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Japanese Sword Museum: A Glimpse into Samurai Artistry

Discover the exquisite artistry and cultural heritage of Japanese swords at the Japanese Sword Museum in Tokyo.

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The Japanese Sword Museum in Tokyo showcases the artistry and cultural significance of Japanese swords. Operated by the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords, the museum displays a variety of swords, mountings, and armor, some designated as National Treasures. It offers a fascinating insight into the craftsmanship and history of these iconic weapons.

A brief summary to Japanese Sword Museum

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for information on current exhibitions and events before your visit.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Edo-Tokyo Museum, Sumo Museum, or Kyu-Yasuda Teien Garden.
  • Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi to access guidance via QR codes, as most labels are not in English.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Japanese Sword Museum is a short walk from Ryogoku Station, which is accessible via the JR Sobu Line and the Toei Oedo Line. From Ryogoku Station, walk north past the Kokugikan Sumo Stadium and Kyu-Yasuda Garden. The museum is located on the next corner on your right. Subway tickets typically cost between ¥100-¥200 for a single trip. A day pass for unlimited travel is around ¥800.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. From Tokyo Station to the Japanese Sword Museum, a taxi ride would be approximately 5 km and cost around ¥2,900-¥3,500. Note that traffic conditions may affect the final fare.

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Discover more about Japanese Sword Museum

Located in Tokyo's Sumida City, the Japanese Sword Museum, or Tōken hakubutsukan, is dedicated to preserving and displaying the art of Japanese swordmaking. The museum is run by the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (NBTHK), also known as The Society for Preservation of Japanese Art Swords, which was founded in 1948 to safeguard Japanese swords from confiscation after World War II. The NBTHK aims to conserve swords with artistic value, make them accessible to the public, and support the preservation of sword forging and polishing techniques. The museum's collection includes approximately 190 items, such as swords (mainly katana), mountings, and armor, with some pieces designated as National Treasures, Important Cultural Properties, and Important Art Objects. The exhibits change several times a year, displaying swords from different eras of Japanese history. Visitors can learn about the history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of Japanese swords, which have been considered not just weapons but also objects of worship and symbols of authority. The museum building itself is a modern structure designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Fumihiko Maki. It features a rooftop garden overlooking the Kyu-Yasuda Teien Garden, offering a picturesque view. The museum also has a cafe, a museum shop, and a reading room.

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