The instructor (Memet) was great. I learned basic Japanese knife sharpening techniques. But: the meeting point was incorrect and sent me to the wrong Musashi store.
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- 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.
Excludes
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Visit FUJI JAPAN Sanjo on the 3rd floor of MUSASHI JAPAN’s Kyoto flagship. Start your day with knife sharpening, enjoy sake on the 2nd floor, and explore master-crafted knives on the 1st. A hidden sanctuary of Japanese tradition, craftsmanship, and culture in Kyoto.
Return
- Visit FUJI JAPAN Sanjo on the 3rd floor of MUSASHI JAPAN’s Kyoto flagship. Start your day with knife sharpening, enjoy sake on the 2nd floor, and explore master-crafted knives on the 1st. A hidden sanctuary of Japanese tradition, craftsmanship, and culture in Kyoto.
Itinerary
Learn the art of traditional Japanese knife sharpening using whetstones of various grits, guided by experienced instructors. This hands-on class is perfect for cooking enthusiasts, craftspeople, or anyone who respects the tools of their kitchen. You'll study knife history, steel types, sharpening theory, and then actually sharpen your own blade. At the end of the session, you can take home the knife you've sharpened yourself-an unforgettable souvenir.
Language Offered
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
Reviews
Yenz was a fantastic teacher, very patient, knowledgeable. Highly recommended
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.
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
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!
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!
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.
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!
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.
This was easily one of the best things we did in Kyoto. At FUJI JAPAN, we got to learn the art of Japanese knife sharpening using traditional whetstones — something you won’t find in any guidebook. The instructor was warm, patient, and clearly passionate about the craft. Even as complete beginners, we felt comfortable and guided every step of the way. Feeling the blade come to life under your own hands is genuinely thrilling. If you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience beyond the typical Kyoto sightseeing, this is a must. English-friendly and perfect for anyone curious about Japanese craftsmanship. Highly recommended!
Quite engaging, gorgeous ambience and easy to understand. You can also keep your sharpener knife with you!
It was such and amazing experience! I learned so much and I enjoyed the experience Totally reccomend if you enjoy culture and cooking!
Great knife sharpening lesson. The instructor explained the techniques clearly and provided very helpful hands-on guidance. I learned a lot about sharpening angles, pressure, and stone techniques, and the knife became noticeably sharper by the end of the session. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn proper knife maintenance.
We recently stayed in Kyoto for a few days before travelling to Niseko for a skiing holiday. While there we took the opportunity to do the Musashi knife sharpening workshop with my son and several friends. It was a great afternoon and taught us some skills that we will be able to use for years to come. The staff were friendly and a lot of fun and very good at teaching the content. We booked the package that included the gift knife which we look forward to using in future. I would highly recommend this.
The leader of the experience was phenomenal. Clement (sorry if I misspelled it) was fantastic and was able to chat with us as we learned. It was a very informative session and I am really happy with the santokiu knives we are bringing home.
I attended this course during my solo trip around Japan. At home, I cook actively and even have my own vegetable garden. I had heard that Japanese knives are excellent for cooking, so I visited the Musashi Japan store and bought a Nakiri knife. However, I didn’t know how to properly care for or sharpen Japanese knives. Then I noticed that on the third floor, they also offer a knife sharpening class. It’s a very atmospheric place with friendly instructors! I left with new knowledge — and even received an extra gift in the form of another knife!
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.
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.
Monday through Friday 9 am to 7 pm EST
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