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Unveiling the Splendor of Swords at the Meiji Jingu Museum

The Meiji Jingu Museum is set to host an intriguing exhibition titled "Swords of Meiji Jingu" from December 20, 2025, to March 8, 2026. This exhibition will serve as a grand showcase of exceptional sword artworks that have been dedicated to the Meiji Jingu shrine throughout its storied history.

For centuries, the act of dedicating swords as offerings has played a crucial role in expressing prayers and gratitude to the deities in Japan. Historical records indicate that this sacred tradition began during the reign of Emperor Suinin, the 11th emperor of Japan, as documented in the "Nihon Shoki". Notably, the practice of sword dedicating at Meiji Jingu flourished during the reconstruction of the shrine's main building in 1958, continuing to this day, reflecting the ardent hopes of various swordsmiths across generations.

In a notable recent event, in 2022, a special sword forging ceremony was held in honor of the 110th anniversary of Emperor Meiji's passing. This event enriched the collection of swords dedicated to the shrine, further strengthening the bond between the art of sword-making and the spiritual reverence of Meiji Jingu.

The upcoming exhibition offers an opportune moment for visitors to not only view the physical forms of these swords but to feel the gratitude and prayers manifested over the years. From ancient times and through the rise of modern craftsmanship, these swords symbolize the unbroken links between our heritage and spiritual beliefs.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Title: Swords of Meiji Jingu
• - Dates: December 20, 2025 - March 8, 2026
• - Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM)

Note: Extended hours will apply during the New Year’s visit season. For more details, consult the official Meiji Jingu website.

• - Closed: Every Thursday (The museum will be open on January 1st)
• - Organizer: Meiji Jingu
• - Support: Meiji Jingu Shrine Association (Free entry for members)
• - Curator: Kazutoshi Harada (Director of Fukuyama Museum of Art, Honorary Professor at Tokyo University of the Arts)
• - Location: Meiji Jingu Museum
• - Admission Fees: General: ¥1,000 / Students (High school and younger), Groups (20 or more): ¥900

Note: Free entry for individuals with disabilities and accompanying caregivers, and children under elementary school age with a guardian.

Related Events

Alongside the exhibition, a public lecture will be held featuring the curator, Professor Kazutoshi Harada.

• - Date: February 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM (Doors open at 1:30 PM)
• - Location: Meiji Jingu Assembly Hall
• - Lecture Topic: "Emperor Meiji and the Swords of Meiji Jingu"
• - Speaker: Professor Kazutoshi Harada
• - Fee: ¥1,000

Pre-registration required. On this day, the museum will be closed; participants will receive a ticket for future admission to the exhibition.

Museum Overview

The Meiji Jingu Museum, founded in October 2019 as part of the centenary celebration of the shrine’s establishment, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts related to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, the museum not only displays these precious items but also offers insights into the history and daily life surrounding Meiji Jingu.

Visiting Information

• - Facility Name: Meiji Jingu Museum
• - Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM)
• - Closed: Every Thursday (Open on public holidays)
• - Location: 1-1 Yoyogi Kamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Access: A 5-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station Omotesando Exit and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Fukutoshin Line Meiji Jingu Mae (Harajuku) Station Exit 2
• - Phone: 03-3379-5875
• - Website: Meiji Jingu Museum
• - Official X: Meiji Jingu Museum Official X

With a remarkable blend of tradition and modern artistry, the "Swords of Meiji Jingu" exhibition is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history.