Why not create your own one-of-a-kind paper knife at “Shojiro Scissors and Blades Crafts,” where traditional craftsmanship lives on?

You’ll experience the blade-making techniques passed down since the company’s founding up close, and with the careful guidance of our artisans, even first-timers can participate with confidence.

★ You can take your paper knife home the same day

★ Transportation from Narita Airport via private hire

★ An interpreter will accompany you (English and Chinese available)

“About Shojiro Scissors and Blades Crafts”

Shojiro Scissors and Blades Crafts (Narita City, Chiba Prefecture) — A “Fire-Forging” Blacksmithing Experience Inheriting the Techniques of Japanese Sword Making

Located in Matsuzaki, Narita City, near Narita International Airport, Shojiro Scissors and Blades Crafts is a blacksmith workshop that carries on the traditional “Sohazukuri” technique, which originated from Japanese sword forging. Using an old-fashioned method that involves shaping iron heated to approximately 900 degrees Celsius by hammering it without molds, the workshop handcrafts each kitchen knife, pair of scissors, and pocket knife one by one.

Here, you can participate in a paper knife-making experience where you work alongside a craftsman to hammer and finish the iron. The thrill of striking red-hot steel, the sparks flying during the process, and watching the shape take form offer a unique experience, and you can take your finished piece home to use for years to come.

Furthermore, the blades produced by this workshop are renowned for their sharpness and durability, and have been designated as Traditional Crafts of Chiba Prefecture. Another attraction is the opportunity to witness skilled craftsmanship up close in this historic workshop.

■ Highlights of the Experience

・Get hands-on experience with authentic blade craftsmanship

・Under the guidance of a craftsman, go through the full process of hammering, polishing, and shaping the metal with your own hands

・Take your finished product home with you right away. Perfect as a travel souvenir or gift

・Experience the depth of traditional craftsmanship while soaking in the workshop’s atmosphere

■ Experience Flow (Example)

・Workshop Tour & Explanation by the Craftsman

・An easy-to-understand introduction to the history of cutlery making and the characteristics of the materials.

・Crafting Experience (Polishing & Finishing)

・Use files and polishing tools to finish your paper knife to your liking.

・Final Check & Completion

・The craftsman will perform a final inspection and hand you the finished product.

■ Duration

Approx. 150 minutes (estimate)

■Recommended point

・Transportation between Narita Airport and the workshop via private hire

・An interpreter will accompany you, so you can enjoy the experience with peace of mind

・An indoor experience that can be enjoyed even on rainy days

・Solo participants are welcome

・A valuable opportunity to casually learn about traditional Japanese crafts