Sanjo Blacksmith Dojo 三条鍛冶道場

In Sanjo City , located in the central part of Niigata Prefecture in the northern part of Japan, visitors can work with experienced blacksmiths to make their own knives. Organized by a group of friendly, passionate Japanese blacksmiths, Sanjo Blacksmith Dojo is where you can try a variety of blacksmith workshops.

Sanjo Blacksmith Dojo is accessible by train or by car.

By train from Tokyo, take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Tsubamesanjo Station and transfer to the Yahiko Line to Kita-Sanjo Station. The dojo is a 3-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, it is a 10-minute taxi ride from Tsubamesanjo Station.

By car, take the Sanjo-Tsubame exit from the Hokuriku Expressway then continue 10 minutes to the factory.

The Sanjo Kaji Dojo offers workshops including traditional Japanese nails and letter openers.

Most visitors who visit the Dojo have never made a knife before, but the blacksmiths are more than happy to assist you.

The workshops are provided only in Japanese for a fee, and only when there are enough instructors available. Do your research and make a reservation before you go.