Frequently Asked Questions
Legal & Import
Is it legal to own a Japanese sword in my country?
In most countries, yes. Authentic nihonto are classified as antiques, art objects, or cultural items — not weapons. This includes the US, Canada, most of Europe, and Australia. Some countries or states have specific conditions (e.g. UK, certain Australian states). If you're unsure, contact us with your country and we'll confirm before you buy.
Will customs seize my sword?
No — as long as the proper documentation is in order, and it always is. Every sword we ship comes with a Japanese government export permit issued by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. This document proves the sword has been legally cleared for export. We have shipped hundreds of swords internationally and have never had a seizure.
Will I have to pay import duties or taxes on top?
Most likely, yes. Import duties and VAT/sales tax depend on your country and are not included in the sword price. This is standard for any international purchase. In the US, antiques over 100 years old often enter duty-free. In the EU, expect VAT (19-20%). Your local customs authority collects these upon delivery.
What documents come with the sword?
Every sword ships with:
- The official Japanese export permit (Agency for Cultural Affairs)
- NBTHK certificate, if the sword has one (clearly stated in the listing)
- A copy of the torokusho (Japanese registration card) — the original stays in Japan as required by law
- A sword bag for storage and transport
Who handles the Japanese export permit — me or you?
We handle everything. You don't need to deal with any Japanese paperwork. We submit the application to the Agency for Cultural Affairs, wait for approval (1-3 months), and ship once the permit is granted. All you do is place the order and wait.
Payment
Is it safe to pay on your site?
Yes. Payments are processed through Shopify Payments (powered by Stripe), one of the most trusted payment platforms in the world. Your card details never touch our servers. The checkout is fully encrypted and PCI-compliant.
What payment methods do you accept?
Credit and debit cards only (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) — processed securely through Stripe. We also accept bank transfers for customers who prefer that route — contact us to arrange it.
What's your refund/return policy?
Due to the nature of our products (antique swords requiring government export permits), we cannot accept returns once the export process has begun. If there is an issue with your order — wrong item, damage during shipping, or a significant discrepancy with the listing — contact us and we will make it right. Full details on our return policy page.
Product
What condition should I expect for a centuries-old sword?
These are antiques, not factory products. A sword from the Muromachi period (1400s-1500s) is over 500 years old. You should expect signs of age: minor surface wear, old polishing marks, small scratches, and sometimes light patina. That said, every sword on our site is in displayable, collectible condition. We don't sell damaged or heavily corroded blades. Every listing includes detailed photos so you know exactly what you're getting.
What's included — blade only or full koshirae?
It depends on the sword, and it's always clearly stated in the listing. Most of our swords come with full koshirae (mountings: tsuba, saya, tsuka, etc.). Some come in shirasaya (plain storage mounting). A few include both. Check the listing photos and description — what you see is what you get.
Shipping
How long does delivery take?
6 to 14 weeks total. The export permit takes 1-3 months (this is the Japanese government — we can't speed it up). Once approved, shipping takes 5-10 business days. US orders take longer (3-4 months) because EMS is currently suspended and we use a private carrier.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is included for most countries. For the United States, a $200 shipping contribution is required due to the private carrier route. All shipments are fully insured for the declared value.
Do you ship worldwide?
We ship to most countries. We've delivered to the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Australia, Mexico, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and more. If your country isn't listed, ask us — we'll confirm.
About us
Who are you?
We're a team of three based in Tokyo, Japan. We source, inspect, photograph, and ship every sword ourselves. We have deep relationships with Japanese dealers, artisans, and polishers. More on our about page.
Can I visit your shop in Tokyo?
Contact us to arrange a visit. We're happy to show swords in person by appointment.
I have a question that's not listed here.
Contact us. We reply to every message within 24 hours.