For over 1,000 years, samurai swords or 'katana' have been celebrated for their sharpness, resilience, and elegant design. Forged by folding high-carbon steel multiple times, this process removes impurities and creates blades of exceptional strength and beauty. Master swordsmiths, known as Tōshō, dedicate their lives to this craft, undergoing years of rigorous training and preserving techniques passed down through generations. 

Visitors can witness this artistry at revered forges like Matsunaga’s in the town of Arao, to watch this renowned swordsmith craft one of his masterpieces firsthand.

This craft is so revered, it’s recognised by UNESCO for its cultural significance. Washi, a traditional Japanese paper, is used for everything from origami to repairing historical artworks and books. The paper is made from the fibres of the gampi tree, mitsumata shrub or paper mulberry bush and is painstakingly made by hand, using a method passed down through generations. Visitors to regions such as Gifu can witness this intricate process and even try their own hand at making a sheet of washi.

With over 1,000 years of history, sake brewing is one of Japan’s oldest traditions. Crafted from rice, water, and koji mould, it reflects Japan’s harmony with nature. Master brewers, or 'toji', oversee every step, from rice selection to fermentation. Visitors can explore breweries in regions like Niigata and Kyoto to witness the process and sample sakes ranging from crisp and dry to rich and umami-filled, each embodying the distinct terroir of its origin.

A more recent tradition, Japanese whisky has gained global acclaim, a testament to the country’s dedication to precision and artistry. Inspired by Scottish techniques, distilleries like Yamazaki and Nikka produce refined, complex whiskies that rival their Scottish counterparts.

Elevate your appreciation for Japanese spirits by visiting distilleries such as Suntory Yamazaki near Kyoto, Japan's oldest brewery to explore the craft, learn about its intricate processes, and sample rare and vintage expressions of this spirit.

A meticulous art that demands skill and patience, urushi is a substance derived from the sap delicately taken by hand from the lacquer tree. It is layered onto wooden or ceramic objects to create a rich and glossy finish. While enhancing the object's beauty, the process also makes them highly durable, once more reflecting the Japanese philosophy of marrying practicality with beauty. Workshops in regions such as Ishikawa and Gifu offer immersive experiences for those wishing to practice this ancient craft.

Kintsugi is the delicate art of repairing broken pottery, embracing the Japanese philosophy of 'mottanai' (the feeling of regret over something going to waste). Instead of discarding damaged ceramics, lacquer is mixed with powdered gold to fill the cracks and bind objects back together. The results are breathtaking. Rather than hiding imperfections, the practice celebrates them. Try your hand at kintsugi in cities such as Kyoto or Tokyo, where workshops guide you through repairing and transforming your own keepsake into a work of art.

The tradition of sashiko – which directly translates as “little stabs” – harks back to rural Japan, when inexpensive white cotton thread was used to mend and strengthen garments. It grew into an artistic form of decorative stitching and over time the distinctive white-on-dark pattern became something of a hallmark and is featured in fashion and interior design, with brands including Nike, Kenzo and Uniqlo incorporating it. In regions such as Yamagata, you can partake in workshops to create your own piece, blending practicality with artistry.

Choose from more than 30 hotels across Japan on ASMALLWORLD Collection, where you can get VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit and more at no extra cost. We'd particularly recommend the beachside retreat at IRAPH SUI, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Miyako, Okinawa, or Grand Hyatt Tokyo for an elegant city stay with first-class dining.