Bizen Osafune Sword Museum (備前長船刀剣博物館)
Location: 966 Osafunecho Osafune, Setouchi-shi, Okayama-ken, Japan
Nearby:
About
Located in Setouchi-shi, Okayama-ken, the Bizen Osafune Sword Museum is dedicated to the art and history of Japanese sword-making. The museum showcases an impressive collection of blades crafted by historical master swordsmiths from the Bizen region, known for producing some of the finest cutting weapons in Japan's history. Beyond its exhibits, the museum functions as an educational hub, offering workshops and seminars where visitors can learn about the intricate process of forging and maintaining traditional Japanese swords. Special events are often held, including demonstrations by master swordsmiths and unique exhibits such as swords from the legendary Evangelion animated series. It is Japan's only public sword museum, located in Osafune, a historical hub for excellent sword masters.
Gallery
Highlights
- Seeing master swordsmiths at work
- Attending a sword maintenance seminar
- Talking to master craftspeople
- Witnessing firsthand the sword-making process
- Special events and exhibits like the Evangelion animated series swords
- Trying sword forging on the second Sunday of each month
- Viewing six special exhibitions held annually on the first and second floors
Operating Hours
| Monday | Closed (or following day if national holiday) |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00~17:00 (last admission 16:30) |
| Wednesday | 9:00~17:00 (last admission 16:30) |
| Thursday | 9:00~17:00 (last admission 16:30) |
| Friday | 9:00~17:00 (last admission 16:30) |
| Saturday | 9:00~17:00 (last admission 16:30) |
| Sunday | 9:00~17:00 (last admission 16:30) |
Note: Closed from December 28 to January 4. The latest information may differ, so please check the official website.
Admission
| General | Information not available |
|---|---|
| Students | Information not available |
| Children | Information not available |
| Seniors | Information not available |
Discounts: Information not available
Notes: Admission fees may vary; check official website for updates.
Access
Public Transport: Take the Ako Line from JR Okayama Station to JR Osafune Station, then a taxi to the Sword Museum.
Driving: Information not available
Parking: Information not available
Facilities
Restrooms: Available (assumed based on standard museum facilities)
Gift Shop: Information not available
Restaurant/Cafe: Information not available
Accessibility: Information not available
Guided Tours: Workshops and seminars available