Located approximately 90 minutes by train from Tokyo, Ashikaga City in Tochigi Prefecture is steeped in history as the birthplace of the Ashikaga clan, who ruled Japan during the Muromachi period (1336-1573). This city is not only significant for its historical roots but also as the home of the illustrious swordsmith Horikawa Kunihiro.
In celebration of Ashikaga City’s centennial, the Ashikaga Museum of Art is proudly displaying one of Kunihiro’s renowned creations: the Yamanbagiri Kunihiro. This sword has gained fame through its feature in the popular video game series Touken Ranbu. To mark this occasion, a range of Yamanbagiri Kunihiro-themed merchandise is available, including a unique miniature dessert knife modeled after the legendary sword.
This distinctive knife can be purchased on its own or as part of a set that includes a matcha pound cake and a special cloth, priced at 4,600 yen. The matcha pound cake, produced by Kijido – a brand under Ashikaga City-based Asahi Senshoku – utilizes locally-sourced ingredients from Tochigi. It is baked in a traditional gas-fired cauldron and enriched with five types of nuts.
The dessert knife, a scaled-down version of the Yamanbagiri Kunihiro, is meticulously crafted, featuring the same inscription as the original sword by Horikawa Kunihiro. Although it measures just 138 millimeters compared to the original’s 73 centimeters, it is an impressive replica. The knife is also available separately for 1,500 yen.
The set is complemented by a commemorative furoshiki, a traditional wrapping cloth often used for bento boxes. This vibrant red cloth, printed with the sword’s image, is made of rayon and measures 500 by 500 millimeters.
Exclusive Handkerchief Designs
In addition, three sword-inspired handkerchief designs are available for purchase. The Tsubaki design features vermillion camellia flowers and various swords on a bright yellow background. The Tanto design offers a pop-art style with hands holding sword-making tools in soft yellow and blue on a cream background. Lastly, the Jinrestu design presents a chic pattern resembling black and white checks, composed of small swords along vertical black lines on a white background.
These handkerchiefs, crafted from 100 percent cotton and designed by Ashikaga Senshoku, are priced at 1,000 yen each. They, along with the dessert knife and matcha cake set – dubbed Uguisu to Niwa (“The Nightingale and the Garden”) – are available for purchase through Kijidou’s online shop.
The Yamanbagiri Kunihiro sword will be on display at the Ashikaga Museum of Art as part of the Ashikaga City 100-year Anniversary Special Exhibition “Sengoku Busho: The Valor and Beauty of Ashikaga Nagao -That Thread of Life into Perpetuity-” until March 27. Visitors to Ashikaga City can also enjoy its famous wisteria trees, another highlight of the city.
