A Guide to Observations in Yingjisha Pocket Knife Village
The Craft Code of a Small Knife
The Yingjisha small knife is one of the representatives of Uyghur craftsmanship: the blade is forged, and the handle is inlaid with bone and decorated with patterns, with generations in the village making a living from knives. Visiting the village to watch artisans cut materials, grind, and inlay on-site, and then selecting a finished knife with your name engraved on it, is the most ceremonial souvenir experience in southern Xinjiang.
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Destination Details
Knife making, from steel selection and forging to handle decoration, is entirely handcrafted. The inlaid mother-of-pearl and silver wire on the handle are the most recognizable details. Visitors can tour the workshops in the village and custom engraving can be commissioned.
How to Visit
- Workshop: Observe the forging and inlaying processes, with craftsmen chatting as they work
- Choosing a knife: Inquire about prices according to the knife type and handle material; names can be engraved
- Carrying: Knives cannot be carried on planes; use checked baggage or shipping
When purchasing, follow the regulations for open blades and packaging; the village can assist with shipping channels. Ask the craftsmen before taking photographs.
