Sakai - Knife Factory and Craft Walking Tour

Osaka Prefecture , Japan

Sakai - Knife Factory and Craft Walking Tour

Active

(44 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get the privilege to enter a real knife factory, with over 100 years of history, where the raw blades arrive directly from the Blacksmith. Visit the Sharpening Station and the main office. Observe the blades being turned into proper handmade cooking knives. Learn and practice the traditional Sharpening techniques with a professional and get the chance to order your own customizable knife you can watch being made in front of you.

Pour la demande de guide francophone:
Nous ne pouvons pas garantir la francophonie pour un tour partagé, car mélangeant plusieurs nationalités, la priorité deviendra l'anglais.
Pour garantir la disponibilité du guide, veuillez nous contacter à l'avance. Merci pour votre compréhension.

IMPORTANT - 3RD TUESDAY
Every 3rd Tuesday of the month, the museum has an inventory and might close without notice on that day. In that case, your guide will take you directly to The knife company and include the history of cutlery while walking, and at the office. Thank you.

Available options

Knife Maker Visit & Sharpening

Blacksmith Workshop Visit

Visit of a Blacksmith Workshop

What's included

Visit of the Knife Factory

Knife Sharpening lesson

All Fees and Taxes

One sweet per guest included

Bilingual Guide

Detailed itinerary

Learn about the 400 years old origin story of the Traditional Japanese cinnamon mochi and receive one as a present. Chance to buy more if you want to.

This is probably the reason why you will join our Walking Tour in Sakai. Visit a traditional Japanese Knife Factory with over 100 years of family history. Go inside the sharpening station and watch professional working on the blades that comes directly from the Blacksmith. Step inside the main office, where you can see those blades being cleaned, engraved, put together with a high-quality handle to become a real Japanese Cooking Knife.
On the second floor, the staff welcomes us to their office to introduce us to their product and to teach us how to sharpen a knife traditionally and properly with a stone. Our guests can practice and learn on-site. To finish, only if you want to (no obligation), you have the chance to order your own knife (or knives), to choose the type of blade, handle, material, color (if possible) and engraving. You can watch the staff making the knife in the office, in front of you, and follow the process step by step until it is finished. Amazing!

This local museum was specifically made to introduce everything that makes Sakai city special, such as handmade crafts, Bicycle, as the brand "Shimano" was first created in Sakai and local products: Sweets, Sake and Craft Beer, and more. The real treasure is located on the second floor. Join us and check it out!

What's not included

Extra Food

Shopping and souvenirs

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

34 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

While single travelers can book this tour directly, there is a "2 guests minimum" rule to give the tour a GO. in case of a single guest, the session might be cancelled and the guest will be notify as soon as possible, offering a rescheduling, or a full-refund.

Meeting point

The meeting point is located at the Nankai Sakai Station, East Exit, in front of the Gates. Please make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before departure time, so your guide has time to check the guest list and give you the basic info needed before the tour starts. Thank you.

Important notes

Please meet your guide at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before departure. Introduce yourself and number of guests booked, so the guide can check you in. Thank you.

About Osaka Prefecture

Osaka Prefecture, located in the Kansai region, is a vibrant urban center known for its rich culinary scene, historic landmarks, and modern entertainment districts. Often referred to as 'The Nation's Kitchen,' it offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and contemporary urban life.

Top Attractions

Osaka Castle

A symbol of Osaka, this iconic castle was originally built in the 16th century. The castle grounds offer beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours 600 JPY

Dotonbori

A bustling entertainment and dining district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant atmosphere. Dotonbori is a must-visit for food lovers and nightlife enthusiasts.

Entertainment/Cultural 2-4 hours Free to explore, food and shopping vary

Universal Studios Japan

A popular theme park featuring attractions based on popular movies and characters. Universal Studios Japan offers thrilling rides, shows, and themed areas.

Entertainment/Adventure Full day 8,400 JPY (1-day pass)

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. The aquarium is home to dolphins, whales, and a massive Pacific Ocean tank.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours 2,600 JPY

Shitennoji Temple

One of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples, founded in 593 AD. Shitennoji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features beautiful gardens, pagodas, and historic artifacts.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours 300 JPY

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

A popular street food made from batter filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onions. It is cooked in a special molded pan and topped with sauces and bonito flakes.

Snack Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with batter, cabbage, and various ingredients like pork, seafood, or cheese. It is cooked on a griddle and topped with sauces and bonito flakes.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables, typically served with a dipping sauce. Kushikatsu is a popular izakaya (Japanese pub) dish.

Snack/Appetizer Contains meat and seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request

Ramen

A popular noodle dish made with a savory broth, noodles, and various toppings like sliced pork, green onions, and eggs. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen broths.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains surrounding Osaka Biking along the Yodo River Kayaking or paddleboarding in Osaka Bay Onsen (hot spring) visits in nearby towns Tea ceremonies in traditional tea houses Picnicking in Osaka Castle Park or other green spaces Temple and shrine visits Traditional crafts and workshops

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, cherry blossoms in spring, and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the most popular times to visit with higher tourist volumes.

10-25°C (50-77°F) 50-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese, Korean
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Osaka is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings and personal safety.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services with proper identification
• Be cautious of strangers offering overly friendly or persistent services

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Osaka city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport) • 15 km (9 miles) from Osaka city center

By train

Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station

By bus

Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of multiple lines connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Namba Umeda Shin-Osaka Tennoji

Day trips

Kyoto

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is known for its numerous temples, shrines, and historic sites. The city offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life.

Nara

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is known for its historic temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. The city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature.

Kobe

30 km (19 miles) • Full day

Kobe, a port city on Japan's western coast, is known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and delicious beef. The city offers a mix of historic sites, modern attractions, and scenic views.

Festivals

Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15 (main festival), various dates throughout the year Osaka Asian Film Festival • March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Try local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu at street food stalls and markets
Use IC cards like Suica or ICOCA for convenient and cashless payments on public transportation
Visit popular attractions like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds
Explore lesser-known neighborhoods and attractions for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience