A special exhibition blends the history of Japanese swords with modern tech and Touken Ranbu, offering a lively experience to inspire future preservation.
A new exhibition at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) is set to captivate audiences with its unique approach to exploring Japanese swords. The special exhibition, Discovering Treasures from Japanese Sword and Future Exhibition with TOUKEN RANBU, integrates the online game Touken Ranbu. Visitors experience the popular and engaging history and artistry of Japanese swords.
The opening event began with a warm welcome from Miraikan Executive Director Yoichi Ito. Miraikan is a science museum offering interactive exhibits and discussions on current issues, technology, the environment, and space exploration. “Miraikan aims to be a platform where individuals can envision and create a future using advanced science and technology,” he said. He noted that the exhibition is a leading example of Japan’s path forward, blending traditional culture with modern digital innovations.
The exhibition covers the craftsmanship of Japanese swords and delves into their rich history and cultural significance. Visitors are invited to engage with interactive displays utilizing the latest scientific techniques and digital technologies. The result is a unique educational experience. Ito hoped that the exhibition would inspire everyone to think about what we want to pass on and preserve for future generations.
Enduring Allure of Japanese Swords
Following Ito’s speech, Dejitaro, the Art Producer of Touken Ranbu, graced the stage Okii Konnosuke, the online promotion leader, accompanied him. Dejitaro highlighted the enduring allure of Japanese swords. “When asked what a Japanese sword is, many might answer that it is a weapon,” he said. However, he emphasized that Japanese swords are not merely weapons but are deeply intertwined with Japanese spirituality and culture. “Their essence lies in the profound beauty that touches the hearts of Japanese people,” he explained.
Touken Ranbu, the popular online game, has played a significant role in reigniting interest in Japanese swords. Since its inception in 2015, the game has garnered 13 million users. Using Japanese swords as motifs, it has featured collaborations with various regions in Japan. “Touken Ranbu has become a part of Japanese sword history and contributes to connecting Japanese swords to the future,” Dejitaro stated. Along with its characters, known as Touken Danshi, Touken Ranbu symbolizes the Reiwa age’s way of preserving history and culture.
Masakazu Ito, the producer of Touken Ranbu ONLINE, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized the importance of making history accessible and engaging, especially for younger generations. “This exhibition allows visitors to see and touch various elements, offering a real-life experience. We invite everyone to learn about the history, technology, and culture of Japanese swords,” he said.
Interactive and Educational Displays
A particular highlight of the opening event was the presence of Funassyi. The energetic pear fairy character from Funabashi City is known for his deep enthusiasm for Japanese swords. Funassyi shared his journey of discovering the beauty of Japanese swords through a video on YouTube. He has now accumulated an impressive collection of approximately 70 swords. “There’s a kind of romance to Japanese swords. They have a history of about 1000 years. By preserving them, we connect them to the next generation,” Funassyi said, emphasizing the importance of cherishing and preserving these cultural artifacts.
Funassyi’s passion for Japanese swords resonated with the audience, as he encouraged everyone to explore the exhibition. “To Touken Ranbu fans, you’re in for a treat. There are various sword exhibitions, including those at museums and festivals. Please come and see them,” he urged. He also highlighted the exhibition’s accessibility to children and families.
The exhibition site is divided into five areas, each guided by Kyunosuke, a character from Touken Ranbu. Kyunosuke, one of the “Kuda-Gitsune” who guide the Touken danshi, loves Japanese swords and dreams of becoming a top sword scholar. Visitors will accompany him on his learning journey, enjoying and discovering more about Japanese swords.
At the entrance, visitors receive an original pamphlet to fill out as they go through the exhibit, enhancing their learning experience. The first zone features a video introduction by Kyunosuke, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
Hands-On Learning and Preservation
This room provides a comprehensive overview of Japanese swords, explaining their types and special characteristics. Interactive quizzes help visitors learn about the different eras, regions, swordsmiths, and production areas.
Here, visitors can experience the five steps in the sword-making process through staged presentations using sounds and images. This area also explores the chemical changes in the materials during sword production.
In the Japanese Sword Appreciation Dojo, visitors can handle replica swords and learn the names of the different parts. This room also demonstrates the care required for Japanese swords and allows visitors to observe swords from various angles. Research on Japanese swords, including testing methods, is also showcased.
Motion capture technology recreates the sword techniques of a master from the Tennen Rishin-Ryu Shieikan dojo. Visitors can practice these techniques and engage in a game that uses natural body movements to simulate sword fighting.
This project features an imagined rendering of Imanotsurugi, the guardian sword of Minamoto no Yoshitsune. It is displayed for the first time at this exhibition.
Reflections and Future Preservation
Prominent figures involved with Touken Ranbu share their thoughts on what should be passed on to future generations. Visitors can reflect on their experience and post about what they want to preserve for the future.
Running for the next three months, this exhibition promises to be a landmark event, merging traditional Japanese sword culture with modern technology and popular culture. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn about, appreciate, and preserve the rich history of Japanese swords.
As Executive Director Ito aptly put it, “Through this special exhibition, we hope to inspire everyone to think about what we want to pass on and preserve for the future.” This blend of past and future encapsulates the essence of the exhibition, inviting all to partake in this cultural journey.