Seki is a city that truly stands out for its craftsmanship and rich traditions. Known as the Japanese Sword Town, it’s a place where ancient skills live on through modern experiences. For travelers seeking hands-on activities, history, and a taste of Japan’s samurai past, Seki offers some exceptional options. Our favorite is the Samurai Knife Making Experience at the Knife Museum, because it combines craftsmanship, history, and a unique souvenir you can take home. If you’re more interested in exploring historic castles or ninja legends, the other tours on this list deliver equally memorable adventures. For example, the Ninja and Tokaido Road tour offers an immersive look into ninja life and Edo-period travel, while the Inuyama Castle trip combines architectural wonder with cultural insights.
Quick Overview
This list highlights three of the best tours around Seki, each appealing to different interests. The Samurai Knife Making Experience stands out for its craftsmanship and interactive element (see details here). The Inuyama Castle and Samurai Swords tour offers a deep dive into Japan’s feudal history with visits to a National Treasure castle and a traditional teahouse (more info here). For those curious about ninja legends and historic routes, the Myths and Mystery of Ninja and the Tokaido Road tour provides a lively, hands-on experience (details here). Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. Seki: Samurai Knife Making Experience at the Knife Museum
At number one, this hands-on knife-making experience is a true highlight for anyone wanting to connect with Japan’s legendary sword craftsmanship. Limited to making a single Samurai-style kitchen knife, this tour is a rare opportunity to learn directly from a master craftsman in the heart of Japanese Sword Town (see the experience here). It’s a carefully curated activity that combines tradition with personal achievement—making your own knife, then testing its sharpness on fresh vegetables.
What makes this experience stand out is the chance to handle real Samurai tools and learn about their history at the Blacksmith Museum. The highlight is the moment you check your knife’s performance by slicing vegetables, which is surprisingly satisfying. Afterward, you’ll enjoy an authentic Japanese lunch, completing a comprehensive culture. The reviews are excellent, with a perfect 5/5 rating from 39 travelers who praise the craftsmanship, the friendly expert, and the memorable souvenir. While it is priced at $323 per person, the quality of the experience and the learning opportunity make it a worthwhile investment for those passionate about Japan’s martial arts and craft traditions.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a genuinely unique, hands-on activity that combines history, craftsmanship, and delicious food, this is the top pick. Be prepared for a full-day experience that leaves you with a special keepsake and a new appreciation for Japanese sword-making.
2. From Nagoya: Samurai Swords & Inuyama Castle
Second on our list is the Inuyama Castle and Samurai Swords tour. For around $163, this 7.5-hour trip takes you from Nagoya into Japan’s feudal past, with visits to one of only five castles designated as a National Treasure. The castle’s beautifully preserved architecture offers a glimpse into samurai life, and the tour includes a visit to a traditional teahouse where you’ll learn about the art of the tea ceremony while tasting matcha and Japanese sweets.
The tour also features a hands-on part where you can try sharpening a Japanese kitchen knife—a skill that both samurai and chefs have refined over centuries. The guide’s explanations paint a vivid picture of Japan’s castle defenses and sword craftsmanship, making the experience both educational and engaging. Based on the 6 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see a real National Treasure castle, plus the chance to hold and sharpen a sword adds a fun, interactive element.
Bottom Line: This tour offers solid value for those interested in Japan’s feudal history, architecture, and sword-making craft. It’s an excellent choice if you want a balanced mix of culture, history, and hands-on activities without a full-day commitment.
3. From Nagoya: Myths and Mystery of Ninja and the Tokaido Road
Third, but no less intriguing, is the Ninja and Tokaido Road tour, which combines history, legend, and adventure in an 8-hour trip costing $206. This tour dives into the secretive world of Koka ninja, exploring an authentic ninja house where you’ll learn about their stealth techniques and survival skills. The highlight for many is testing your own ninja skills by throwing shuriken (ninja stars), which makes this a fun, interactive experience.
The journey along the historic Tokaido Road takes you through Seki Juku, a preserved post town that was vital during the Edo period. The tour also visits the Aburahi Shrine, a remote mountain shrine featured in movies, offering a scenic break from the history. The reviews mention the engaging guide, the chance to learn ninja secrets, and the satisfying hands-on star-throwing. The itinerary includes scenic bus rides, walking tours, and cultural insights, appealing to travelers looking for an active, story-rich day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those curious about ninja legends, this tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore traditional Japanese stories and skills. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor and indoor activities.
$206 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and schedule. If craftsmanship and making your own traditional Samurai knife sound appealing, the Knife Making Experience offers a rare, memorable activity. Want to explore Japan’s feudal architecture and sword history? The Inuyama Castle and Samurai Swords tour provides a balanced mix of culture, history, and hands-on skills. For a lively adventure filled with ninja secrets and historic routes, the Ninja and Tokaido Road trip is ideal.
When planning, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interest in history or craftsmanship. All tours are well-reviewed, but booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Seki offers a range of authentic experiences that showcase Japan’s craftsmanship and history. The Knife Making Experience is perfect for creative types and history lovers, while the Inuyama Castle tour suits those interested in architecture and feudal Japan. The Ninja adventure appeals to families and adventure seekers.
No matter your choice, each tour provides a meaningful way to connect with Japan’s traditions. Booking ahead and choosing based on your interests will ensure a memorable trip. Seki’s rich heritage awaits—dive in and enjoy these unique, enriching tours.