Arao Trip Overview
【OUTLINE】
Sword making experience taught by a master swordsmith in Kumamoto
【HIGHLIGHTS】
・Learn how to make katana (Japanese swords) from Genroku Matsunaga, one of the only three Swordsmiths in Kumamoto, who will explain and show the complicated process behind crafting traditional Japanese swords
・Speak directly with Matsunaga and learn about all the secrets and skills that go into making katana
・If you’d like, you will also get the chance to step into the shoes of the ancient Japanese samurai and try out these beautiful swords for yourself!
Additional Info
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Starts: Arao, Japan
Trip Category: Classes & Workshops >> Craft Classes
Explore Arao Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Arao, Kumamoto, Japan
【OUTLINE】
Sword making experience taught by a master swordsmith in Kumamoto
【HIGHLIGHTS】
・Learn how to make katana (Japanese swords) from Genroku Matsunaga, one of the only three Swordsmiths in Kumamoto, who will explain and show the complicated process behind crafting traditional Japanese swords
・Speak directly with Matsunaga and learn about all the secrets and skills that go into making katana
・If you’d like, you will also get the chance to step into the shoes of the ancient Japanese samurai and try out these beautiful swords for yourself!
Itinerary
【SCHEDULE】
・ Swordmaking tour and learn how to make a katana! (30 minutes)
・ Trying out the sword or Sword name carving (30 minutes)
・ Tour of the katana and Japanese armor collection (30 minutes)
【DETAILS】
Learn up-close from master swordsmith Genroku Matsunaga, head of the Shodairyu Zanshido style of sword fighting, as he invites you into his tiny workshop and explains the importance of every single artisan detail, from the kind of charcoal used for forging to how the steel is folded over and over to create hundreds of layers of metal. Matsunaga has crafted over a thousand swords in his lifetime and is the recipient of the Culture Award from Kumamoto Prefecture.
In addition to his workshop, Matsunaga will also show you his collection of swords and paraphernalia. Participants can also try their hand at chiseling Japanese characters into a pendant to take home.
Those interested can also try tameshigiri (using a real sword to cut through a roll of tatami).
Please note that sparks may be scattered.
Stop At:
• Kumamoto Prefecture, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu
• Arao, Arao, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu