[shadagirl]

The official response I received from customs in Japan:

*****Thank you for your e-mail.

According to the Firearms and Sword Control Law, handled by the Japan Police Authority, any kind of sword such as following conditions is strictly controlled;

More than 15 cm length of blade

Steel material made

Sword-looking, consisting of blade of sword, hilt, and sword guard

Whether the sword is restricted by above law, police can judge

If it is subject to the above law, you are required to obtain "Certificate of Registration" or "Permission of Possession".

Certificate of Registration is issued by the Prefectural Board of Education if the sword is regarded as objects of virtu.

Even though these are not real sword, Shinken, they aren't allowed bringing them into Japan.

If the Certificate of Registration can not be issued, you need to obtain permission of possession issued by the local Public Safety Commission. However, I hear that this permission can be issued for use of only very specific purposes like use for religious festivals etc.

Please be advised that the sword has to be kept under custody by the airport police until you can obtain above registration or permission.

If it is not restricted sword, its import is permissive.*****


I think we will either ebay some to be shipped to a family member there or try to buy them while in Japan. Ack!!

Surreyya