Sword Exhibition Room
This gallery displays swords crafted by swordsmiths active during the era of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Visitors can also explore videos demonstrating master craftsmanship, the history of the development of Seki swordsmithing, and valuable historical materials, including sword fittings and decorative accessories.
Cutlery Exhibition Room
This exhibition room features works by contemporary knife makers and regularly hosts special exhibitions. Through videos, historical documents, and displays, visitors can discover the history and techniques of Seki’s swordsmiths.
Exhibits include Japanese swords by the renowned Seki swordsmiths Kanemoto and Kanesada, custom-made knives, and works by knife makers from Japan and around the world.
Traditional Japanese Sword Forging Demonstrations
Once a month, the museum opens its traditional Japanese sword forging demonstrations to the public. Modern swordsmiths who carry on Seki’s outstanding techniques, developed over more than 700 years, demonstrate the traditional forging process.
The rhythmic “ton-ten-kan” sounds of hammering, accompanied by sparks flying from the glowing metal, create a powerful and memorable spectacle.
On the same day, visitors can also watch demonstrations of specialized sword-finishing techniques, including polishing and scabbard-making, performed by skilled craftspeople who work on the finishing and mounting of Japanese swords.
Special Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent displays, the museum regularly holds special exhibitions designed to appeal to everyone from beginners to dedicated Japanese sword enthusiasts.
Some exhibitions are collaborations with manga, anime, and films, introducing Japanese sword culture and the appeal of Seki swordsmithing to younger generations. Past collaborations have included Evangelion, The Boy and the Beast, and Star Wars.
Facility Guide
First Floor
- Sword Exhibition Room: Displays on the history of Seki swordsmithing and historical sword fittings.
- Demonstration Area: Demonstrations by swordsmiths and specialists in Japanese sword craftsmanship.
- Video Presentations: Films introducing the history and techniques of sword-making.
Second Floor
- Modern and Contemporary Cutlery: Exhibits featuring products from the modern cutlery industry.
- Custom Knife Collection: A collection of knives created by custom knife makers.
Public Demonstrations of Traditional Sword Forging and Mounting Techniques
- First Forging Ceremony of the Year: January 2, from 10:00 a.m.
- Regular Public Demonstrations: First Sunday of each month, except October and January, at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Seki Cutlery Festival Demonstrations: Saturday and Sunday before Sports Day in October, at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.