Overview

If you’re planning to travel around Nagoya and love crafts, cooking, or unique cultural experiences, this day trip is perfect.

Seki is known worldwide as the “City of Blades.” Sword making began here about 700 years ago, using the clear river water and high-quality natural materials that allowed craftsmen to create Japanese swords with exceptional sharpness.

As times changed, artisans adapted their skills to produce kitchen knives and scissors. Today, Seki’s knives are highly regarded by chefs and cooking enthusiasts worldwide.

Seki offers a memorable blend of tradition and adventure.

Here, visitors can:

• Watch modern swordsmiths at work
• Learn about the city’s history in museums
• Make your own premium knife engraved with your name

At a Glance

• Travel Time from Nagoya: ~ 90 minutes one-way by public transportation (JR to Mino-Ōta → local line/bus to Seki) / Driving time is about 60–90 minutes
• Time on Site: 5–6 hours
• Highlights:
  • Exploration: Learn, watch traditional forging, and shop for knives at 100% local, craft-made shops.
  • Adventure: A “connoisseur’s detour” between bigger destinations like Kyoto or Takayama.
  • Achievement: Take home a high-quality knife you can use for a lifetime—or even make yourself.

• Read about G Sakai’s Knife Museum
• Learn how to make your own kitchen knife
• Pocket knife making in a premium factory
• Join a Knife-Making Tour in Gifu (G Sakai)
• Overnight Samurai Experience at Nosyudo
• Blacksmith Samurai Workshop Experience
• Nosyudo Sword Workshop Blog
• Samurai Experience & Sword History Blog

Through these activities, Seki offers travellers a unique way to connect with Japanese craftsmanship and culture.

Must-Try Local Foods in Gifu / Seki

• Hida Beef (Hida-gyu): Japan’s finest wagyu, with beautiful marbling and melt-in-your-mouth flavour.
• Ayu (Sweet-Smelling River Fish): Grilled whole with salt; a specialty from the Nagara River, even delivered to the Japanese Imperial Household.
• Keichan (Chicken-Miso Stir-Fry): A hearty regional dish made from chicken, cabbage, onions, and a miso or soy marinade.
• Gohei Mochi: Skewered rice patties grilled with a sweet-savoury sauce (miso, sugar, soy).
• Hoba Miso: Wild herbs, mushrooms, or meat grilled with miso paste on a hoba leaf for a unique aroma.

Seasonal Notes

• Spring & Autumn: Best seasons for comfortable walks, sakura blossoms, or autumn leaves.
• Seki Cutlery Festival: Held in October (second weekend), this festival celebrates Seki’s cutlery tradition with markets, demonstrations, and local food stalls.

Plan your Seki Day Trip now and experience Japan’s living tradition of sword and knife making!