Kitsunegasaki, Ancient tachi sword in Iwakuni, Japan
Kitsunegasaki is a curved sword housed in the Kikkawa Historical Museum and part of the collection representing Iwakuni's heritage. The piece displays traditional craftsmanship and has been carefully preserved to show visitors what weapons from that era looked like.
The sword was crafted by a master smith in the early 1200s during a transformative period in Japan. It survived the centuries and eventually came into the Kikkawa family's care, where it has been protected ever since.
The sword's name comes from its place of origin, connecting it to the region's local history and heritage. Visitors can see how such weapons held meaning in the lives of those who lived in Iwakuni.
The sword can be viewed during the museum's regular hours alongside other regional objects on display. Visitors should be aware that historic items are shown behind protective glass and should be viewed with respect for their fragility.
The sword is one of the few completely preserved examples with its original mounting and fittings from the time it was made. This complete condition is rare and offers visitors a chance to see a weapon as it was actually used.
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