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Okuizumo: Sword-Making & Cultural Immersion Tour with guide
Discover Japanese craftsmanship with "Blades & Legends: Okuizumo Sword-Making Adventure." This full-day tour from Sakaiminato Port offers hands-on sword-making, local cuisine, and cultural immersion.
Meeting Point
Sakaiminato Yume Minato Terminal
- Meet your guide at the terminal lobby of Sakaiminato Yume Minato Terminal. Look for the guide holding a name plate with "OKUIZUMO" on it. This clearly marked sign will help you easily recognize your guide as you begin your immersive adventure. The terminal is well-signposted, ensuring you can easily find the meeting spot. If you need assistance, terminal staff are available to help direct
Visit Haraguchi Rice Terraces
Haraguchi Rice Terrace in Okuizumo is a picturesque and historically significant site. Originally excavated for iron sand used in the traditional tatara iron-making process, these fields were transformed by ancestors into stunning rice paddies. The terraced fields, green in the growing season and golden at harvest, showcase the region's rich agricultural heritage.
This transformation highlights the ingenuity and resilience of the local community, turning industrial land into fertile farmland. Visiting Haraguchi Rice Terrace provides a unique insight into the historical connection between rice farming and iron production in Okuizumo, illustrating the harmonious blend of industry and agriculture in the region's history.
Tatara and sword musuem
The Tatara & sword Museum in Okuizumo offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's ancient iron-making and sword-crafting traditions. Discover the tatara method, a traditional process of smelting iron sand to create tamahagane steel, essential for crafting legendary Japanese swords.
The museum features detailed exhibits on the history, tools, and techniques of tatara iron-making, along with interactive displays. Witness live demonstrations of katana forging by skilled artisans, and admire a collection of masterfully crafted swords.
At this captivating museum, immerse yourself in Okuizumo's cultural heritage and explore the profound connection between iron-making and Japanese swordsmanship.
Witness a Swordsmithing Demonstration.
Experience the art of Japanese sword-making firsthand with a captivating swordsmithing demonstration. At the Tatara & Katana Museum in Okuizumo, skilled artisans showcase the intricate process of forging a katana. Watch as tamahagane steel is heated, hammered, and shaped into a masterpiece, revealing the meticulous craftsmanship and tradition behind each blade. This live demonstration offers a rare glimpse into the techniques passed down through generations, bringing the legend and artistry of Japanese swords to life.
Experience Soba Noodle Making and Onigiri Rice Ball making
Delight in a hands-on culinary experience at a local farmhouse in Okuizumo. Learn the traditional art of making Soba noodles and crafting Onigiri rice balls from local experts. Engage with the family, exchange culinary secrets, and savor the freshly prepared dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This interactive cooking session offers a unique taste of regional flavors and a deeper connection to Japanese culture and hospitality.
Tour the Knife-Making Workshop and Cutting Technique Observation
Embark on a guided tour of a traditional Japanese knife-making workshop in Okuizumo. Witness skilled artisans crafting high-quality knives using age-old techniques and specialized tools. After the tour, observe a cutting technique demonstration, where you'll see the precision and sharpness of these exquisite blades in action. This immersive experience offers insight into the craftsmanship behind Japanese knives and the artistry involved in their creation.
Ending Point
Return journey from Okuizumo to Sakaiminato.
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Inclusions & Exclusions
Round trip transportation from Sakaiminato to Okuizumo via Mazda CX-3
Gasoline fee
Toll fee
Admission to the Tatara & Katana Museum
Swordsmithing demonstration
Hands-on experience making Soba noodles and crafting Onigiri rice balls
Tour of a knife-making workshop
Personal purchases such as souvenirs or additional food and beverages
Tour Important Information
Tour Availability: Tours are available from April to November and must be booked at least 7 days in advance.
Tour Schedule: We operate tours on weekdays and weekends, but availability is limited. Book early to secure your preferred date.
Transportation Fee: If you need a pick-up outside the Sakaiminato area, an additional transportation fee will apply. My car is a Mazda CX-3, ensuring a comfortable ride.
Weather Conditions: Tours are subject to weather conditions. In case of inclement weather, we will notify you of any changes or cancellations as early as possible.
Dietary Restrictions: Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies at least 3 days before your tour.
Comfort and Safety: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and hands-on activities. Bring personal items such as sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
Insurance: We highly recommend obtaining comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies.
Important message from the supplier
Tour Availability: Tours are available from April to November and must be booked at least 7 days in advance.
Tour Schedule: We operate tours on weekdays and weekends, but availability is limited. Book early to secure your preferred date.
Transportation Fee: If you need a pick-up outside the Sakaiminato area, an additional transportation fee will apply.
Weather Conditions: Tours are subject to weather conditions. In case of inclement weather, we will notify you of any changes or cancellations as early as possible.
Dietary Restrictions: Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies at least 3 days before your tour.
Comfort and Safety: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and hands-on activities. Bring personal items such as sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
Insurance: We highly recommend obtaining comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
