The Japan Sword Museum

The workmanship of Japanese swords has long fascinated westerners, and the Japan Sword Museum is an essential stop for katana enthusiasts.

The weapons are beautifully displayed in a single room and many are famous in their own right. They were made by some of Japan’s most skilled master craftsmen and some are as much as 800 years old. The museum houses katana, wakizashi, tanto and taichi, as well as collections of tsuba and intricate saya scabbards.

We also highly recommend a visit to the nearby Aoi Art, a specialist shop dealing in ancient swords, spears, naginata, and armour. Even if you aren’t going to make a purchase, it is well worth taking some time to look at the displays.