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Drawing on nearly a thousand years of history, this Tokyo Sword Museum offers a look at Japan’s sword-making tradition. Swords originally served as weapons. Over time, they came to represent samurai ideals of honor and discipline. Many were even regarded as objects of worship and art. Fittingly, no costumed performers or anime-style theatrics detract from the swords on display inside the elegant, minimalist building.
A free first-floor information corner explains the forging process, while the third-floor gallery presents the swords in custom-made cases to show off their forms. Even complete beginners will appreciate the craftsmanship and heritage on display.
The Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords operates the Tokyo Sword Museum, working to maintain the skills needed to forge, polish, and repair blades and fittings. Decades of donations have built its collection, which also includes archival materials highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the Japanese sword.
Featuring a shop stocked with books and sword-themed gifts, the institution sits in a corner of the attractive Kyu-Yasuda Garden and can easily be combined with a visit to the newly renovated Edo-Tokyo Museum. The Kokugikan (National Sumo Arena) is also nearby. —<a href="https://destinasian.com/contributor/louise-george-kittaka">Louise George Kittaka</a>
Access: Six minutes from Ryogoku Station
<a href="https://www.touken.or.jp/english?DestinAsian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">touken.or.jp/english</a> 
1-12-9 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0015

The modern interior of the Tokyo Sword Museum contrasts with the traditional crafts within.

Tokyo Sword Museum: Strong Traditions