Koryū Kagemitsu, National Treasure tachi at Tokyo National Museum, Japan
Koryū Kagemitsu is a 14th-century sword displayed at the Tokyo National Museum in Taitō, Japan. The blade measures about 29 inches (74 centimeters) and shows wave patterns created by folding and hardening steel.
Kagemitsu made this sword in 1322 in Bizen province, where the Osafune school was known for its forging tradition. The Japanese government recognized it as a National Treasure in 1949.
This tachi represents the high standards of Japanese sword making, demonstrating the technical skills of medieval craftsmen through its grain patterns.
The museum displays the sword in the National Treasures gallery, where visitors can view it inside a glass case. Information panels explain the forging techniques and historical background in Japanese and English.
A small dragon carving near the hilt gave the sword its name. This decoration sets it apart from other works by the same smith.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
