Japanese Sword Museum (Token Hakubutsukan)

The basics

The Japanese Sword Museum intends to preserve Japanese swords with artistic value, as well as the traditional methods of creating them. Many items and techniques were nearly lost after World War II, when many swords were confiscated. The museum displays permanent and temporary exhibits that focus on specific artisans or periods. Travelers interested in visiting the Japanese Sword Museum can do so independently, or with a guide on a customizable private tour of Tokyo. As it’s located in the Ryogoku area, near the sumo stadium, there are a number of other interesting attractions nearby.

Things to know before you go

• Entrance fees vary depending on the exhibition. Children under 15 are free.
• There’s an on-site bookstore selling books in several languages.
• Displays have English translations.

How to get there

The easiest way of reaching the museum is via train or subway. Either take the JR Sobu Line to Ryogoku Station and leave from the west exit, or take the Toei Subway’s Oedo Line to Ryogoku Station and leave from the A1 exit.

When to get there

Like many Japanese museums, this one is closed on Mondays unless a public holiday falls on a Monday, in which case it will be closed on Tuesday that week instead. It’s also closed during the New Year holiday period, and when exhibitions are being changed.

Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum

The Japanese Sword Museum is near the better-known Edo-Tokyo Museum, and travelers who are interested in learning more about the history of Tokyo and Japan should visit this excellent museum, too. The large Edo-Tokyo Museum has lifelike displays showing what life used to be like in Tokyo (or Edo, as it was once called), including a life-size replica of the famous Nihonbashi bridge.

Ways to explore

The Japanese Sword Museum preserves Japanese swords with artistic value, as well as the traditional methods of creating them. Many items and techniques related to swordsmithing were nearly lost after World War II, when many swords were confiscated. The museum displays permanent and temporary exhibits that focus on specific artisans or periods.

You can visit the Japanese Sword Museum independently, or with a guide on a customizable private tour of Tokyo. As the museum is located in the Ryogoku area, near the sumo stadium, there are a number of other interesting attractions nearby.

Accessibility

The museum is fully accessible, with accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and wheelchairs available to borrow

Age limits

None

What to pack

Small bag, reusable shopping bags for souvenir purchases

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, a light jacket for indoor air conditioning

Not allowed

Photographing some exhibits is prohibited—adhere to any signs.

Amenities

Gift store, café, rooftop garden

Address

The museum is located in Ryogoku, east of the Sumida River. It’s near the Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena and the Edo Tokyo Museum—two other must-visit traditional attractions. It’s easy to get there by public transportation.

Driving

There’s little need to drive in central Tokyo, but if you must, head east of Asakusa and cross the Ryogoku Bridge. Follow Kokugikan-dori until you reach the museum, at the northwestern edge of the Former Yasuda Garden.

Public transportation

Either take the JR Sobu Line to Ryogoku Station and leave from the west exit (the museum is a short walk north), or take the Toei Subway’s Oedo Line to Ryogoku Station and leave from the A1 exit (the museum is a short walk north-west).

Best times to visit

The museum is open from mid-morning until early evening, with last admission 30 minutes before closing—although most visitors will want to spend longer than this looking around.

Best days to visit

The museum is open every day except Mondays, unless a public holiday falls on a Monday, in which case it will be closed the following day.

Best months to visit

As this is an indoor attraction, you can visit the museum at any time of year, whatever the weather.