The Nashiji Raden Kinzōshoku no Tsurugi: A Crystallization of Heian Period Beauty

The Nashiji Raden Kinzōshoku no Tsurugi (Kazari-tachi Style Sword Mounting with nashiji lacquer, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold ornaments) housed at Tokyo National Museum represents the pinnacle of 12th-century Japanese decorative arts. This ceremonial sword, measuring 103.3 cm in total length with a 20.8 cm hilt and 81.1 cm scabbard, embodies the elegant proportions favored during the Heian period. Unlike functional battlefield weapons, this kazari-tachi was designed exclusively for imperial court ceremonies, requiring special permission from the Emperor to wear.

The Miracle of Three Decorative Techniques

The sword's extraordinary beauty emerges from the unprecedented integration of three sophisticated decorative techniques. The nashiji lacquer creates a distinctive "pear skin" texture through multiple applications of gold flakes suspended in translucent lacquer layers, then burnished with charcoal to reveal a subtle, shimmering surface. The mother-of-pearl inlay (raden) depicts elegant long-tailed birds (onaga-dori) using paper-thin shell fragments from abalone and pearl oysters, demonstrating exceptional technical precision. The gold decorations feature intricate chrysanthemum patterns executed through high relief carving (takabori) and openwork techniques (sukashibori) on silver-plated base plates, then enhanced with gold plating.

Path to National Treasure Status

Designated as an Important Cultural Property in 1952 and elevated to National Treasure status on June 21, 1962 (designation number 00234-00), this sword represents an exceptionally rare example of Heian period court culture. Traditionally belonging to Fujiwara no Madate and passing through generations of the prestigious Hirohashi family, the sword's remarkable preservation of organic materials after nine centuries testifies to both the exceptional craftsmanship and centuries of careful stewardship.

Viewing at Tokyo National Museum

Currently, this National Treasure is not on public display and appears only during special exhibitions. It was last shown during the Tokyo National Museum's 150th Anniversary exhibition "National Treasures: All of Tokyo National Museum" in 2022, with no scheduled future exhibitions announced. However, the museum houses 19 National Treasure swords in total—the largest such collection in Japan—with other exceptional pieces regularly displayed in the Japanese Gallery.

The museum is located at 13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo, easily accessible from JR Ueno Station (10-minute walk from Park Exit) or Keisei-Ueno Station (15-minute walk). Operating hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (extended to 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays), with general admission at ¥1,000 for adults.

Cultural Exploration in the Ueno Area

Ueno Park surrounding Tokyo National Museum offers one of Tokyo's richest cultural districts. Within walking distance, visitors can explore the National Museum of Nature and Science, Ueno Zoo (famous for its giant pandas), the scenic Shinobazu Pond, and the historic Ueno Toshogu Shrine. The area becomes particularly spectacular during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) when 1,200 cherry trees create one of Tokyo's most celebrated hanami spots. The nearby Ameyoko market provides excellent shopping and street food, while restaurants range from traditional establishments to contemporary Michelin-starred venues.

Optimal Visiting Strategies

For the best museum experience, arrive at opening time (9:30 AM) on weekdays to avoid crowds. Online ticket purchase eliminates queue waiting, particularly valuable during peak tourist seasons. While the Nashiji Raden sword remains in storage, the museum's extensive collection offers numerous opportunities to appreciate Japanese sword culture and decorative arts. Photography without flash is generally permitted for regular exhibitions, though National Treasures may have restrictions. Audio guides in English, Mandarin, and Korean are available for ¥620.