Seki, the City of Swords: Discover the Art of Japanese Knives

Seki City, nestled in Gifu Prefecture, stands as a symbol of Japanese craftsmanship and ingenuity, famously known as the “City of Swords”. For over 700 years, Seki has been a hub for sword-making, a tradition that continues to thrive and evolve today.

The legacy of Seki’s blade craftsmanship began in the Kamakura period (1185–1333), when master swordsmiths sought the ideal location for forging blades. Seki’s natural environment provided the perfect conditions: pristine waters from the Nagara River and Tsubo River, high-quality Yakiba-tsuchi (soil used for quenching), and abundant pine charcoal. These elements allowed artisans to create swords that were not only sharp and durable but also works of art.

Seki’s swords became highly prized by samurai for their ability to cut well without bending or breaking, cementing the city’s reputation as a center of excellence in Japanese sword-making. As the demand for swords waned over time, Seki’s artisans adapted remarkably, channeling their skills into crafting kitchen knives, scissors, nail clippers, and razors. These products are a testament to the city’s ability to blend traditional techniques with modern innovation.

Today, Seki-made knives are celebrated worldwide for their unparalleled sharpness and durability, and are truly works of art. These high-quality blades have become essential tools for professional chefs and culinary enthusiasts.

For travelers to Japan, a visit to Seki City is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of Japanese blade-making. Explore the techniques perfected by master swordsmiths and witness how these traditions have been transformed into the production of world-class knives.

Start your journey at Seki Terrace (せきてらす), and Seki Sword Tradition Museum (関鍛冶伝承館), the ideal gateway to the city’s blade-making heritage. From historical insights to modern innovations, Seki offers an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to understand and appreciate the traditional craft of Japanese sword-making.

Seki Terrace: Your Gateway to Seki’s Blade-Making Heritage

More than just a tourist information center, Seki Terrace is a vibrant cultural hub that offers visitors an immersive introduction to Seki City’s rich history and renowned blade-making craftsmanship. Conveniently located next to the Cutlery Hall (刃物会館), Seki Terrace combines education, shopping, and interactive experiences, making it the perfect starting point to explore this iconic city.

1. Shop at the Gifu Seki Cutlery Hall
The Cutlery Hall features a stunning collection of over 2,000 blade-related products, including chef knives, outdoor knives, scissors, and nail clippers. Each item reflects centuries of Japanese craftsmanship, combining functionality and beauty to create tools that are both practical and visually appealing.

Visitors can enjoy tax-free shopping, with helpful staff on hand to assist in selecting the perfect product to match your needs. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, the Seki-made knives available here are world-class and make for an unforgettable keepsake or gift.

2. Knife Sharpening and Knife-Related Experience
Learn the secrets of knife maintenance from master craftsmen at Cutlery Hall. The knife sharpening experience provides hands-on training in traditional techniques, ensuring your knives stay sharp and functional for years.

Even if you’re not participating, watching skilled artisans demonstrate the meticulous process of sharpening blades is a captivating experience. For those purchasing knives, these workshops offer invaluable tips to preserve your new tools’ quality and longevity.

3. Traveler-Friendly Services
Seki Terrace is designed to accommodate international visitors, with English-speaking staff available to provide travel assistance, local recommendations, and up-to-date event information. Inside Seki Terrace you’ll also find the Hamono Workshop, where you can participate in a hands-on experience using Seki’s renowned blades. These short workshops, lasting about 15 to 30 minutes, require no reservations, so feel free to drop by and give it a try!

4. Relaxation and E-Bike Rentals
After a day of exploring, unwind at the Seki Terrace cafe, which offers a selection of snacks and sweets made from locally sourced ingredients. The serene atmosphere is ideal for relaxing and planning the next part of your Seki adventure.

Want to explore further? Rent an electric bike for just ¥500 a day and discover nearby attractions, local businesses, or the scenic paths along the Nagara River. This convenient option makes it easy to delve deeper into Seki’s blade-making legacy and natural beauty at your own pace.

Must-Visit Spots Near Seki Terrace

Seki Terrace is surrounded by some of the city’s best attractions. Within a 15 to 20-minute walk, visitors can explore several must-see spots that showcase the best of Seki City.

Feather Museum
This one-of-a-kind museum delves into the history and technology of razors, offering interactive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. A standout feature is the creative displays about “cutting,” which provide a unique perspective on the artistry and functionality behind everyday tools. Whether you’re interested in engineering or design, the Feather Museum is a fascinating stop for anyone visiting Seki.

Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum
Immerse yourself in the world of Japanese sword-making at this museum, which celebrates the legacy of Seki’s master swordsmiths. Monthly demonstrations by modern artisans reveal ancient forging techniques that have been passed down for centuries. If your visit doesn’t coincide with a live demonstration, don’t worry—the museum offers extensive video presentations and exhibits showcasing the sword-making process, including tools, techniques, and intricate sword fittings. This is an essential destination for history buffs and fans of traditional Japanese crafts.

Seki Zenko-ji Temple
Constructed during the mid Edo period, this temple offers a peaceful retreat from the city. The grounds feature stunning gardens that change with the seasons, boasting cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Here, visitors can participate in zazen meditation or try sutra copying for a meaningful cultural experience.

Unagi (Eel) Restaurants
Seki is renowned for its fresh eel dishes, a culinary tradition that dates back centuries. Historically, eel provided the much-needed energy swordsmiths required for their demanding work. Today, local restaurants continue to serve this delicacy, offering a taste of Seki’s rich culinary heritage. Dine at one of the city’s renowned unagi restaurants to enjoy perfectly grilled eel served with traditional sauces. This flavorful dish is a highlight of any visit to Seki.

Access Information
Seki City’s convenient location makes it an excellent addition to any Gifu travel itinerary. Whether you’re visiting nearby attractions like Gujo Hachiman, Shirakawa-go, or Hida Takayama, Seki is easily accessible as a day trip or a stop along your journey. If you’re exploring the central area of Seki City, rental bicycles are a convenient option. You can rent them at Seki City Terminal or Seki Terrace.
For visiting places like Monet’s Pond, hot springs, or making a stop on your way between Nagoya and Takayama, renting a car is recommended.

By Train
― From Nagoya
・JR or Meitetsu Nagoya Station → Gifu Station (35-30 minutes) Take a Gifu Bus (50 minutes) → Seki City Terminal → Walk 15 minutes to Seki Terrace.
・JR Nagoya Station → Mino-Ota Station (70 minutes). Take the Nagaragawa Railway (20 minutes) → walk 1 minute to Seki Terrace.

By Highway Bus
― From Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center
・Take a highway bus (80 minutes) → Seki City Terminal → Walk 15 minutes to Seki Terrace.

Begin Your Journey at Seki Terrace
Seki City offers a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic Japanese experiences. Begin your journey at Seki Terrace, where you’ll find everything you need to explore the city’s rich heritage.

From the mesmerizing demonstrations at the Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum to the peaceful ambiance of Seki Zenko-ji Temple, every corner of Seki tells a story of tradition and innovation. Don’t forget to visit the Cutlery Hall to bring home a piece of Seki’s craftsmanship—a timeless reminder of your journey.

Stay connected with us on Instagram (@sekicityofswords) for travel inspiration and updates. We can’t wait to welcome you to Seki, the City of Swords, and share the pride of our centuries-old traditions with you!