Step into a centuries-old blacksmith village on Hanoi’s outskirts and forge your own knife with Vietnam’s only female master artisan of Da Sy.
In this hands-on knife making workshop, you’ll join their daily rhythm of fire and steel. Guided step by step by the artisan and your local tour guide, you’ll transform a simple piece of steel into a personal knife: heating it in the roaring forge, hammering it to shape, sharpening it on the grinding stone, carving and fitting your own handle and finally engraving your name on the blade.
By the end, you won’t just bring home a knife — you’ll carry a story of resilience, craft, and the joy of creation.
Discover Da Sy, a historic blacksmith village from the 16th–17th century that once forged tools for farmers and weapons for independence.
Work side by side with the village’s only female master artisan, who has spent over 44 years at the forge keeping this craft alive.
Heat, hammer, sharpen, and craft your own handle — bring home a functional, personal knife and a story you’ll never forget.
“What an amazing last minute booking! From first booking right to seeing us safe to transport, the team was forever friendly and accommodating. Very helpful and patient with other languages in translating and questions. Chiến is in no doubt a generational master of the craft and is more than willing to share his wisdom/experience (and let you make your own mistakes along the way). But not to worry, he'll kindly guide you back with your progress to have a unique item of your own. Mint was an exceptional guide, giving you plenty of local & historical knowledge. Translation and setting the vibe for the whole experience is a tough job, she navigates this while managing a group of strangers! What a legend! I would highly recommend booking this experience, you'll have yourself something to take back that you can proudly say you made from start to finish. I know it'll be my favourite souvenir to use at home, not only for its quality but for the memories made while crafting it here.”
Arrive at the historic blacksmith village. Meet your host at the Artisan House, enjoy a welcome tea, and hear stories about the village's 400-year history.
Step into the workshop. Learn safety techniques, select your steel, and begin the heating and hammering process under the master's guidance.
Sharpen your blade using traditional grinding stones. Watch the master apply heat treating techniques passed down through generations.
Carve and fit a wooden handle to your knife. Perform final polishing and engraving your name (optional).