備前長船 刀剣博物館
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Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum

4.1
·1k reviews·Setouchi, Japan

Discover the ancient art of Japanese sword making at the Bizen Osafune museum, featuring master craftsmen and historical blades.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Second & Fourth Sundays

See live sword making!

CrowdMedium
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備前長船 刀剣博物館

Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum

Best Time

Second & Fourth Sundays

See live sword making!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the ancient art of Japanese sword making at the Bizen Osafune museum, featuring master craftsmen and historical blades.

4.1
(1k reviews)

"An amazing collection of swords and a place to see them actually being made by master craftsmen."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Demonstration Dates

Demonstrations are key! Confirm dates on their website, usually 2nd & 4th Sundays.

🚗 Taxi Recommended

Public transport is tough. Taxis are rare, so plan your journey or consider a taxi from Kagato station.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Master Craftsmen at Work

Master Craftsmen at Work

Active Workshops

Witness the ancient art of sword making as master craftsmen forge blades. A truly captivating display of skill and tradition.

Ancient Blade Collection

Ancient Blade Collection

Museum Exhibits

Marvel at a fine collection of historical Japanese swords, including katana and wakizashi dating back to the 13th century.

The Art of Sword Appreciation

The Art of Sword Appreciation

Exhibition Halls

Learn the proper etiquette for appreciating Japanese swords, a crucial aspect of understanding their cultural significance.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Sword Museum

The Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum is a must-see for sword enthusiasts. While admission is a reasonable ¥300, public transport can be tricky. Consider a taxi from Kagato station or check demonstration schedules beforehand for a truly immersive experience.

Timing Your Sword-Making Experience

Witnessing master craftsmen at work is a highlight, but demonstrations are limited. Check the museum's website for their monthly schedule, typically on the second and fourth Sundays, to catch these rare events and avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Second & Fourth Sundays
Why
See live sword making!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more focus
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Learning ancient Samurai techniques from someone as experienced as Sumida-san was an unforgettable experience!!! If you want to make the most of your time off in Japan, be sure to check out his Samurai experience at Iai Yabusame at @GetYourGuide #japan #samurai #katana #tokyo #japantravel #makememories #getyourguidepartner
@jesseogn
171.3K likes • 3.4M views

🎯 Check Demonstration Dates

Demonstrations are key! Confirm dates on their website, usually 2nd & 4th Sundays. Reddit

🚗 Taxi Recommended

Public transport is tough. Taxis are rare, so plan your journey or consider a taxi from Kagato station. Reddit

Book the experience for your next trip in Japan! Real sword cutting performance in Osafune, the home of Japanese Swords. #setouchicity #osafune #okayama #samurai #japanesesword
@setouchi_city
40.8K likes • 454.1K views
Please do not speak over Japanese art swords when appreciating them. Appearing on Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai (2nd appearance) with Tumi from the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum. 美術日本刀を鑑賞する時にはしゃべってはいけない。笑。ぜひご覧になってください。29日TBS.
thejapanesesword
21 likes • 361 views

💰 Incredible Value

Admission is only ¥300 – an amazing price for the quality and experience. Reddit

🗣️ English Info Limited

More English explanations would be great, but the visual displays are still compelling. Reddit

Please do not speak over Japanese art swords when appreciating them. Appearing on Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai (2nd appearance) with Tumi from the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum. 美術日本刀を鑑賞する時にはしゃべってはいけない。笑。ぜひご覧になってください。29日TBS.
thejapanesesword
11 likes • 229 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Demonstration Dates

Demonstrations are key! Confirm dates on their website, usually 2nd & 4th Sundays. Reddit

🚗 Taxi Recommended

Public transport is tough. Taxis are rare, so plan your journey or consider a taxi from Kagato station. Reddit

💰 Incredible Value

Admission is only ¥300 – an amazing price for the quality and experience. Reddit

🗣️ English Info Limited

More English explanations would be great, but the visual displays are still compelling. Reddit

🤝 Gift Receiving Etiquette

Always use two hands when giving or receiving gifts, a key cultural lesson. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.1
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum to be a fascinating and worthwhile destination, especially for its impressive collection of historical swords and the rare opportunity to witness live sword-making demonstrations. The extremely low admission price is frequently highlighted as exceptional value. However, some guests note that English information could be more extensive, and accessing the museum via public transport requires careful planning.

"Very interesting story of sword making in the area. Fine collection of blades as well.
There are demonstrations two times a month (check their website..I think it was second and fourth Sundays, but don't trust my memory).
Definitely worth a visit if you're interested in blades and their construction."

Jeffrey Francis

"An amazing collection of swords! Also a in depth place to see swords actually being made by master craftsmen"

only ivory

"Really interesting place to visit and find out about sword making. Demonstration of smithing and other skills. Well worth a visit!"

Greg Bath

What People Like

Fascinating sword collection
Live blacksmith demonstrations
Incredible value for money

What People Dislike

Limited English information
Difficult public transport access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Accessing the museum via public transport can be challenging. The nearest station is Kagato, which is about a 25-minute walk away. Taxis are scarce in the area. Some visitors recommend taking a taxi from JR Oku Station. Reddit

Yes, free parking is available at the museum, making it a convenient option if you're traveling by car. Reddit

While the JR Pass covers travel to stations like JR Oku, it doesn't directly solve the last-mile transportation issue to the museum itself. You'll still need to arrange local transport. Reddit

From Osaka, you can travel to Kagato station, but be prepared for a significant walk or the need for a taxi to reach the museum. Reddit

The museum is described as being 'out in the sticks,' suggesting that accommodations might be limited in the immediate vicinity. It's best to check accommodation options in larger nearby cities and plan a day trip. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is incredibly affordable at just ¥300, offering excellent value for the experience. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for museum entry. However, for special events or demonstrations, it's always wise to check the museum's official website. Reddit

With an admission fee of only ¥300, there are no widely advertised discounts, as it's already extremely reasonably priced. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to consult the official Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Yes, demonstrations by master craftsmen are held, typically on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. It's crucial to verify the schedule on their website. Reddit

🎫 ⚔️ Onsite Experience

You can explore a fine collection of historical Japanese swords, including katana and wakizashi, and witness live sword-making demonstrations by master craftsmen. TikTokReddit

The museum offers some English information, but visitors have noted that more detailed English explanations about the history and production would be beneficial. Reddit

While you can see many swords on display, the museum focuses on appreciating them as art. Some experiences might offer handling of replicas, but direct handling of historical blades is unlikely. TikTok

Bizen is renowned as one of the most important historical sword-making provinces in Japan, producing blades for centuries. The museum showcases this rich heritage. Reddit

The live demonstrations of sword making by craftsmen are the most interactive and engaging aspects of the museum experience. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🥢 Food & Dining

Information on dining facilities within the museum is limited. It's advisable to check their official website or plan to dine in nearby towns. Reddit

Given its location, expect local Japanese cuisine in nearby towns. Researching restaurants in cities like Okayama or Bizen City would be recommended. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to consume outside food in designated areas or outside the museum premises to maintain the exhibits. Reddit

The museum compound might offer pleasant outdoor areas, but it's best to confirm if picnicking is permitted. Reddit

Finding specific dietary options like vegetarian meals might require research into local restaurants in the broader Bizen area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's essential to look for signage within the museum or inquire at the information desk. Some exhibits may prohibit flash photography. Instagram

The sword-making demonstrations offer dynamic photo opportunities. The well-displayed blades themselves also make for striking images. TikTok

Generally, photographing demonstrations is allowed, but always be respectful of the craftsmen's work and avoid intrusive behavior. TikTok

Filming might have stricter rules than photography. Check with museum staff for specific guidelines on video recording. TikTok

Weekday mornings might offer softer, more natural light for photography, especially if indoor lighting is subdued. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum can be an engaging experience for families, especially if children have an interest in samurai and Japanese history. The live sword-making demonstrations are particularly captivating and can hold a child's attention. TikTok The visual aspect of the swords themselves, with their intricate designs, can also spark curiosity. Reddit

However, parents should be aware that the museum's primary focus is on historical artifacts and craftsmanship. While there are some English explanations, they might be limited, so consider preparing your children with some background information beforehand. The transportation can also be a factor, so planning for a taxi or ensuring comfortable walking shoes is advisable. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum is an absolute gem. With an admission fee of only ¥300, it offers an incredibly rich cultural experience without breaking the bank. Reddit This makes it an excellent addition to any itinerary focused on value. Reddit

While the museum itself is inexpensive, be mindful of transportation costs. If relying on public transport, factor in potential taxi fares from the nearest stations. However, the low entry fee still makes it a highly recommended and affordable cultural outing. Reddit

🗡️ History & Culture Enthusiasts

This museum is a pilgrimage site for anyone passionate about Japanese history and the samurai era. The Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum offers a deep dive into the art of sword making, a craft central to samurai culture. Reddit You'll find a remarkable collection of historical blades and witness the traditional techniques still practiced today. TikTokReddit

The museum's location in Bizen, a historically significant sword-making region, adds another layer of authenticity. It's an opportunity to connect with centuries of tradition and understand the craftsmanship that shaped Japanese martial history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Bizen Sword Making

Bizen province has been a cradle of Japanese sword making for over a thousand years, producing some of the finest blades in history. The Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing this rich legacy. The museum houses an impressive collection of swords, including katana and wakizashi, with some dating back to the 13th century. These blades are not just weapons but intricate works of art, reflecting the skill and dedication of generations of swordsmiths. Reddit

The museum also features active workshops where visitors can witness the traditional sword-making process firsthand. This is a rare opportunity to see master craftsmen at work, from the forging of the steel to the final polishing. The demonstrations are a highlight for many visitors, offering a tangible connection to the samurai era and the craftsmanship that defined it. TikTokReddit

Understanding the cultural significance of these swords is key to appreciating the museum. They were not merely tools of war but also symbols of status and honor. The museum provides insights into the history, production, and cultural context of Japanese swords, making it an educational and captivating experience for history buffs and art lovers alike. InstagramReddit

Navigating to the Museum

Reaching the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum requires some planning, especially if you're relying on public transportation. The museum is located in a more rural area, and the nearest train station, Kagato, is about a 25-minute walk away. Taxis are not readily available in this vicinity, which can make the final leg of your journey a bit challenging. Reddit

For those traveling from further afield, like Osaka, you can take a train to JR Oku Station. From there, a taxi is often recommended to cover the remaining distance to the museum. If you are driving, the museum offers free parking, which is a significant convenience. Reddit

Given the transportation nuances, it's highly recommended to check the museum's official website for the most current access information and consider your travel options carefully before setting out. Planning ahead will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit to this unique cultural site. Reddit

Experiencing Sword Appreciation Etiquette

The Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum emphasizes not just the display of swords but also the proper way to appreciate them. This cultural aspect is crucial to understanding the reverence held for these historical artifacts. Visitors are reminded that speaking loudly or disrespectfully when viewing Japanese art swords is discouraged. Instagram+1

This emphasis on etiquette highlights that Japanese swords are considered works of art and cultural treasures, not just historical weapons. Learning and observing these customs enhances the visitor's understanding and respect for the craftsmanship and history embodied in each blade. Instagram+1

TikTok videos also touch upon the importance of proper etiquette in Japanese culture, such as using two hands when giving or receiving gifts. This principle extends to how one interacts with significant cultural items like swords, underscoring the value placed on respect and mindfulness. TikTok

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