The 2019 SEKI HAMONO MATSURI is scheduled to be held on OCTOBER 12 (SAT) & 13 (SUN). Definitely check it out: seki-hamono.jp/ is the website. Thanks for watching the video and please subscribe for more info on Japan. Really appreciate it!! -john
You have so many incorrect details in describing blade making in Japan its really embarrassing. You really should have your facts together because you are misinforming people, and as an award winning knifemaker its truly aggravating to have to listen to.
Hi. I'm trying to find the origins of a Japanese knife I have. Its old, handmade, and has Japanese on the blade. Any help or suggestions? I would really like to learn the history behind it. Thank you
The 2017 SEKI HAMONO MATSURI is scheduled to be held on OCTOBER 7 (SAT) & 8 (SUN). Definitely check it out and if you're hard core into knives, book hotels in advance. seki-hamono.jp/ is the website. Thanks for watching the video and please subscribe for more info on Japan. Really appreciate it!! -john
I'm going to the festival this year, can't wait for it oh and btw thanks for introducing this festival to me, i've always wanted to go to a cutlery festival in japan
I love this kind of videos, I hope to move in to Japaan 2 years from now, but first I'm going to live in Santiago de Chile nex Year. Greetings from Mexico!
khai yen ching nothing out of the ordinary but if you are buying something unusual l, different than a kitchen knife, ask the airline when you arrive about what you can check in on the way back. Each country has their own tariffs and customs so check when you depart at the airport - that's the best way to be 100% sure.
Watched two videos in this channel. Now I just hit "like" it as soon as it starts playing. This is the best series about Japan I have come across. Unlike most other things accessible to us English-speaking viewers, your focus is not on Tokyo, but Japan. I really, really, appreciate that!
The steel and workmanship of Seki cutlery is renown. And this video is a good example of that quality. Now I want to attend this cutlery show. It is remarkable.
Thank you so much for that. Really, I put a lot of extra effort into each episode for you and everyone. I really want you to enjoy it and to know you do, it means the world to me. THANK YOU!! -john
Thank you to everyone that helps with the subtitling! I am so appreciative of it as are the people in different countries watching: ruclips.net/user/timedtext_video?ref=share&v=1gl95A6nb6w I have done all the English subtitles so they match well. If you'd like to contribute to this episode, you and your channel will be credited in the video as a collaborator. THANK YOU!! -john
I don't understand how this channel doesn't have more subs but someone playing a video game and acting like a fool has millions. Anyway, excellent video as always. I also love Unagi!!
simple yet elegant is what describes this channel.i started to watch this channel as a "joke dare" by my friend but now we get into brawls when anyone bad-mouths this channel.keep up the good videos.Thank you!!!!!!!
This really helps me out. I'm hoping to visit Japan after I finish school and was already planning on it being an October trip. I'm also a blacksmith working on a BFA and my practical thesis is making Japanese style knives, so a festival like this is highly relevant and educational for me. So really appreciate this video so I have the information on it.
mrtodd3620 I agree! I real answer is that I didn't have much time, I was exhausted after shooting the shopping all day and I did my best not to touch the plate at all -- I barely did. Do my best with what little I have -- but I do have my Seki knife and will treat it like a queen! -John
I started about your channel because I wanted to know more about Japan and its culture. The thing now is that I really want to see Japan with my own eyes by your video guidances and in future maybe start a life there. Well done sir!
Alp Berkol thank you, Alp! I've been here for many years but now is the best time than ever! I can't believe how much Japan has changed to welcome foreign visitors. Also, thank you SO MUCH for watching the series! Really REALLY appreciate it. -John
The most distinctive feature of Japanese swords is that the blade itself has a craft value, of course, but more than that, it has an artistic value that is recognized. As with kitchen knives, the pattern of the blade itself has a beauty that keeps the viewer interested.
i really like how his videos are always well put together.. they are never borring to watch..I've been following him for months and i watched a lot of videos and never got bored for a moment .. thumbs up
Only in Japan is the best channel that I have subscribed yet.. the videos are mesmerising and informative. It makes me feel as if I'm right there. Every time I see your videos I feel like " I have to go Japan".
Hi John. I really hope you read this. I just want to say how much we all appreciate your videos especially with all the time, effort and enthusiasm you put into them. Your channel deserves to be waaaay bigger than what it is now but I'm as certain as death and taxes that it will grow to be a huge channel soon enough. Please keep up the good work :) Thanks from everyone who watches your vids !
@@spacecowboy07723Cutting boards are a thing for a reason. You don’t scrape the blade of a $200 knife on a ceramic plate. It very quickly dulls the blade.
I just bought a new chef’s knife. It was made in Seki City by a manufacturer named Miyabi. But it was commissioned by their German parent company, Zwilling J.A. Henckels. And it was made to the specifications of an American Master Bladesmith, Bob Kramer. It’s not a stainless steel Damascus but instead, a humble high carbon steel. But I love it. Thanks for your video. It was very entertaining. And the little history lesson of the city was insightful.
Wow, I was born near Gifu City & loved Katanas since I was about 4, the graceful curve of the blade & how it reflects light in B & W samurai movies in night time battles. A visit to Seki is definitely on my bucket list & get a quality Katana. Love your blogs showing different parts & culture of Japan, its so much different than California. Domo Ari Gato
Oh! I'm glad I could show you a little of Gifu prefecture this time. I absolutely love this area of Japan. I used to live in Nagoya 17-18 years ago but this was my first time here, to Seki and Mino. It's one thing to see the knives and swords in a shop in Tokyo, but to go to the source and see them make it, meet the craftsmen and talk about it in great detail -- it's enough to convince me to buy it and respect the effort to make it. I was hypnotized by that Damascus pattern in the knife from the start. Beautiful, the way it moves in the light. Thank you so much for watching! Doitashimashite. -john
Thanks Thomas! Gifu was pretty amazing. I've a lot more to cover over there including Takayama someday. I saw you just got back from Kanazawa! It's been a while since I was in that part of Japan. Enjoyed that episode! Thanks for watching this one :) -john
Going to Japan for a month in 2020. Your videos are informative, entertaining and extrtemely well done. I'm learning alot. By the way...Congratulations! Your bride is beautiful and you're a very lucky man.
Aww man, i'm so jealous of all of your videos. I really appreciate the way you shows these (almost intimate in some way) fragments of Japanese culture.
Sonny S I agree. Japan is an absolutely wonderful, beautiful, and interesting country, but it is hard just to choose one destination to travel to. If I could, I'd visit every city in every region. But where would John prefer?? :)
Thanks for the questions. It's hard because each person is different, liking different things! Some like onsen, some like museums, some like trekking or hiking, some just want to see the history or just eat! Japan is also a place with 4 seasons so it also depends WHEN you come. What I can say is GET OUT OF THE CITIES. It may be harder to communicate but it is so worth it! I have made a lot of videos the last year on places outside Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto. Try visiting Kanazawa, Toyama, Saga, Kagoshima, Iwate, Gifu, Mie, Akita, Wakayama, all of Shikoku Island! Not only will you feel the peace of Japan since there will be so few tourists with selfie sticks trying to get the same photo, you'll discover more about yourself. I have over the last 3-4 years making this series. Also, try participating in things, tea ceremony, flower arranging, festivals, wear a kimono or yukata once, try teppanyaki yourself on the hot table etc. As for rankings, they exist but you have to ask yourself what you want and then try it to make your own ranking. For me, I loved Hiroshima and Miyajima (but these days it is so crowded with tourists that it's not as peaceful as it used to be). I really enjoyed Gifu and the old towns on the river when making this episode. Kagoshima is one of my favorite cities because of the friendly people, drinking and eating and the onsen! I also loved the Sanin Area, Yonago / Matsue / Mount Daisen / Izumo / Tottori Sand Dunes. That's real Japan out there, taking the overnight train SUNRISE IZUMO from Tokyo. Let me know what you come up with :) I can tell you more that way. -john
I have met Kiku Matsuda at a blade show in Portland Oregon. I started by purchasing knives that he made in collaboration with SOG knives and purchased my first Kiku direct blade, “condor” in 2019. His facility is in Seki.
The main reason I love seeing the 360 degrees video from this channel is so I can finally witness the expression on the people's faces when you switch from talking to them in Japanese to talk in English to the camera. XD I bet they're so confused and awkward :P
Yeah the Santoku is more of a preparation knife then one you would eat with. So don't use glass cutting boards with them. Wood and Polyethylene is fine for prep work.
He just wanted to have his brand new knife cut something. And he explained on another comment that it had been a long day and he didn't have anything better to cut on, so he went ahead and cut carefully.
Hey I know it might not have been my place but I blocked George do from my comment cause he in not so many words called me fat and told me to lay off the steaks and eat salads. Which kinda hurt. And I want you to know if my commenting on your videos or if I am making you lose subs cause of my appearance, I will stay away from your videos cause I don't want to bring anyone down cause of who I am; Gomennasai 🙇
I know!! Some are even MORE if they have a history behind them. It really is quite a site to see a real one, made by hand from raw iron power to ... a work of art! -john
I was lucky enough way back in 1968-72 period to have met a few master sword and fitting collectors. I have several amazing swords and fittings from the 1400 to late 1500's. My artifacts cost me $2,000 to $16,000 for them is nothing. You couldn't even touch the good stuff that went up for sale at Sotheby's. The best stuff came from famous collectors Winston and Earnshaw collections. I was lucky to learn from them about Samurai swords and tsuba's. I wish I could get hold of some of those special cooking knives to try out.
Hello sir. I am the manufacturer and exporter of all kinds of knives,swords,axes etc... we have been working in this field from so many years . I will give my best prices to you on knives and will give you best quality Regards: zeeshan
I know where my dream vacation is now. Always wanted to visit Japan. And I have amassed quite the knife collection. Expensive and cheap. And the majority of my quality blades come from Seki city.
This is fun! The company i work for specializes in handmade japanese knives so it's super neat to see them featured. The knives shown is from Mcusta, and I see them on the daily! If you're looking for a good place to get Japanese knives, look up knifewear on google. This sounds like an ad, but honestly having a good sharp knife makes cooking so much more enjoyable. I bought a masakage santoku and a moritaka baby knife. We invited the Moritaka's to Canada this year and I had my knife engraved by a 7th generation knife maker. Insanely cool! Love your show! I hope to visit Japan one day soon and these kinds of shows just make me want to go so much more!
You produce and present a great show...in RUclips standards but not only that, also regular television. The Editing is great, and your commentary and attitude is very nice and refreshing! Love the vids please keep them coming :D
I think what he meant is not the general process but the way THEY make their Damascus steel using 67 layers. That really is quite a lot. Damascus Steel, after a lot of research, is what is now referred to as pattern welding, not the middle eastern mythological technique. You can use different steels to make the pattern, different number of layers. The way they make it is unique. There's no way to actually confirm this but the brand is very reputable and they certainly wouldn't want to jeopardize that. Damascus steel is produced in a lot of places including by people who make their own knives themselves all over the world, something I'd love to try someday. For me, this was a gateway to a whole new world! Hope a lot of other people learned something it. -john
The 67 layers is a bit strange. As shown in the demonstration you pattern weld by folding the steel and welding it into a solid block again, so the number of layers doubles after each folding & welding step. This basically means the number of layers needs to be a power of two (2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64 etc.) unless you start out with an uneven number of layers (so if you start out with 3 layers it become 6, 12, 24, 48, 96 etc. layers) or weld other pieces of steel to the folded core (so you weld a piece of hard carbon steel to the folded core because it keeps a sharper edge and a piece of soft iron to the back so the blade can bend without breaking). So my guess would be 6 folds giving 64 layers plus 3 pieces of other steel welded to it. These techniques are specifically meant for the production of sword blades and not for knives by the way. Because knives are relatively short you don't run much risk of breaking them in use and want a steel that's as hard as possible even if it becomes a bit brittle, while you want a more flexible steel for a longer sword so the blade isn't going to break. That's why sword smiths pattern welded softer and harder steel/iron together all over the world before the invention of tempered carbon steel (and Japanese sword smiths still do it in this traditional way).
JerehmiaBoaz 67 layers is absolutely common, as long as you don't fold, but create a 67 layer billet and work off of that. Weld together a bunch of different layers, than hammer it out, and you have a 67 layer blade. And it has of course no superior qualities to homogenous mono-steel. Also, you don't want to fold modern steel material even once. Modern steel has the right amount of carbon, if you fold it, you burn out the carbon. It made sense with crucible steel, since that has very high carbon and slug content, so they had to clear it out. But anyone using monosteel layers, and folding them, is an idiot.
For someone going to Japan for a nice all around knife I would recommend a wa-gyuto with aogami super core and stainless clad with a saya. And a yanagiba if more enthusiastic. So far I have Masakage and Shibata Kotetsu knives but I'm more interested in traditional knives now, and I'm finding Mizuno Tanrenjo knives a great deal and top quality, otherwise Masamoto as well but up to 2x pricy on some knives. I will try these top brands some day. Masamoto is Tokyo based I guess, not sure about Mizuno Tanrenjo.
It takes 2 months to make a Seki sword. Quality is important. This is RUclips where videos stay online for many many years so why does the date matter? Also, people start planning their trips to Japan several months or a year in advance so it doesn't make sense to show this right after the event has ended, does it? -john
ONLY in JAPAN It is not a news channel nor do I expected it to be. Just thought it is a bit wierd for you to put out something so late. I thought your video would be more focused towards Christmas as it is right around the corner
norio kun is it late? I think it's 10 months early. It depends how you look at it. No matter what, it wouldn't be in time for the festival so there's no reason to rush it. I had other episodes that needed to be added before this since I'm on a schedule. The show must go on :) I shot the video in Iwate in early October a week before this one. The next video on Sakurajima was shot in January 2016 because I shot it the same time I made the Kagoshima Volcanic Sand bath episode. I shoot a lot of things at different times and sometimes put them together to make a full episodes. That may takes months but that's the fun part of it. The Udon episode was shot in June, July and October! I think vloggers will do great seasonal episodes which I'll be watching too, but I sure don't want to watch only Christmas episodes, especially when Christmas is done. ONLY in JAPAN episodes, my hope, stay watchable for years. -John
ONLY in JAPAN Thanks for putting your 2 cents in man. I apologize for my mistake. I guess it is upto you to put it up whenever you want and however you want to do it. I just thought you made the episodes like a "vloger" so I thought it was wierd for you to put it out so "late"
No problem my friend! It's all good :) I put them up as fast as I can. It's fun to tell a good story and hear people's reactions to it. Keeps me making these episodes through the long nights of editing. Thanks for writing. I always appreciate the feedback from everyone! -john
@@dadanardi5541 Damascus isn't a technique. It's a type of steel ...which that knife isn't made of, at all. It's clearly just made with the old method, used all over the world, back in the day, of pattern-welding. That is, bending, twisting, and/or folding the metal into itself (the Japanese traditionally preferred to just fold, but these knives clearly have twists and bends). Historically, this was done to make poor steel more uniform and reduce impurities. This became obsolete, with improved steels (in Europe, this happened at around 1000 AD) It is now done *_purely_* for aesthetics, with no functional benefits, whatsoever.
@@ZarlanTheGreen i would call the art of making damascus steel itself is a technique. Secondly the technique is a lost art, what people refering as Damascus steel product in modern world is exactly the pattern-welding. This damascus in a loose definition for marketing purposes.
@@dadanardi5541 True, the _making_ of what is properly called Wootz (not actually from, or in any way related to, Damascus) can be describes as a technique, but that cannot be applied to your statement, nor t what the guy in the video said. (who quite clearly said that "Damascus" is a Japanese thing) _"This damascus in a loose definition for marketing purposes."_ It is very wrong ...and, for products that are made to be especially Japanese, rather ironic and counter-productive, IMO.
imstuner I was trying very hard not to touch it at all. It was an issue of time and what I had available to work with, last scene of the day at 10:30pm. Knife is resting in its case now. -John
I dont know if youre interested but the damascus steel on your knife is for aesthetics. The core of your knife (which is what shows near the edge) is what does the cutting. And yes it is still a very high quality knife. Id love to know if you read this comment and/or any feedback or questions.
Great vídeo, Amazing Channel. I'm from Brazil, living here in Japan, near Nagoya. After watching this vídeo, I'll go to Seki in the summer holiday for sure!
It's new because a lot of people who sent feedback said some parts are too long, some say to make it longer. It was a compromise -- so if it feels long, I'll limit it so it's not so annoying in the future. I can see how it can be annoying as well as a way to keep people watching. Thanks for the feedback! -john
Thanks for the reply. I want it too be longer. :) Alternatively, you can use timestamps of the sections below the video. Some youtubers do that. I could ignore that and people who aren't really interested can use those timestamps instead. (^0^)
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
The 2019 SEKI HAMONO MATSURI is scheduled to be held on OCTOBER 12 (SAT) & 13 (SUN). Definitely check it out: seki-hamono.jp/ is the website. Thanks for watching the video and please subscribe for more info on Japan. Really appreciate it!! -john
You have so many incorrect details in describing blade making in Japan its really embarrassing. You really should have your facts together because you are misinforming people, and as an award winning knifemaker its truly aggravating to have to listen to.
since then the steel has been allowed to be exported... example you can buy the raw steel from germany for 50 eurocents a gram...
Hi. I'm trying to find the origins of a Japanese knife I have. Its old, handmade, and has Japanese on the blade. Any help or suggestions? I would really like to learn the history behind it. Thank you
How can I order it?please tell me thanks
@@stephenversluis3994 go to d Philippines
The 2017 SEKI HAMONO MATSURI is scheduled to be held on OCTOBER 7 (SAT) & 8 (SUN). Definitely check it out and if you're hard core into knives, book hotels in advance. seki-hamono.jp/ is the website. Thanks for watching the video and please subscribe for more info on Japan. Really appreciate it!! -john
I'm going to the festival this year, can't wait for it
oh and btw thanks for introducing this festival to me, i've always wanted to go to a cutlery festival in japan
were waiting for it... thanks for informing us
any custom process exiting japan that we need to abide to bring those blades out of japan? Besides checking it in of course :)
I love this kind of videos, I hope to move in to Japaan 2 years from now, but first I'm going to live in Santiago de Chile nex Year.
Greetings from Mexico!
khai yen ching nothing out of the ordinary but if you are buying something unusual l, different than a kitchen knife, ask the airline when you arrive about what you can check in on the way back. Each country has their own tariffs and customs so check when you depart at the airport - that's the best way to be 100% sure.
Who would've known something so traditional cam be so entertaining and open a whole new world of wonder for the viewer's eyes.
When im old enough to travel to japan that’s gonna be one of my top priorities “go to seki and marvel at the katana’s and knife’s”
Watched two videos in this channel. Now I just hit "like" it as soon as it starts playing.
This is the best series about Japan I have come across. Unlike most other things accessible to us English-speaking viewers, your focus is not on Tokyo, but Japan. I really, really, appreciate that!
The steel and workmanship of Seki cutlery is renown. And this video is a good example of that quality.
Now I want to attend this cutlery show. It is remarkable.
Your videos are like TV SHOW IF NOT BETTER ! I think you are the best !
Thank you so much for that. Really, I put a lot of extra effort into each episode for you and everyone. I really want you to enjoy it and to know you do, it means the world to me. THANK YOU!! -john
日本の文化をいろいろ海外に発信してくれて有り難うございます❗これからも応援してます
How we can order it I need it....
Thank you to everyone that helps with the subtitling! I am so appreciative of it as are the people in different countries watching: ruclips.net/user/timedtext_video?ref=share&v=1gl95A6nb6w
I have done all the English subtitles so they match well. If you'd like to contribute to this episode, you and your channel will be credited in the video as a collaborator. THANK YOU!! -john
I already add Indonesian sub please review it. hope can make it for other video too
I saw that George! THANK YOU! -john
You have to visit Kayabuki Tavern! :)
It's done in french.
i'm not a professionnal translator, but i've done my best :)
BTW, I love this channel so much, keep up this good work !
Hope i can see japan thru my eyes soon :)
日本を良く魅せてくれてありがとう♪
thank you
I don't understand how this channel doesn't have more subs but someone playing a video game and acting like a fool has millions.
Anyway, excellent video as always. I also love Unagi!!
simple yet elegant is what describes this channel.i started to watch this channel as a "joke dare" by my friend but now we get into brawls when anyone bad-mouths this channel.keep up the good videos.Thank you!!!!!!!
This really helps me out. I'm hoping to visit Japan after I finish school and was already planning on it being an October trip. I'm also a blacksmith working on a BFA and my practical thesis is making Japanese style knives, so a festival like this is highly relevant and educational for me. So really appreciate this video so I have the information on it.
No
The knife you bought was worth every penny. The craftsmanship involved in making them is what you're paying for.
Do you use magic to shoot and edit your videos? Its so immersive i feel like i am standing right there. Love your videos! Keep up the good work!
There is no name Soooo true man
i wonder which camera is he using,awesome video non the less
Rodi in Japan I subscribe to your channel
it's totally a worth watching and the way of telling the stories are spell bounding .
I wouldn't ever use a nice knife against a hard plate.
mrtodd3620 I agree! I real answer is that I didn't have much time, I was exhausted after shooting the shopping all day and I did my best not to touch the plate at all -- I barely did.
Do my best with what little I have -- but I do have my Seki knife and will treat it like a queen! -John
ONLY in JAPAN You are forgiven.
mrtodd3620 totally agree
I came down to the comments to say that, thanks.
@@joshuaginoza9446 Me also.
I started about your channel because I wanted to know more about Japan and its culture. The thing now is that I really want to see Japan with my own eyes by your video guidances and in future maybe start a life there. Well done sir!
Alp Berkol thank you, Alp! I've been here for many years but now is the best time than ever! I can't believe how much Japan has changed to welcome foreign visitors. Also, thank you SO MUCH for watching the series! Really REALLY appreciate it. -John
hattori hanzo steel.
I knew if i looked long enough i would see a Hanzo steel reference. Saved me from having to say it.
Noseefood
I sold mine at a pawnshop for a couple hundred bucks
Gewglesux omg, same!!! 😄
The most distinctive feature of Japanese swords is that the blade itself has a craft value, of course, but more than that, it has an artistic value that is recognized.
As with kitchen knives, the pattern of the blade itself has a beauty that keeps the viewer interested.
One of the best channels in youtube
i really like how his videos are always well put together.. they are never borring to watch..I've been following him for months and i watched a lot of videos and never got bored for a moment .. thumbs up
I look forward to seeing these videos ^.^me and some of my friends enjoy them very much.
Only in Japan is the best channel that I have subscribed yet.. the videos are mesmerising and informative. It makes me feel as if I'm right there. Every time I see your videos I feel like " I have to go Japan".
John u deserve a million subscriber ..your videos are so good
The same idea that makes a glue laminated wood beam stronger than a beam from a log. The artistry of these creations is very special!
Hi John. I really hope you read this. I just want to say how much we all appreciate your videos especially with all the time, effort and enthusiasm you put into them. Your channel deserves to be waaaay bigger than what it is now but I'm as certain as death and taxes that it will grow to be a huge channel soon enough. Please keep up the good work :) Thanks from everyone who watches your vids !
from the Philippines, someday I will meet Japan. I love the culture and traditions and people too, very humble and obedience citizens.
My wife bought me one when she toured Japan. These are magnificent knives. Razor Sharp, they like blood
Shun knives are probably the sharpest most beautiful knives ive ever had the pleasure of using.
I enjoy this episode so much that I am sad it's over! i love the swords, they are all special and unique! thanks Jhon! xoxo from Mexico.
You know its gonna be a good day when ONLY in JAPAN uploads a video.
and this is how you turn a beautiful santoku chef knife into a $200 butter knife.
Why lol?
@@spacecowboy07723Cutting boards are a thing for a reason. You don’t scrape the blade of a $200 knife on a ceramic plate. It very quickly dulls the blade.
I just bought a new chef’s knife. It was made in Seki City by a manufacturer named Miyabi. But it was commissioned by their German parent company, Zwilling J.A. Henckels. And it was made to the specifications of an American Master Bladesmith, Bob Kramer. It’s not a stainless steel Damascus but instead, a humble high carbon steel. But I love it. Thanks for your video. It was very entertaining. And the little history lesson of the city was insightful.
you are the best please never stop your work
Great video. I find all your videos entertaining and insightful. Those knives and swords are fantastic.
Keep up the good work mate! Love your videos
Wow, I was born near Gifu City & loved Katanas since I was about 4, the graceful curve of the blade & how it reflects light in B & W samurai movies in night time battles.
A visit to Seki is definitely on my bucket list & get a quality Katana.
Love your blogs showing different parts & culture of Japan, its so much different than California.
Domo Ari Gato
Oh! I'm glad I could show you a little of Gifu prefecture this time. I absolutely love this area of Japan. I used to live in Nagoya 17-18 years ago but this was my first time here, to Seki and Mino. It's one thing to see the knives and swords in a shop in Tokyo, but to go to the source and see them make it, meet the craftsmen and talk about it in great detail -- it's enough to convince me to buy it and respect the effort to make it. I was hypnotized by that Damascus pattern in the knife from the start. Beautiful, the way it moves in the light. Thank you so much for watching! Doitashimashite. -john
I never saw japan like that but since im subscribed to you you really showed the beauties of the country
your videos are at a higher, whole new level, so professional and well done- Thanks!!
I LOVE this guy! I LOVE this channel! Another great video 😊
日本の刃物が紹介されるとか嬉しすぎ
Fantastic episode! love the quality of these episodes. I'd love to see you on tv one day with a full time show =D
kevinwoolford123 -/@&
I admire the way you film and edit these videos. Very good work.
Great video John. I've never really been to Gifu, I mean I've been traveling through, but that's it. Awesome video!!! ^^
Thanks Thomas! Gifu was pretty amazing. I've a lot more to cover over there including Takayama someday. I saw you just got back from Kanazawa! It's been a while since I was in that part of Japan. Enjoyed that episode! Thanks for watching this one :) -john
ONLY in JAPAN Ah yes, Takayama. I'm heading off to Tohoku for Christmas, can't wait to go back. (how do you like Tohoku?)
Take care John. ^^
I absolutely love these videos ^_^ One of my most favourite youtubers to watch
Going to Japan for a month in 2020. Your videos are informative, entertaining and extrtemely well done. I'm learning alot. By the way...Congratulations! Your bride is beautiful and you're a very lucky man.
I just saw your comment and immediately thought that your plan was busted. 2020 sucks.
@@bellcrosswolfstein1942 REALLY BUSTED. It was our 50th aniversary. We went nowhere!
Aww man, i'm so jealous of all of your videos. I really appreciate the way you shows these (almost intimate in some way) fragments of Japanese culture.
John, Can u give me your top 5 Japan travel destinations. I appreciate it! Sonny
Sonny S I agree. Japan is an absolutely wonderful, beautiful, and interesting country, but it is hard just to choose one destination to travel to. If I could, I'd visit every city in every region. But where would John prefer?? :)
Here the best top swords in Japan
5- Masamune
4- Ultima blade
3- Lightbringer
2- Ragnarok
1-Omega Weapon.
This is weird for me but hey ....I dream of being in such places and visualize myself having a good time.
Thanks for the questions. It's hard because each person is different, liking different things! Some like onsen, some like museums, some like trekking or hiking, some just want to see the history or just eat! Japan is also a place with 4 seasons so it also depends WHEN you come. What I can say is GET OUT OF THE CITIES. It may be harder to communicate but it is so worth it! I have made a lot of videos the last year on places outside Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto. Try visiting Kanazawa, Toyama, Saga, Kagoshima, Iwate, Gifu, Mie, Akita, Wakayama, all of Shikoku Island! Not only will you feel the peace of Japan since there will be so few tourists with selfie sticks trying to get the same photo, you'll discover more about yourself. I have over the last 3-4 years making this series.
Also, try participating in things, tea ceremony, flower arranging, festivals, wear a kimono or yukata once, try teppanyaki yourself on the hot table etc. As for rankings, they exist but you have to ask yourself what you want and then try it to make your own ranking. For me, I loved Hiroshima and Miyajima (but these days it is so crowded with tourists that it's not as peaceful as it used to be). I really enjoyed Gifu and the old towns on the river when making this episode. Kagoshima is one of my favorite cities because of the friendly people, drinking and eating and the onsen! I also loved the Sanin Area, Yonago / Matsue / Mount Daisen / Izumo / Tottori Sand Dunes. That's real Japan out there, taking the overnight train SUNRISE IZUMO from Tokyo.
Let me know what you come up with :) I can tell you more that way. -john
Thank you John. I like the different types of festivals. Your recommendations on what season to go to Japan?
I have met Kiku Matsuda at a blade show in Portland Oregon. I started by purchasing knives that he made in collaboration with SOG knives and purchased my first Kiku direct blade, “condor” in 2019. His facility is in Seki.
one of the best youtube channel from Japan good job!
Another great video. Good job and thanks John!
Japan is surreal ! Truly different experience. Good content as usual my friend.
I wish I could go to visit someday. But the problem is what to do if you can’t speak the language.
The main reason I love seeing the 360 degrees video from this channel is so I can finally witness the expression on the people's faces when you switch from talking to them in Japanese to talk in English to the camera. XD I bet they're so confused and awkward :P
Another topic thoroughly researched by John. Cheers
One of these days I am going to get one of these knives from Seki!! They are so beautiful!!!
Thanks for sharing!!!
Watching this in 2020 thinking, " there are so many people crowded together!"...
I feel the same watching movies even. Miss the normal days.
Worlds biggest pysop.
How do you not have at least a million subs yet??? Love your videos.
dont cut on glass if you love your knife...
boedhaspeaks I love my knife! I will treat her right and NEVER do it again. Thanks! -J
Maybe an episode on sharpening?
A chef's knife/santoku isn't the right knife for a plate anyways. A pocket knife or small fixed blade would be a better fit.
Yeah the Santoku is more of a preparation knife then one you would eat with. So don't use glass cutting boards with them. Wood and Polyethylene is fine for prep work.
He just wanted to have his brand new knife cut something. And he explained on another comment that it had been a long day and he didn't have anything better to cut on, so he went ahead and cut carefully.
This is one of my favorite episodes from Only in Japan~
omg I want that knife and steak.
I hope you are stay warm. have a great holiday season.
Tania hi
Tania thanks!! Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from Tokyo!! -John
Hey I know it might not have been my place but I blocked George do from my comment cause he in not so many words called me fat and told me to lay off the steaks and eat salads. Which kinda hurt. And I want you to know if my commenting on your videos or if I am making you lose subs cause of my appearance, I will stay away from your videos cause I don't want to bring anyone down cause of who I am; Gomennasai 🙇
Tania u r beautiful
I LOVE JAPAN & JAPANESE TRADITIONAL CULTURE.
Wow I knew there was a lot of work to make a samurai but I never knew 20k wow that's a total dedicated person for that!!!!
I know!! Some are even MORE if they have a history behind them. It really is quite a site to see a real one, made by hand from raw iron power to ... a work of art! -john
Totally agree!!! 👍
I was lucky enough way back in 1968-72 period to have met a few master sword and fitting collectors. I have several amazing swords and fittings from the 1400 to late 1500's. My artifacts cost me $2,000 to $16,000 for them is nothing. You couldn't even touch the good stuff that went up for sale at Sotheby's. The best stuff came from famous collectors Winston and Earnshaw collections. I was lucky to learn from them about Samurai swords and tsuba's. I wish I could get hold of some of those special cooking knives to try out.
Very interesting to watch the swordsmithing. You can see the master keep the rhythm with his taps, then do a double tap when he wanted them to stop.
i want to go in japan :(
anytime.
Hello sir.
I am the manufacturer and exporter of all kinds of knives,swords,axes etc... we have been working in this field from so many years . I will give my best prices to you on knives and will give you best quality
Regards: zeeshan
go fvck yourself
Awesome video...good to know about Japanese Samurai swords history...thanq John
I want a video talking about Japan's traditional music
I know where my dream vacation is now. Always wanted to visit Japan. And I have amassed quite the knife collection. Expensive and cheap. And the majority of my quality blades come from Seki city.
Man he really savoured that experience, superdelicious Meat with superhighclass Knife. x'D
This is fun! The company i work for specializes in handmade japanese knives so it's super neat to see them featured. The knives shown is from Mcusta, and I see them on the daily!
If you're looking for a good place to get Japanese knives, look up knifewear on google. This sounds like an ad, but honestly having a good sharp knife makes cooking so much more enjoyable. I bought a masakage santoku and a moritaka baby knife. We invited the Moritaka's to Canada this year and I had my knife engraved by a 7th generation knife maker. Insanely cool!
Love your show! I hope to visit Japan one day soon and these kinds of shows just make me want to go so much more!
200~ on a nice knife isn't that bad
My Miyabi Mizu was $230.
200 is cheap when you buy yoshijiro grade cutlery
Love those authentic Japanese flavour in your video so different from those simply travel vlog
$100 for display sword that quality is not bad 🤔
I agree. I think i paid about the same for mine.
Try to import a display sword to Japan they will destroy it. But buying a Japanese made display sword is allowed.
Great episode! That looked like a lot of fun^^! can't wait for the next episode too!
im imagining that the waiter was like: heres your knife and he's like: no need I brought my own
I am here in Japan now. I really noticed how the people takes pride on what they do. 👍
EKUSUUU KARIBBAAAAAAA
Mllngtn Louis oops wrong sword xD
You produce and present a great show...in RUclips standards but not only that, also regular television.
The Editing is great, and your commentary and attitude is very nice and refreshing!
Love the vids please keep them coming :D
4:03 - did that guy say that damascus steel is unique to Japan?...
I think what he meant is not the general process but the way THEY make their Damascus steel using 67 layers. That really is quite a lot. Damascus Steel, after a lot of research, is what is now referred to as pattern welding, not the middle eastern mythological technique. You can use different steels to make the pattern, different number of layers. The way they make it is unique. There's no way to actually confirm this but the brand is very reputable and they certainly wouldn't want to jeopardize that. Damascus steel is produced in a lot of places including by people who make their own knives themselves all over the world, something I'd love to try someday. For me, this was a gateway to a whole new world! Hope a lot of other people learned something it. -john
ONLY in JAPAN
No matter how you look at it. This statement is simply incorrect.
The 67 layers is a bit strange. As shown in the demonstration you pattern weld by folding the steel and welding it into a solid block again, so the number of layers doubles after each folding & welding step. This basically means the number of layers needs to be a power of two (2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64 etc.) unless you start out with an uneven number of layers (so if you start out with 3 layers it become 6, 12, 24, 48, 96 etc. layers) or weld other pieces of steel to the folded core (so you weld a piece of hard carbon steel to the folded core because it keeps a sharper edge and a piece of soft iron to the back so the blade can bend without breaking). So my guess would be 6 folds giving 64 layers plus 3 pieces of other steel welded to it.
These techniques are specifically meant for the production of sword blades and not for knives by the way. Because knives are relatively short you don't run much risk of breaking them in use and want a steel that's as hard as possible even if it becomes a bit brittle, while you want a more flexible steel for a longer sword so the blade isn't going to break. That's why sword smiths pattern welded softer and harder steel/iron together all over the world before the invention of tempered carbon steel (and Japanese sword smiths still do it in this traditional way).
JerehmiaBoaz 67 layers is absolutely common, as long as you don't fold, but create a 67 layer billet and work off of that. Weld together a bunch of different layers, than hammer it out, and you have a 67 layer blade. And it has of course no superior qualities to homogenous mono-steel.
Also, you don't want to fold modern steel material even once. Modern steel has the right amount of carbon, if you fold it, you burn out the carbon. It made sense with crucible steel, since that has very high carbon and slug content, so they had to clear it out. But anyone using monosteel layers, and folding them, is an idiot.
I was waiting for this episode. Once again you have done a terrific job.
Thanks for sharing this.
Glad you like it! -john
For someone going to Japan for a nice all around knife I would recommend a wa-gyuto with aogami super core and stainless clad with a saya. And a yanagiba if more enthusiastic. So far I have Masakage and Shibata Kotetsu knives but I'm more interested in traditional knives now, and I'm finding Mizuno Tanrenjo knives a great deal and top quality, otherwise Masamoto as well but up to 2x pricy on some knives. I will try these top brands some day. Masamoto is Tokyo based I guess, not sure about Mizuno Tanrenjo.
What a bullshit, you just throwing in some words....without any knowledge of it. Thats really easy to make up from your comment
i love how only in japan film their videos, it looks a lot like documentaries and something that you see in tv's. kudos john.loving your videos.
this video from October but its December already...
It takes 2 months to make a Seki sword. Quality is important.
This is RUclips where videos stay online for many many years so why does the date matter? Also, people start planning their trips to Japan several months or a year in advance so it doesn't make sense to show this right after the event has ended, does it? -john
ONLY in JAPAN It is not a news channel nor do I expected it to be. Just thought it is a bit wierd for you to put out something so late. I thought your video would be more focused towards Christmas as it is right around the corner
norio kun is it late? I think it's 10 months early. It depends how you look at it. No matter what, it wouldn't be in time for the festival so there's no reason to rush it. I had other episodes that needed to be added before this since I'm on a schedule. The show must go on :) I shot the video in Iwate in early October a week before this one. The next video on Sakurajima was shot in January 2016 because I shot it the same time I made the Kagoshima Volcanic Sand bath episode. I shoot a lot of things at different times and sometimes put them together to make a full episodes. That may takes months but that's the fun part of it. The Udon episode was shot in June, July and October! I think vloggers will do great seasonal episodes which I'll be watching too, but I sure don't want to watch only Christmas episodes, especially when Christmas is done. ONLY in JAPAN episodes, my hope, stay watchable for years. -John
ONLY in JAPAN Thanks for putting your 2 cents in man. I apologize for my mistake. I guess it is upto you to put it up whenever you want and however you want to do it. I just thought you made the episodes like a "vloger" so I thought it was wierd for you to put it out so "late"
No problem my friend! It's all good :) I put them up as fast as I can. It's fun to tell a good story and hear people's reactions to it. Keeps me making these episodes through the long nights of editing. Thanks for writing. I always appreciate the feedback from everyone! -john
Thanks for another great video John, awesome stuff which you simply dont find in tourist guides!
I don't know why but when I see this guy, I think of Doug Demero
justin m when i see him, i think of the original karate kid. lol
Geno C holy shit, yes!
Oddly, Autoplay brought me here after a Doug Demuro video.
As that blade slide through that beef i released a breath i didnt know I'd been holding.👌 beautiful and moving
_"I wanted my knife to sink it's teeth into something beautiful right away..."_
As someone who has familial connections to Sheffield, this places has certainly been added to my itinerary, when I head on over to Japan!
"Damascus steel.. unique to Japan." 'Yeah... Damascus, Japan... *rubs hands together*' LOL
...and it's not even actual damacus steel (wootz), but simply pattern-welding, which was used all throughout the world.
something lost in translation, he said damascus type (the technique) but with material from seki.
@@dadanardi5541 Damascus isn't a technique. It's a type of steel ...which that knife isn't made of, at all. It's clearly just made with the old method, used all over the world, back in the day, of pattern-welding. That is, bending, twisting, and/or folding the metal into itself (the Japanese traditionally preferred to just fold, but these knives clearly have twists and bends).
Historically, this was done to make poor steel more uniform and reduce impurities. This became obsolete, with improved steels (in Europe, this happened at around 1000 AD)
It is now done *_purely_* for aesthetics, with no functional benefits, whatsoever.
@@ZarlanTheGreen i would call the art of making damascus steel itself is a technique. Secondly the technique is a lost art, what people refering as Damascus steel product in modern world is exactly the pattern-welding. This damascus in a loose definition for marketing purposes.
@@dadanardi5541 True, the _making_ of what is properly called Wootz (not actually from, or in any way related to, Damascus) can be describes as a technique, but that cannot be applied to your statement, nor t what the guy in the video said. (who quite clearly said that "Damascus" is a Japanese thing)
_"This damascus in a loose definition for marketing purposes."_
It is very wrong ...and, for products that are made to be especially Japanese, rather ironic and counter-productive, IMO.
Wow this is an amazing episode. thanks.
I'm so glad you didn't grind the knife edge on the plate.
imstuner I was trying very hard not to touch it at all. It was an issue of time and what I had available to work with, last scene of the day at 10:30pm. Knife is resting in its case now. -John
I dont know if youre interested but the damascus steel on your knife is for aesthetics. The core of your knife (which is what shows near the edge) is what does the cutting. And yes it is still a very high quality knife. Id love to know if you read this comment and/or any feedback or questions.
That is a beautiful knife, but it hurt my soul to watch you cut your steak over a plate instead of a cutting board.
Another top notch video, Thanks dude!
My pleasure, bro! Thank you! -J
Hey John, how you doin?
AsianLovePotato unagui
Pretty good. You?
ONLY in JAPAN hahaha, I'm good too. Another nice video by the way, keep up the good work :)
Great vídeo, Amazing Channel. I'm from Brazil, living here in Japan, near Nagoya. After watching this vídeo, I'll go to Seki in the summer holiday for sure!
That's no knife! *draws a katana* THIS is a knife! LOL
Knife to meet you.
Reminds me of the episode on the Tokyo Fish market, where his knife was basically a sword.
Bob Walsh *cuts hand off* *WHY ME!*
The postcard idea is great!
This "next up" stuff was distracting. Didn't like that. Otherwise nice video as always. :)
It's new because a lot of people who sent feedback said some parts are too long, some say to make it longer. It was a compromise -- so if it feels long, I'll limit it so it's not so annoying in the future. I can see how it can be annoying as well as a way to keep people watching. Thanks for the feedback! -john
Thanks for the reply. I want it too be longer. :)
Alternatively, you can use timestamps of the sections below the video. Some youtubers do that. I could ignore that and people who aren't really interested can use those timestamps instead. (^0^)
Your videos are great! I love the production value, it's much better than the simple v-logs...