The Japanese Sword Museum

Opening Times:10 am – 4 30 pm
(closed on Mondays)

Entrance fee: 525 Yen

Address: 4-25-10 Yoyogi, Shibuyaku, Tokio 151-0053

www.touken.or.jp

Map

The Japanese Sword Museum

On Wednesday the 19^th of April 2006 I made an excursion to the Japanese Sword Museum in Yoyogi, Shibuyaku, Tokio. See my map above for directions getting from the Tokio train station to the Japanese Sword Museum via the Subway. The entrance fee is a modest 525 Yen (under 4€). Picture taking is prohibited.

Here one can really experience the beauty of the Japanese sword, and acknowledge the mastership of the Japanese sword makers. One is made well aware of the tedious and complicated procedures that were necessary for the production of a high quality sword. I was fascinated by the fact that the original swords from the various periods were in such good condition, considering that most of the swords were several hundreds of years old. There is a slight eerie feeling when one walks by the displays, and one cannot help feeling being transported into a bygone era. A yoroi (Japanese armour) was also on display, probably a general, or something, judging by the splendor of the yoroi.
In the museum there is also a really nice collection of tsubas (hand guards). Two interesting pamphlets 'Manual for Appreciating the Japanese Sword' and 'Manual of How to Handle and Take Care of Swords' can be collected at the entrance lobby. These are for free and have been translated into English. Various Books, Videos, Souvenirs and other goodies can also be bought here. Well worth noting, is that beautiful sword bags are sold here. I would recommend taking enough cash with you, because here, as in most places, credit cards aren't accepted.

All in all, a well worth visit, and a definite must for the sword lover, as well as practitioners of Bujinkan, Iaido and Kendo. As all displays have Japanese descriptions, I would recommend printing out the following list as a reference before visiting the Japanese Sword Museum.

Oliver Kühn, 25^th July 2006