How It Works — From Order to Delivery

Buying a Japanese sword from Tokyo — step by step

Purchasing an authentic nihonto from Japan is not like buying something on Amazon. There is a legal export process involved. Here is exactly what happens after you place an order.

Step 1 — You place your order

Choose your sword, complete payment via credit card or bank transfer. You will receive an order confirmation immediately by email.

Step 2 — We apply for the export permit

All authentic Japanese swords are registered as cultural property in Japan. To legally export a sword, we must submit the blade's registration card (torokusho) to the Agency for Cultural Affairs and obtain an official export permit. This step is mandatory under Japanese law — no exceptions.

This takes 1 to 3 months. We cannot speed this up. The Japanese government processes applications at their own pace. This is the main reason delivery takes time.

Step 3 — We keep you updated

You will receive email updates during the waiting period. If you ever want a status update, just ask — we always reply within 24 hours.

Step 4 — Export permit approved, we ship

Once we receive the export permit, we carefully package your sword (professional double-boxing with protective padding) and ship it via EMS (Express Mail Service) or an alternative private carrier depending on your country.

You will receive a tracking number as soon as the package is dispatched.

Step 5 — You receive your sword

Delivery typically takes 5-10 business days after shipping. Your package will include:

  • Your sword (with koshirae/mountings if listed)
  • NBTHK certificate (if the sword has one)
  • Export permit documentation
  • A sword bag (for storage and transport)

Note: the torokusho (Japanese registration card) is submitted to the Agency for Cultural Affairs during the export process and remains in Japan. We provide a copy for your records.

Important notes

  • Total time from order to delivery: 6 to 14 weeks depending on the export permit processing time and your country.
  • US customers: Japan Post EMS is currently suspended to the US. We ship via private carrier, with a $200 shipping contribution required. Estimated delivery: 3-4 months.
  • UK customers: Please contact us before ordering due to specific import regulations.
  • Import duties and taxes are not included in the price and are your responsibility. Check with your local customs office.