Delivery time is approximately 5 to 14 days.

To legally ship an authentic Japanese sword from Japan to another country, we will have to apply for its export permit to the Agency for Cultural Affairs (Bunkacho).

We also must return the original registration paper to the Board of Education. It usually takes around 2 to 4 weeks to receive this permit once the required documents have been submitted. This makes a total lead time of approximately 1 to 1.5 months for your order to arrive at the address you provide after placing your order.

Please note that shipping from Tokyo, Japan may cause delays depending on the destination country.

We ship authentic Japanese swords to the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, Hong Kong and Australia.

If you do not live in these countries and would like to order, please contact us before purchasing.

We normally ship by EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post.

You can pay by credit card or bank transfer. If you wish to pay by bank transfer, please contact us in advance.

No returns will be accepted other than correction of errors.
We will only accept returns/exchanges if you receive:
- products with manufacturing defects.
- incorrect products.
Please inform us within 72 hours of your order arriving at your delivery address.

Determining the authenticity of a Japanese sword requires a combination of knowledge, observation, and sometimes expert opinion. If you're wondering whether your Japanese sword is authentic, consider the following guidelines:

1. Certificate: Authentic Japanese swords are typically accompanied by certificates guaranteeing their legitimacy. Organizations like the NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai) and the NTHK (Nihon Token Hozon Kai) are respected entities that issue certificates for genuine Japanese swords. Possessing a certificate from either of these organizations is a strong indicator of the sword's authenticity.
   
   
2. Craftsmanship: Genuine Japanese swords exhibit meticulous craftsmanship. Examine the blade for fine, consistent grain patterns, known as "hada." The temper line, or "hamon," should be distinct and superbly executed.
   
   
3. Signature: Many authentic swords bear the signature of the smith, known as "mei," engraved on the tang (the part of the blade that extends into the handle). Validating this signature can provide insight into the sword's origins and creator.
   
   
4. Materials: Traditional Japanese swords are crafted from specialized types of steel, primarily "tamahagane." The blade should have a balanced, substantial feel, without appearing overly light or fragile.

Age indicators: Observable wear patterns, oxidation, and patina can provide clues about the sword's age. While age isn't the sole determinant of authenticity, older authentic blades often possess specific aging characteristics that many replicas cannot accurately mimic.

Consult experts: When in doubt, it's best to consult a specialist or expert in Japanese swords. Their expertise and in-depth knowledge can provide valuable insights, helping to confirm the authenticity of your sword.

Beware of red flags: Swords accompanied by exaggerated claims, unusually low prices, or lacking any indication of age may be replicas. Also, be cautious of blades that are overly shiny or engraved rather than exhibiting traditional manufacturing hamon.

Yes, you can buy an authentic Japanese sword in Japan. The country is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of sword making, and many reputable merchants and artisans offer genuine swords for sale. However, there are important regulations to note:

Documentation: Every authentic Japanese sword comes with registration papers from the Japanese government, guaranteeing its authenticity. When making a purchase, ensure you receive these documents as they certify the legitimacy and historical relevance of the sword.

Exportation: If you plan to take the sword out of Japan, you will need to adhere to specific procedures. Additionally, familiarize yourself with or undergo inspection to ensure you are not exporting national treasures.

Laws and regulations: Some countries have strict regulations or bans on importing weapons, including swords. Always check your home country's rules regarding the import of swords before making a purchase.

Reputation: When purchasing, always choose a reputable dealer or smith to ensure the authenticity of the sword. Many renowned artisans and stores in Japan specialize in authentic traditional Japanese swords.

In summary, while you can indeed purchase an authentic Japanese sword in Japan, it is crucial to be aware of the current regulations and deal with reliable sources to guarantee the authenticity of your purchase. This is legal in most countries. However, you can ask the local authorities for more details.