Echizen Crafts & Yokokan Garden
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Port
Tsuruga, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$550
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
One of the most important traditions in the village of Echizen is the manufacture of edge tools and weapons, from knives to scythes. In 1337, master swordsmith Chiyozuru Kuniyasu found that Fukui Province had the purest water in Japan -- perfect for crafting Samurai swords -- and Echizen Knives was born. After the Samurai era, they pivoted steel scythes, hoes and other agricultural tools, handing traditions down from generation to generation. Echizen's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship remains to this day.
Visit Takamura Knives, established in 1945 and operated by a third-generation blacksmith. Guided by local craftsmen, you'll discover the art of knife making. Visit the workshop and try your hand cutting vegetables with their kitchen knives whose extremely refined and long-lived edges are popular with chefs all around the world.
Continue to a local restaurant for lunch. The main plate here is Japanese black beef steak, and it's served with a Takamura knife, so you can see for yourself why these knives are so coveted.
Visit Urushi no Sato Kaikan Lacquerware to observe the manufacturing process. Believe it or not, lacquerware is now dishwasher-compatible.
Yokokan Garden surrounds the villa once owned by the Matsudaira family. This garden has been voted one of Sukiya Living Magazine's Top 10 Gardens of Japan for 14 years running. As you stroll about this expansive garden, take in the serene atmosphere created by the large pond and the sukiya-style (tea house-style) structure that appears to be floating in the pond.
Following this enlightening and tranquil day, return to the pier.
Please note:
Takamura Knives is a workplace not usually open to the public -- standing room is very limited; you may feel a little crowded. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency, as some vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. Traffic can be unpredictable; your patience is greatly appreciated if a delay extends the tour duration.