VISIT SEKI

About Seki

Japanese Sword city Seki

Seki City has grown with the development of its blades. It's said that Motoshige, the pioneer of Seki blacksmithing, came to the area around 1229-1261. They say there were over 300 blacksmiths from the middle to the end of the Muromachi Period (1336-1573). "Doesn't bend. Doesn't break. Cuts well." was the praise earned from samurai who favored Seki katana through the Warring States Period (1467-1568). Once citizens were no longer allowed to carry katana, the town focused on making kitchen knives, scissors, and other kinds of blades. Due to their high quality, many Japanese people have come to favor Seki's products. Nowadays, tourists come from all over the world, keen to buy Seki's sharp blades.

3 reasons to visit seki

Nature

Monet's pond / Kabu-sugi

In Seki, there's the pond straight out of Monet's paintings, the stunning giant cedar trees, and a plethora of places to take in the gorgeous, natural surroundings.

Culture

Ukai / Sword

Seki is largely known for its bladesmithing since ancient times. Other aspects of Japanese culture can be seen here as well however, such as cormorant fishing, a practice that has continued since the Nara Period (710-794).

Gourmet

Sweetfish / Eel

A beautiful river called "Nagaragawa" flows through Seki. You can eat exquisite ayu river fish and freshwater eel, abundantly caught here.

How to get to Seki

Seki City is situated in the southern part of Gifu Prefecture. Since you don't have to change lines much, we recommend heading to Seki from Nagoya Station by bus. But a scenic trip taking in the views of the Nagara River by rail is also a pleasant journey. Driving yourself is also quite convenient for sightseeing in Seki City. Any way you travel, Seki is in central Honshu, and you can really get the most out of your trip by continuing easily to Kyoto, Osaka, or Tokyo.