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On view at Museum Bronbeek from Friday, 17 April 2026: the temporary exhibition on the shin-guntō. The Japanese officer’s sword of the Second World War was both a symbol of centuries-old samurai honor and an instrument of military authority. The exhibition Shin-guntō: Tussen Eer en Terreur (Between Honor and Violence) shows how tradition, ideology, and warfare converged in a single weapon. More than 25 swords are on display, including 10 Yasukuni-tō. https://www.bronbeek.nl/onderwerpen/t/tijdelijke-tentoonstelling

As part of the "Kitano Past and Present: Kitano Swords x Modern Blades" exhibition currently at the Kitano Tenmangu Treasure Hall there will be a special demonstration this Saturday, 28 March featuring: Forging by Swordsmiths Polishing by Tamaki Shiroji Habaki making by Hirata Minoru Tsuka-maki by Toyama Kazuyasu Engraving by Munekaze Kinoshita It will be an exciting event where you can view these master craftsman demonstrating the traditional techiniques required to make complete a Japanese Sword.

The National Treasure "Tachi Mumei Ichimonji Yamatorige" will be on display at the Bizen Osafune Sword Museum in 2026 is as follows: March 20th (Fri) - March 29th (Sun) *Open every day, the mounting will also be on display PLEASE NOTE THAT IT WILL BE REMOVED FROM DISPLAY FOR MOST OF APRIL. April 25th (Sat) - May 6th (Wed) *Closed on April 27th and 30th, the mounting will not be on display There will be no reservations (number limits) for entry to this public display. Therefore, there will be no "2-minute exclusive viewing." Please view the sword without stopping during crowded times. *A special viewing with limited numbers is being planned for the evening (details to be announced later). A shuttle bus service will be operated from JR Osafune Station during the exhibition period. #Yamatorige #BizenOsafuneSwordMuseum

Discover the reality behind a millennium of myth at this sweeping exhibition on the legendary Japanese warriors. The samurai is an iconic figure, evoking images of formidable fighters possessing ideals of courage, honour and self-sacrifice. Yet much of what we think we know about samurai is invented tradition. Our concept of samurai today has its origins in medieval reality. A distinct warrior class – known in Japan as bushi – emerged and gained political dominance from the 1100s. But during a prolonged period of peace, beginning in 1615, the samurai moved away from the battlefield to become an elite social class that also included women. Samurai men formed the government, serving as ministers and bureaucrats. Many became leaders in scholarship and the arts, as patrons, poets and painters, in a world where intellectual pursuits were just as important as swordsmanship. By the late 19th century, the hereditary status of samurai had been abolished and their supposed chivalric values developed into the myth of bushido, or 'the way of the warrior'. This new code, promoting values of patriotism and self-sacrifice, was harnessed during Japan's period of colonial expansion and military aggression. The modern mythology of the 'samurai' emerged gradually across the 20th century through interactions between Japan and the wider world, with idealised images of the historical warriors increasingly consumed by foreign visitors. The story of the evolution of the samurai is told through battle gear such as the suit of armour sent by Tokugawa Hidetada to James VI and I, as well as luxury objects such as an intriguing incense connoisseurship game. From a Louis Vuitton outfit inspired by Japanese armour, to the popular, loosely historical videogame Assassin's Creed: Shadows, the exhibition explores the samurai's enduring legacy in games, fashion and film. This major exhibition is a candid look at the real men and women whom we know as samurai, from the battlefields of medieval Japan to the global pop culture of today. Price : Adults from £23, Members and under-16s free.

A special exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Maeda Ikutokukai, the cultural legacy of the Kaga Maeda Clan is being showcased to its fullest glory. Historically significant, this is the first time in 60 years that the entire collection of cultural assets handed down through the family will be publicly displayed. The exhibition covers the clan’s history through artifacts, including armor and swords worn by successive heads starting with Toshiie, as well as calligraphy, classic books, tea ceremony utensils, and Noh costumes. It also details the founding of the Ikutokukai through the collecting activities of the 16th head, Toshinari. The audio guide is narrated by voice actors Daisuke Namikawa and Reona Irie. More information can be found here. Cost: ￥2,300

THE TIME OF THE SAMURAI exhibition at the National Museum in Lublin will explore the life and culture of the samurai, from the emergence of this social group to its decline. Stories of intrigue, betrayal, and conspiracies will be interwoven with tales of honor, loyalty, and courage. For more information click here.

Takaoka 　The Hirosaki Domain History Museum in Takaoka, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, is holding a special exhibition, "Swords of the Hirosaki Domain," at the museum. A special exhibition focusing on swords related to the history and people of the Hirosaki domain. There are 38 pieces lined up, mainly swords. Until May 31st. 　The highlights are the "Tachi sword with the inscription Tomonari" and "Tachi sword with the inscription Mamoru," both of which are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. This is the first time the two have exhibited together in two years The sword with the inscription "Made by Tomonari" is said to have been given to the first feudal lord, Tsugaru Tamenobu, by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and was handed down to the Tsugaru family as a treasured sword The sword with the inscription "Mamoru" was used by the fourth generation Nobumasa. 　In 1821 (Bunsei 4), a sword believed to have beheaded Soma and Seki was also on display in connection with the attempted attack on the 9th head of the clan, Yasuchika, by former Morioka samurai Shimotome Hidenoshin (commonly known as Soma Daisaku) and Seki Ryosuke The striking red inscription reads, "We have cut two heads off evil villains for the sake of our country." 　In 52 (Kaei 5), the mother of Akaishi Aitaro, a samurai of the Hirosaki domain, was murdered by a ronin, and in 54 (Kaei 7), Akaishi killed the enemy in what is now Ibaraki Prefecture. Also on display is the sword with the inscription "Bizen Kunizumi Kagemitsu," which was used at the time. A newspaper version that describes Akaishi's revenge is also on display. 　Other items on display include the unsigned "flat triangular spear" that is said to have been owned by Tanaka Tarogoro, who was killed in battle as Tamenobu's double, and swords related to the feudal lord and his family. 　Ikenotani Masasuke (44), a curator at the museum, said, "There are also swords on display that are quite episodic, so I hope people will take this opportunity to come and see them." 　As an event related to the special exhibition, a basic course on sword appreciation will be held at the museum on the 26th and May 16th. For more information click here.

At the Kuwana City Museum's spring special exhibition, "Touken Dazzling (Genyo) ―Reviving Muramasa at Kuwana Sosha Shrine―," they will unveil two pieces of lacquer-polished Mie Prefecture designated cultural property, "Tachi Inscribed Muramasa" (Kuwana Sosha Shrine Collection), and exhibit treasures handed down at Kuwana Sosha Shrine. In addition, special exhibits "The World of Misaki Family Documents" and "Sword Collection Ⅳ" will also be held at the same time. Venue: Kuwana City Museum (Mie) Admission fee ｜ 150 yen for high school students and above, free for junior high school students and below For more information click here.

Displaying precious Yamato Japanese swords, including the national treasure "Tachi, Inscribed Yasutsugu" and a replica of the "Shichiseiken" associated with Prince Shotoku. Paintings and calligraphies related to Bushido will also be on display. To find out more click here.

The Japan Art Fair (JAF) celebrates the enduring legacy of Japanese culture, bringing together extraordinary artifacts that reflect over a millennium of artistry and tradition. From samurai weapons and armor to timeless antiques, JAF offers a captivating exploration of Japan’s rich and storied history. For more information click here.

Gifu Prefecture Museum is celebrating it's 50th anniversary of opening with a very special exhibition featuring the Tokugawa Art Museum's sword collection, which is associated with the Owari Tokugawa family, to commemorate this occasion. Boasting one of the nation's leading collections of samurai culture, the Tokugawa Art Museum has been home to swords associated with the Owari domain and the Owari Tokugawa family for generations, all made up of bequests from Tokugawa Ieyasu. They are unrivaled not only in their "quality," each with its own history, but also in their "quantity," which counts hundreds of items. Among these, hidden behind famous swords and specialties, there are quite a few swords made by Mino blacksmiths that have been missed from public display until now. This exhibition provides a comprehensive introduction to swords from the Tokugawa Art Museum's collection, including swords from Mino and Owari, which have rarely been on public display until now. During the Sengoku period, Mino swords, which were forged and used locally by the people of Japan as practical swords, were praised for their sharpness and ease of use, but their value was often overlooked. These unknown masterpieces of Mino swords, which will be brought together to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Gifu Prefectural Museum, are likely to be of great significance to the public in Gifu. For more information please click here.

The Honnō-ji Treasure Hall Museum, in Kyoto will be hosting the "Five Sword Traditions Exhibition". The first exhibition will focus on the "Yamashiro and Yamato traditions." The exhibits include masterpieces from each of the schools, including Gosanjo, Senjuin, Yasumasa, Tegaki, and Shirikake. Oshigata swords are also displayed along themes, including Gojo Kuninaga, Ryumon, and Touma. For more information click here.

The Nagoya Sword Museum "Nagoya Token World" (Naka Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture) will hold a special exhibition "A Grand Collection of Various Swords". When you hear "Japanese sword," many people probably imagine the swords worn by samurai at their waists. However, the world of Japanese swords is incredibly diverse. In addition to name changes based on length, such as "tachi," "uchigatana," "wakizashi," and "tanto," "naginata" (a polearm with a sword blade at the end of a long handle) and "ken" (a double-edged sword) are also included in the family of Japanese swords. This exhibition allows you to see the history of swords spanning approximately 1,000 years, from the Heian period to the Heisei period, all in one place. Even if you are not very knowledgeable about swords, you are very welcome. Please experience how the shapes and uses of swords changed with each era through actual artifacts.

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, located in Tenmon, northwest of Kyoto, is a shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane. To mark the 1,125th anniversary of Michizane's death in 2027, the Kyoto National Museum will hold a special exhibition showcasing 17 National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, as well as items related to Tenjin worship from across Japan. For the first time ever, the entire Kitano Tenjin Engi Emaki (Jokyu Version), a National Treasure, will be on display, along with many other Important Cultural Properties, including the Koan Version, Mitsunobu Version, and Mitsuoki Version, showcasing the legendary birth of Kitano Tenjin. Also, the two tachi swords "Higekiri" and "Hizamaru", both designated Important Cultural Properties and held by the Kitano Tenamngu Shrine and Daikakuji Temple respectively, will be on display for the first time together during this special exhibition. And further more, the Kyoto National Museum has advised that Photography will be OK! Additionally, through works discovered through research by the Kyoto National Museum and the Kitano Cultural Research Institute, as well as a number of masterpieces handed down at Tenmangu Shrines, Tenjin Shrines, and temples throughout Japan, the exhibition will unravel the diverse aspects of Tenjin worship that have not been discussed much until now, and the important role that these have played in Japanese culture. Held in the 1F-2 exhibition room of the Heisei Chishinkan Wing of the Kyoto National Museum. To find out more click here.

Osaka Katana‑za returns to Shiromi Hall inside Osaka Castle! Osaka Katana-za is West Japan’s largest Japanese sword and sword-fittings exhibition and immediate sales event. Held annually in Osaka, it brings together over 40 top dealers, together with sword collectors, and sword professionals from across Japan. Unlike museums, Katana-za is a commercial exhibition, meaning all items on display are available for purchase. It is a rare opportunity to examine high-level Nihontō in person, speak directly with dealers, and handle pieces that seldom appear outside Japan. Dates: Saturday, March 28 & Sunday, March 29, 2026 Venue: Osaka Castle Hall – Jōken Hall Time: 10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30) Admission fee: 1,000 yen on the day, 900 yen advance Lawson ticket code 55755 For more information please click here.

Nagoya Sword Museum will be hosting it's very first exhibition of the now world famous tachi MIKAZUKI KANEMITSU that was purchased at Sotherby's from the Paul L. Davidson collection on the 25th March 2025 for an undisclosed amount via silent auction. This exhibition will only feature Bizen Swords showcasing the brilliant works of sword smiths active in Bizen Province (present-day Okayama Prefecture). There are going to be a proverbial festival of swords on display, see here. This is probably one of the most anticipated Nihonto exhibitions of the year. Prices: Adult: 1,200 yen Senior (65 years and older): 1,000 yen University: 500 yen Students: 300 yen Disabilities: Free For more information click here.

Hosted by the Toyama Japanese Sword Study Group. Listen to explanations and tour the Shusui museum, then hold a famous sword in your hands. Enjoy delicious winter seafood from the Sea of Japan, including winter yellowtail, and local sake, while chatting and exchanging information with fellow sword enthusiasts! This is a luxurious training camp packed with activities. Please join us! Beginners are welcome! Please feel free to inquire. Venue: ① Shusui Museum Tour (Capacity: 20 people) ② Training Camp: Minshuku Kozaburou, Ao, Himi City (Capacity: 20 people) ③ Famous Sword Appreciation Event (Capacity: 35 people) 10 swords and 5 sword fittings will be on display. *No bidding or appraisals will be held. Don't worry! Takaoka Techno Dome, Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture *You can choose to participate in only one of ①, ②, or ③. Please let us know which one you would like to participate in when registering. Fees: ① Museum admission is free (entrance fees are at your own expense). ② Training camp: ¥19,000 (includes one night's stay, two meals, drinks, and an after-party). A ¥500 one-way fare is required for those using the shuttle bus from the museum to the guesthouse and from the guesthouse to the exhibition venue. ③ Famous Sword Appreciation Club: ¥2,000 for Toyama Sword Research Society members, ¥2,500 for the general public. *Students receive a ¥500 discount on the exhibition membership fee. *First-time participants are required to attend an etiquette seminar. Course Fee: ¥500 Schedule: Saturday, February 14 1:00 PM Meet at Shusui Museum of Art (Toyama City) 1:00 PM - 3:50 PM Visit the Shusui Museum of Art's Tachi Praise Exhibition. 4:00 PM Shuttle bus departs from Shusui Museum of Art (5:00 PM arrival at the hotel). 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Social Gathering (may transition into an after-party if appropriate!) Sunday, February 15 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Breakfast (bus departs for the venue at 8:30 AM) 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Arrival at the venue. Unloading and setup begins. 10:30 AM –11:00 AM : Exhibition reception 11:00 AM –12:00 PM : Exhibition etiquette seminar (for those who are eligible) 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Sword and sword fittings appreciation 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Luncheon lecture (optional) 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Dismantling For more information or to register for the event please DM Toyoama Japanese Study Group - https://x.com/toyama_touken.

On the 2rd floor exhibition room From the mid-Heian to the late Muromachi period, the tachi was the predominant form of Japanese sword. Made over many centuries as a blade well suited to mounted warfare, the tachi survives today in numerous masterful examples. From the Muromachi period onward, however, with the rise of foot soldiers and the introduction of firearms shifting combat to the ground, the uchigatana came to replace the tachi in practical use. Even so, within warrior society the tachi retained high ceremonial status. It was prized as an object for presentation and as an essential element of formal attire in rituals, and its production continued for roughly a thousand years up to the present day. This exhibition, titled “In Praise of the Tachi,” traces the sword’s history from the Heian period to today, highlighting the distinctive features and points of interest of each era. For more information please click here.

This exhibition is presented by the Australian Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art and Swords, a private collectors' organisation dedicated to the research, preservation, and promotion of swords, sword fittings, armour, and related artefacts. This display features Japanese armour, masks, sword fittings, and other items dating from the late 16th century to the mid-19th century. Admire the armour crafted by Japanese artisans, the exceptional artistry, and the refined aesthetic sensibility of the samurai. For further information click here.

＼Let's Peek into the World of Samurai／ Focusing on various procedures associated with battles, the daily lives of samurai, and aspects of their lifestyle and culture, the exhibition introduces the real faces of samurai. Venue: 3rd Floor, Reimeikan, Special Exhibition Room Admission: Regular Exhibition Viewing Fee

The museum will simultaneously display the national treasure "Tanto with the inscription Bishu Osafunezumi Kagemitsu" (Kenshin Kagemitsu) and the national treasure "Tachi with the inscription Kagemitsu and Kagemasa." Both swords were created by Kagemitsu, a swordsmith of the Bizen Osafune school, and are known to have deep ties to the Okawara clan of Musashi samurai. This is a unique opportunity to see all the famous swords associated with Saitama Prefecture! Opening hours: 9:00 ～ 16:30 (viewing until 16:00) Closed: Mondays (However, February 23rd is a public holiday, so the museum is open.) Price: Adults: 300 yen, high school students: 150 yen [Group rate (20 or more people)] Adults: 200 yen, High school students: 100 yen ※Free for junior high school students and younger and those with a disability certificate (including one attendant). You can watch it by taking the "Gurutto Pass."

In addition to the regular collection of Kitano swords, which evoke the belief in Tenjin as the deity of martial arts, we will also be showcasing exquisite modern swords crafted by contemporary artisans. We will strive to promote sword culture by clearly showcasing the work of various artisans who preserve and pass on the ancient Japanese tradition of sword-making. This is a rare opportunity for contemporary artisans to bring their best works to the exhibition, so please come along. Organizer: Kitano Tenmangu Treasures Co-organizer: Public Interest Foundation & Kaha Association Admission Fee: ¥1,000 for Adults, ¥500 for Junior and Senior High School Students ¥250 for Elementary School Students and Students on School Trips

The Dōjigiri Yasutsuna will make a special appearance at the Tokyo National Museum from February 25 to May 17.

The Kusanagi-kan Sword Treasury can rightfully claim to be one of the most architecturally beautiful Sword Treasury/ Sword Museum in the world. Part of the Atsuta Shrine, the Kusanagi-kan Sword Treasury is open to all visitors before or after saying your prayers. There will be a total of 13 blades in the exhibition including a Tachi, signed by Tomoshige (Kaga) that is designated an Important Art Object by Aichi Prefecture. Please read the notice from the Atsuta Shrine regarding the festival events in February 2026 here. #草薙館 #熱田神宮 #太郎太刀 #次郎太刀 Information provided by: @etudes24 on X.

The 71st Exhibition of Newly Designated Important Swords will be held at the Sword Museum from January 10th to March 1st, 2026. More information about the exhibition can be found here.

Our meeting is at the JCCC 6 Garamond Toronto Ontario (Don Mills and Eglinton area). The meeting starts at 1:00 p.m. Meetings are usualy on the second floor. We will be having an election of officers and a kantei presentation.

San Francisco Token Kai @ San Francisco Airport Marriott Hotel. Hosted by Northern California Japanese Sword Club http://www.ncjsc.org/SF_token_kai.htm Team members: https://nthkamerica.com/team-1 Webpage details: http://ncjsc.org/SF_token_kai.htm Shinsa Registration Forms: http://ncjsc.org/TokenkaiRegForm.pdf

http://www.nbthk.net/european_branch_english

Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel-Tampa International Airport Contact: Bill Green 113A King Street St Augustine, FL 32084 Phone: 904-808-0662 Office 904-347-3144 Cell For full details, please visit the Web site at: www.southeastshowsauctions.com/