#Japan #Kyoto #Touken Ranbu #Niconico Museum #Sword Culture

Niconico Museum Launches Project to Preserve Japanese Sword Culture

In an exciting development for fans of Japanese culture, particularly those engaged with the popular mobile game "Touken Ranbu," Niconico Inc. has announced a collaboration with the Sword Culture Preservation Organization (Touken Kenbun Gakkai) to kick off a live streaming project aimed at preserving and researching the culture of traditional Japanese swords. This initiative comes as part of the Niconico Museum's ongoing efforts to shed light on Japan's rich cultural heritage through innovative online formats.

Scheduled to commence in early 2026, the project consists of a series of live broadcasts that will showcase significant exhibitions, including the much-anticipated special exhibition titled "Connecting Swords: Viewing National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties" at the Kyoto National Museum. The first episode will air on February 4, 2026, at 7 PM JST and will feature a live tour conducted by seasoned curators and experts. Viewers will get an insider's look at the exhibition, including highlights and discussions surrounding the artistic and cultural importance of Japanese swords.

Promoting Knowledge and Appreciation of Japanese Swords

The Sword Culture Preservation Organization was established to support the preservation, research, and promotion of sword culture in Japan, particularly for those working in museums unable to secure substantial research funding. The organization's activities are funded in part by donations generated through the "Honmaru Sword Preservation Society," a subscription service linked to the game "Touken Ranbu ONLINE," which allows fans to donate a portion of their subscription fees to this noble cause.

The partnership with Niconico Museum aims to bridge gaps for those who may not have the opportunity to attend these exhibitions in person due to geographic or financial constraints. By leveraging live streaming technology, the organization hopes to increase public engagement and appreciation for the art, history, and craftsmanship of Japanese swords, which have historically been revered as symbols of national pride.

During the inaugural program, leading figures in the preservation of sword culture will participate, including Toshihiko Suekane, a chief researcher at the Kyoto National Museum, Takaki Kosaka, president of Nitroplus, and Mari Hashimoto, executive director of the Sword Culture Preservation Organization. This esteemed panel will explore the intricate beauty and cultural significance of swords, providing valuable insights into their heritage.

Niconico Museum: A Gateway to Art and Culture

The Niconico Museum, a well-known online platform launched in 2012, has successfully brought over 200 exhibitions to viewers around the world. Through engaging discussions, expert lectures, and interactive formats, audiences can delve deeply into historical artifacts and cultural exhibitions without leaving their homes. Participants can engage with real-time comments and polls, fostering a unique community experience as they collectively delve into the complexities of Japan's artistic legacy.

The live streaming events will be free of charge, providing wider access for those interested in experiencing Japan's cultural treasures. While viewers can enjoy the broadcasts without a Niconico account, creating one will unlock additional features such as the comment function, enhancing real-time interaction.

Upcoming Exhibition Details

For those eager to witness the beauty of Japanese swords firsthand, details for the upcoming exhibition include:

• - Exhibition Title: Connecting Swords: Viewing National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties
• - Dates: February 4, 2026 - March 22, 2026
• - Venue: Kyoto National Museum, Heisei Chishin-kan, 1F-4/5
• - Official Website: Kyoto National Museum

This groundbreaking project embodies the spirit of collaboration between cultural organizations and the gaming community, demonstrating how interactive platforms can play a vital role in preserving and promoting tangible aspects of heritage that resonate across generations and cultures. As Japan continues to celebrate its rich history through events like this, the Niconico Museum and the Sword Culture Preservation Organization stand at the forefront, ensuring that future generations will appreciate the elegance of traditional Japanese swords.