Since the middle of the Kamakura period (1185 1333), Osafune in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture has been
renowned as the beating heart of Japanese sword making. The region is famous for having produced so many
legendary blades. At the on site forge in Bizen Osafune Sword Village, you can observe the various stages of
sword making including sword forging, scabbard making, sword engraving, and sharpening. Once a month,
visitors can witness the hammering and stretching of a white hot tama hagane steel ingot after it has been
heated to 1,200 ℃℃. This rare chance to view the tama hagane tempering draws visitors from around the world
who come specifically to witness the process. In the paper knife workshop, the sword maker will carefully explain
the process and help you to complete the knife. Other workshops are also available, including the “Small Sword
Making Workshop” and “Japanese Sword Care Workshop”.

*A minimum booking of five is required for the paper knife workshop to go ahead. Bookings must be made at least two weeks
prior to the visit.