Tameshigiri Experience in Gifu
We, the samurai performance team “KATANAYA ICHI,” recently got to try “Tameshigiri” (test cutting) with a genuine Japanese katana in Gifu Prefecture. Tameshigiri is an extremely rare and valuable activity where you cut real targets, like bamboo and rolled straw, with an authentic sword.
Holding a real katana and cutting a target with my own hands—this sense of the extraordinary was truly special. It was an unforgettable thrill that you absolutely cannot experience in everyday life.
I’ve been doing stage sword-fighting for 24 years, but this was my very first time cutting a target with a real sword!
Trying Tameshigiri: Cutting Bamboo and Makiwara
When I first swung down on the bamboo, the sword just bounced off with a loud “BOING!” (laughs). Everyone in the room burst out laughing—it was a bit embarrassing but funny to think about now. But thanks to expert guidance from Swordsmith Masaya, my form quickly improved, and soon I was able to slice cleanly through the bamboo.
Next, I challenged the rolled straw target (makiwara). After several attempts, I finally landed a perfect, clean cut, and everyone cheered—I was so happy!
I truly realized that to make a good cut, it’s not just about the quality of the sword; the correct posture, cutting angle, and body movement are all crucial. Samurai couldn’t cut through armor, so they aimed for the gaps. Swinging a heavy sword and striking an opponent in a split second—it really made me feel anew how intense the training for the samurai back then must have been.
This Tameshigiri experience also had a great impact on my own stage sword-fighting. I’m now much more deeply aware of which part of the blade to use for cutting and at what angle to block an attack.
Meet Master Swordsmith Masaya in Gifu
The experience is guided by Masaya, a master swordsmith who holds an official swordmaking license from the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Out of only about 200 licensed individuals in Japan, he is one of only about 50 who are currently active, making him a true modern samurai master.
He preserves this ancient tradition under strict national regulations that limit production to a maximum of 24 swords per year. He is a highly trusted craftsman globally, with international orders making up half of his business.
Location: The Holy Ground of Japanese Swordsmithing in Seki, Gifu
The experience takes place at a sword smithy in Kamo District, located about a 15-minute drive from Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, which is world-renowned as a city of blades.
Seki was blessed with iron sand, clear river water, and abundant charcoal—all essential elements for Japanese swordmaking. During the Sengoku period, it became the territory of Oda Nobunaga, and the demand for weapons skyrocketed. Since the Edo period, these advanced techniques have transitioned into crafting everyday items like kitchen knives and scissors, keeping the tradition alive to this day. It is truly the holy ground of blacksmithing.
Seki Cutlery Festival & Museum: Budget-Friendly Tameshigiri Alternatives
This experience offers group pricing, making it incredibly exciting to join with a larger party. Because it involves handling genuine Japanese swords, the cost is not cheap, but the value is undoubtedly worth it.
It’s a fantastic adventure, not just for Japanese people (like shooting a gun overseas!), but especially for foreign visitors. I wholeheartedly recommend this activity for an authentic, hands-on Japanese experience!
The Seki Cutlery Festival: Watch Forging for Free
For those who find it difficult to visit the workshop due to budget constraints, the Seki Cutlery Festival held every autumn is highly recommended.
You can watch traditional sword forging demonstrations and iaigiri (sword-drawing) performances for free, and purchase famous local cutlery at discount prices.
The Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum
The Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum also hosts live demonstrations. Be sure to check their schedule when planning your trip to Gifu.
Join Our Professional Samurai Training Program in Tokyo
While it is not a tameshigiri experience, we offer professional samurai training programs in Tokyo. If you are interested, please feel free to reach out to us for more details.
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