Tours/Kyoto/Traditional Japanese Knife Sharpening Class in Kyoto [EN OK!]
Viator · group up to 6 pax

Traditional Japanese Knife Sharpening Class in Kyoto [EN OK!]

5.0(17)Kyoto1 hour
VIATOR5.0(1)TRIPADVISOR5.0(16)

Description

Master the intricate art of traditional Japanese knife sharpening in this engaging hands-on class. Guided by seasoned instructors, delve into the history of knives, explore various steel types, and learn the theory behind sharpening techniques. With a focus on using whetstones of different grits, participants will sharpen their own blades under expert supervision. Conclude the session with the satisfaction of taking home your freshly sharpened knife, a memorable keepsake that reflects your newfound skills.

Tour Options

Standard Plan (No Knife Gift)
With Gift Knife
  • Includes gift Japanese knife

Highlights

We provide all the necessary tools for the experience, including a Japanese knife, whetstone, sharpening stand, work apron, and towel. You can join empty-handed and fully enjoy the session.

What's included

Included
We provide all the necessary tools for the experience, including a Japanese knife, whetstone, sharpening stand, work apron, and towel. You can join empty-handed and fully enjoy the session.

Traveller Ratings

5.0
17 reviews
5
17
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Important Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(17)

M
melanielV3069JW
March 30, 2026
Great experience, highly recommended

Yenz was a fantastic teacher, very patient, knowledgeable. Highly recommended

D
Daydream13311646327
March 25, 2026
I had the opportunity to visit with international students.

The staff were very kind to me. Since the international students were homestaying at their parents' homes, we had the opportunity to experience it together. He was very happy with his first experience. I think it's good if you're going to Kyoto with people from overseas.

Operator response

ご来店いただき、誠にありがとうございました。 また、温かいお言葉をいただき大変嬉しく思います。 留学生の方にもお楽しみいただけたとのこと、スタッフ一同とても励みになります。 また京都にお越しの際は、ぜひお立ち寄りくださいませ。

D
D211FFdominicl
March 22, 2026
Fun and Useful!

Great ambiance that was relaxing yet insightful. Even though I am not interested a high maintenance knife that needs to be oiled or sharpened often, it's good to have this experience.

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you so much for your review and for choosing our workshop! We are glad to hear that you found the ambiance both relaxing and insightful during your visit. Our aim is to provide a unique experience that enriches your understanding of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, even if you may not pursue high-maintenance knives. We offer a variety of authentic Japanese cultural experiences at FUJI JAPAN. We'd love to welcome you back for your next adventure!

S
smithet2026
March 20, 2026
The highlight of our Kyoto trip! A great experience for couples.

My partner and I were looking for a unique cultural experience in Kyoto away from the crowded temples, and this knife sharpening class was exactly what we needed. The atmosphere at FUJI JAPAN was so peaceful and welcoming (the incense smelled amazing!). Our instructor was incredibly patient and spoke English perfectly, making the technical parts easy to understand. It was surprisingly therapeutic to focus on the rhythm of the whetstone together. Even though we were complete beginners, we both managed to bring our blades back to life. It felt so rewarding to create something with our own hands! If you’re traveling as a couple and want a memorable, hands-on activity that feels truly authentic, don’t hesitate to book this. Thank you for such a wonderful afternoon

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you so much for your review and for choosing our workshop! We're delighted to hear that you and your partner enjoyed your knife sharpening experience with us. It's wonderful to know that our peaceful atmosphere and the guidance of our instructor contributed to such a rewarding and authentic cultural adventure. We offer a variety of authentic Japanese cultural experiences at FUJI JAPAN. We'd love to welcome you back for your next adventure!

3
37zackw
March 20, 2026
A must-do experience in Kyoto

This class was fantastic! The instructors were very patient and explained the techniques clearly in English. It was so satisfying to see my knife become sharp again. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Kyoto!

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you so much for your review and for choosing our workshop! We're delighted to hear that you found the class fantastic and that our instructors were able to provide clear guidance in English. Witnessing your knife transform through the sharpening process is indeed a rewarding experience. Your recommendation means a lot to us and will surely inspire future visitors to explore our unique offerings. We offer a variety of authentic Japanese cultural experiences at FUJI JAPAN. We'd love to welcome you back for your next adventure!

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_J3095XK
March 20, 2026
Knife Sharpening with a View of Maple Trees

Honestly, when I first heard "knife sharpening," I wasn't sure what to expect. But once I actually tried it — wow. The feeling of sliding the blade across the whetstone, watching the edge slowly come back to life — I couldn't help but let out an audible "whoa." The instructor was amazing at teaching, and even someone as clumsy as me managed to sharpen a knife properly by the end. Visiting temples and shrines in Kyoto is wonderful, but there's something about creating something with your own hands that stays with you in a completely different way. Thank you, FUJI JAPAN!

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you so much for your review and for choosing our workshop! It’s wonderful to hear that your experience with knife sharpening exceeded your expectations, and we're glad that our instructor made the process accessible and enjoyable for you. The feeling of revitalizing a blade is indeed a memorable experience, and we believe it complements the beauty of Kyoto's temples and shrines in its own unique way. We offer a variety of authentic Japanese cultural experiences at FUJI JAPAN. We'd love to welcome you back for your next adventure!

P
pedropaulor993
March 19, 2026
A good new experience

I think that the experience was really fun and interesting. The staff was able to communicate really well in English. I would absolutely recommend it if you have a free time in your schedule.

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you so much for your review and for choosing our workshop! We're delighted to hear that you found the experience fun and interesting, and it's great to know that our staff's communication made a positive impact on your visit. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope future guests feel inspired to join us for a unique cultural experience. We offer a variety of authentic Japanese cultural experiences at FUJI JAPAN. We'd love to welcome you back for your next adventure!

M
miadA9661HC
March 19, 2026
An authentic experience of Japanese culture

I visited here because I love Japanese culture and wanted a more special experience while sightseeing with my family. Clement was very kind and explained everything carefully, which made us feel very comfortable. He didn’t just show us how to sharpen knives—he also shared knowledge about the materials and where the blades are produced, which was really interesting. I highly recommend visiting if you love Japanese knives, or if you’re interested but still unsure about buying one. The space was also very relaxing, with a pleasant incense fragrance in the air. My whole family was very satisfied, and we will definitely come back again. Thank you, Clement!

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you so much for your review and for choosing our workshop! It’s wonderful to hear that you and your family enjoyed your time with us and that Clement made your experience special with his thoughtful explanations. Our workshop aims to provide an authentic glimpse into Japanese craftsmanship, and we're glad you found it enriching. We offer a variety of authentic Japanese cultural experiences at FUJI JAPAN. We'd love to welcome you back for your next adventure!

W
Wander05656591923
March 19, 2026
Sharpening a knife correctly will change the taste of your food!

I had no experience sharpening knives before, so I never thought sharpening knives correctly would change the sharpness so much. I immediately tried it at home, but I feel the food tastes better than before! Thank you very much.

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

レビューをありがとうございます。また、私たちのワークショップを選んでいただき感謝しています!包丁研ぎ体験で料理に良い影響があったと聞いて嬉しく思います。このようなフィードバックは、私たちの伝統技術の魅力とその持続的な重要性を再確認させてくれます。FUJI JAPANでは、さまざまな本格的な日本文化体験を提供しています。次の冒険のためにぜひ再びお越しいただきたいです!

9
979yi
March 19, 2026
Knife Sharpening Experience

It was a knife sharpening experience that you don’t usually get the chance to learn about. From the basics to more advanced techniques, I was taught many things, and it was a truly enjoyable time experiencing the satisfaction of bringing a knife back to sharpness.

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thank you so much for your review and for choosing our workshop! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the knife sharpening experience and found it rewarding to learn both basic and advanced techniques. Our goal is to share the rich tradition of Japanese craftsmanship, and it's wonderful to know that you found satisfaction in restoring a knife to its sharpness. We offer a variety of authentic Japanese cultural experiences at FUJI JAPAN. We'd love to welcome you back for your next adventure!

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