| Hotel Info/ Reservations | Shinsa Info/ Reservations | Event Schedule | Vendor Table Info/ Reservations | Contact Info and Questions |
General Information
We are pleased to announce a major international Japanese cultural event scheduled to take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota on October 7, 8, 9, 2011 at the recently renovated Hilton Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport Mall of America Hotel, conveniently located near the Minneapolis international airport and the Mall of America.The event, sponsored by the Midwest Token Kenkyu Kai in cooperation with the non-profit Nihon Token Hozon Kai (Japan's oldest sword appraisal association), will promote the arts and arms of the samurai, featuring displays of traditional, antique Japanese samurai swords, traditional Japanese pottery, calligraphy, kimono, and other related items. In addition to the displays there will be several informative lectures and seminars by recognized experts on a variety of topics, as well as demonstrations of various traditional arts and crafts by master craftsman brought from Japan. There will be vendors offering Japanese swords, armor, calligraphy, pottery, and other traditional Japanese art and antiques. Finally, there will be a team of Japanese sword experts from Japan conducting sword appraisals (shinsa) all three days.
For further information on the content and scheduling please see the on-line schedule here.
Special Event - Shinsa (sword appraisal)
The NTHK-NPO, the oldest sword appraisal association in Japan, will be
bringing their appraisal team from Japan. Space is limited, and
reservations will be required. $100 per item non-refundable deposit is
due at time of reservation; if the item passes, an additional $175 will
be charged at the show. Additionally, a service will be offered to
submit blades and fitting for those unable to attend the event in
person. Shinsa will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with
Thursday reserved for sent-in items. Please contact Chris Bowen for further information and shinsa reservations.
Sales Room
There will be a
7000 sq foot sales room where international vendors will be selling
swords, Japanese antiques, calligraphy, books, and like items. Sales
Tables are 8 foot. Table rates are $175 per table with 2 passes;
additional tables are available at $150/table. Dealers are asked to
exhibit primarily (80%) Japanese Swords and related items. No modern
firearms. Please contact Larry Klahn for further information and table reservations
Admission
Media Attention
This event will be advertised in
Japan. It will also be heavily promoted in the Japanese communities in
major US cities and in the regional newsletters and press of clubs and
societies sharing common interests. The event will advertised in local
media outlets where it is hoped that it will generate considerable
interest.
For further information on the shinsa, vendor table rental, or other general questions, please contact the Midwest Token Kenkyu Kai through either of the following individuals:
Larry KlahnChris Bowen
PO Box 99
Mt. Hope, WI 53816
608-994-2538
swords@ejapaneseswords.com