Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum (関鍛冶伝承館)
Location: 9-1 Minamikasuga-cho, Seki, Gifu, Japan
Nearby:
About
Located in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, the Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum is dedicated to the history and tradition of blade-making that dates back over 700 years. Seki is one of the most well-known and highly regarded blade-producing areas in the world, alongside Germany's Solingen and England's Sheffield. The museum offers displays of documents and videos for visitors to learn about this craft, and on designated days, it hosts live demonstrations of traditional Japanese sword forging. A notable event is the Uchizome-shiki ceremony on January 2nd, marking the first forging of the year, where swordsmiths in traditional attire create a powerful display of sparks while pounding raw steel. The museum provides an exciting opportunity to witness the ancient art of sword-making, though demonstrations are not held daily, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Gallery
Highlights
- Watching live demonstrations of Japanese sword forging with flying sparks
- Viewing the Uchizome-shiki ceremony on January 2nd, marking the first forging of the year
- Exploring over 700 years of blade-making history through documents and videos
- Learning about Seki City's global reputation as a blade-producing center
- Witnessing swordsmiths in traditional white attire during special events
Operating Hours
| Monday | 9:00am - 4:30pm |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 9:00am - 4:30pm |
| Thursday | 9:00am - 4:30pm |
| Friday | 9:00am - 4:30pm |
| Saturday | 9:00am - 4:30pm |
| Sunday | 9:00am - 4:30pm |
Note: Closed on Tuesdays and the day following national holidays. Check official website for demonstration schedules and potential closures.
Admission
| General | 300 yen |
|---|---|
| Students | High School: 200 yen, Middle and Elementary School: 100 yen |
| Children | 100 yen (Middle and Elementary School) |
| Seniors | Information not available |
Discounts: Group discounts available (for groups of at least 20 people, tickets are discounted by 50 yen each)
Notes: Check official website for any updates to admission fees.
Access
Public Transport: 5-minute walk from the Nagaragawa Railway Hamono Kaikanmae Station
Driving: Information not available
Parking: Information not available
Facilities
Restrooms: Information not available, assumed available based on standard museum facilities
Gift Shop: Information not available
Restaurant/Cafe: Information not available
Accessibility: Information not available, check official website for details
Guided Tours: Information not available