Kokin Denju no Tachi, Japanese National Treasure sword at Eisei Bunko Museum, Bunkyo, Japan
The Kokin Denju no Tachi is a sword designated as a National Treasure and housed at the Eisei Bunko Museum in Bunkyo, representing the heritage of Japanese swordmaking. The blade displays the curved form typical of tachi swords, crafted with careful attention to balance and proportions.
This sword was made during the Kamakura period by the respected Bungo Yukihira school of swordsmiths, a time when craftsmen refined their techniques to new heights. The era established the classic features that define Japanese sword art to this day.
The name "Kokin Denju" references the classic poetry anthology Kokinshu and represents a tradition of passing down knowledge through direct teaching. This connection shows how swordmaking was linked to scholarly and artistic learning in old Japan.
You can view this sword at the Eisei Bunko Museum, which is open most days with consistent hours for visitors. It is best to check ahead before visiting to confirm current opening times and any seasonal closures.
The sword shows early features of tachi design that reveal how smelting and forging methods evolved during its era. Few visitors notice these subtle technical details that document the craftsmanship progress of the time.
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