you made! We hope you will use your souvenirs on a daily basis and when you do that they remind you of your experience.