Discover the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship in the “City of Blades”
Located in south-central Gifu Prefecture, Seki City has been known for its world-class cutlery and knives since the Kamakura period (12th–14th centuries).
The city’s swordsmith tradition began when master craftsmen forged samurai swords using special tempering and polishing techniques.
During the Sengoku era, the legendary swordsmith Magoroku Kanemoto II perfected a method to create exceptionally sharp and durable blades — a legacy still alive today in Seki’s modern kitchen-knife industry.
Whether you are passionate about Japanese blades, traditional craftsmanship, or authentic cultural experiences, Seki offers a journey through history and skill.
🗡️ Guided Private Tour of Seki City
We offer private, guided tours of Seki City departing from Nagoya, Gifu, or directly from Hamonokaikanmae Station in Seki.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, flexible, and personalized experience.
✨ Tour Highlights
- Visit the Seki Sword Tradition Museum and learn how Japanese swords are forged
- Explore the Gifu Cutlery Hall, a marketplace with thousands of high-quality kitchen knives and scissors
- Tour an actual knife factory and watch artisans craft blades with precision
- Optional visit to historic temples or cultural landmarks in the Seki area
- Enjoy shopping and a blade-sharpening experience led by professionals
Please note: many cutlery factories are closed on weekends and holidays and may require advance reservations.
🚆 Sample Itinerary (Customizable)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 08:30 | Depart from Nagoya Station (for guests starting in Nagoya) |
| 10:14 | Arrive at Hamonokaikanmae Station (Seki) |
| 10:15 | Meet your English-speaking guide |
| 10:30 | Visit Seki Sword Tradition Museum |
| 12:00 | Lunch in Seki |
| 13:00 | Visit Gifu Cutlery Hall – shopping & sharpening experience |
| 14:00 | Visit a local cutlery factory |
| 15:50 | Tour ends at Hamonokaikanmae Station |
| 18:11 | Arrive back at Nagoya Station |
Private car arrangements and hotel pickups are also available upon request.
💴 Tour Price and Details
- Guide fee (per group): 25,000–45,000 JPY
- Included: English-speaking guide service
- Not included: Entrance fees (for guests and guide), meals, and transportation between meeting point and Seki
- Custom pick-up locations: Hotels in Nagoya or Gifu (transportation costs added)
This tour is private and on-demand, designed entirely around your schedule and interests.
👉 [Contact us here] to request availability and pricing.
🏛️ Main Attractions in Seki
🏯 Seki Sword Tradition Museum
Explore the history of Japanese swordmaking through exhibits, videos, and live demonstrations.
- Hours: 9:00–16:30 (Closed Tuesdays and the day after public holidays)
- Admission: Adults 200 JPY / Children 100 JPY
- Highlights: Swords from the Muromachi era to the present, swordsmith records, forging performances during the Hamono Matsuri (Cutlery Festival) in October and on selected Sundays throughout the year.
🔪 Gifu Cutlery Hall
Shop for over 2,000 products — from Japanese kitchen knives and scissors to nail clippers and decorative swords — at around 20% off retail prices.
- Hours: 9:00–17:00 (Closed year-end/New Year holidays)
🌍 Knife Museum (Gerber Sakai)
See a stunning collection of 1,500 knives from more than 30 countries, and browse the attached knife shop.
- Hours: 10:00–16:00 (Closed Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays)
- Admission: Free
🏭 Cutlery Factory Visits
Several local factories offer guided visits to see professional blade-making techniques. For example,
- Hasegawa Cutlery – precision scissors
- Fujitake – kitchen knives
- Marusyo Industry – multi-purpose cutlery
Each factory tour offers a different glimpse into Japan’s craftsmanship.
Advance reservations are essential — please consult us to arrange your visit.
🔪 For professional kitchen knife buyers
If you are a buyer who is thinking of buying or importing kitchen knives, please let us know in advance. We may be able to make an appointment with a knife factory that does not normally accept tourists. Our guides will assist you in communicating with the factory staff and with you.
🌸 Beyond Cutlery – History and Nature in Seki
Seki is also known as the birthplace of Ukai (cormorant fishing) on the Nagara River, a tradition dating back to the 8th century.
Visitors can explore historic temples, local craft shops, and scenic spots that reveal the town’s deep cultural roots.
(See Part 2: Historical and Cultural Seki for more.)
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Seki City located?
A: Seki is in Gifu Prefecture, central Japan, about 1.5 hours from Nagoya by bus or train.
Q: Can I visit a knife factory in Seki?
A: Yes, but advance reservations are required. Factories are usually closed on weekends and holidays.
Q: How do I get to Seki from Nagoya or Gifu?
A: Take a local bus from Nagoya Station or Gifu Station, Nagaragawa Railway or Meitetsu train to Hamonokaikanmae Station, or join our private guided car tour for convenience.
Q: Are private tours available year-round?
A: Yes. Private Seki tours operate on request, subject to factory schedules and museum holidays.
📩 Contact Us
For private tours of Seki City or cutlery factory arrangements, please contact us through our [online form].