ABOUT
About this spot
Located in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, the sacred ground of craftsmanship, the Sanjo Kaji Dojo is a hands-on facility created to pass traditional blacksmithing techniques on to the next generation. As soon as you step inside, the powerful sound of hammering iron and the smell of sparks fill the air, letting you feel the world of the artisans. Beginners can easily enjoy blacksmithing here. In the especially popular "Japanese nail making," you hammer red-hot iron to create your very own nail, a moving experience. There are also plenty of programs that captivate both adults and children, such as a "knife sharpening class" useful in daily life and full-fledged "make your own kitchen knife" sessions. The facility also displays historic tools and products, so you can learn in depth why Sanjo developed as a town of hardware. Why not spend a special time touching Japan's traditional beauty and skills, whether making family memories, on a solo trip for enthusiasts, or on a school trip?
Last updated March 29, 2026