A Guide to Buying and Owning Japan's Legendary Swords

Have you ever considered buying a Japanese katana?

Once exclusively carried by samurai, today, katanas are appreciated as works of art by enthusiasts. A katana, as we know, was originally crafted for one purpose: to cut down adversaries. Thus, the atmosphere surrounding these sharp blades carries an undeniable tension.

In the era of the samurai, when taking a life was an extension of daily life, one could savor the concept of "functional beauty" in a way that is no longer possible today. While ownership of katanas is limited even among Japanese, the barrier to purchase surprisingly isn't high.

All you need is a registration certificate and a change of ownership form. The former typically comes free with your purchase, and the latter is a straightforward application sent to your prefectural office. Shops provide guidance during your purchase, so there's no need to worry if you're a first-timer.

However, caution is needed when transporting a katana. In Japan, possession is only allowed as an art object for admiration. Carrying one openly, or even unsheathing it in public, is a violation of the Firearms and Swords Control Law. When carrying, make sure it's securely packaged and always have your registration certificate with you.

Prices vary widely based on class, ranging from ¥100,000 to over ¥10,000,000. Consider your budget and then explore the options. Different factors like the era, school, preservation condition, rarity, and historical significance can influence the price. It's best to visit stores and consult with experts directly.

Here are some renowned stores in Tokyo and Osaka:

• Sokendo (Tokyo, Harajuku): Established for about 60 years, this traditional katana store is conveniently located a 5-minute walk from Harajuku Station. There's also a branch inside the Imperial Hotel.

  Address: 6-28-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Phone: 03-3499-8080 Closed on Thursdays Official Website

• Ko-bijutsu Token Yamashiroya (Tokyo, Sugamo): Located a 5-minute walk from Sugamo Station in Toshima Ward, this katana store deals not only in Japanese swords but also armor and other art objects.

  Address: 1-21-8 Sugamo, Toshima-ku, Tokyo Phone: 03-3942-2701 Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays Official Website

• Osaka Tokenkai Yoshii Bijutsu (Osaka, Nihonbashi): Situated just a 5-minute walk from Namba Station in Osaka, this katana store offers a wide range of swords, from Kamakura-era masterpieces to contemporary creations.

  Address: 2-7-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka Phone: 06-6631-2210 Closed on Wednesdays Official Website

Lastly, let's touch upon the process of taking a purchased Japanese katana out of the country. When carrying a katana abroad, an "export" procedure is required. Since some firearms and swords fall under the designation of national treasures or important cultural properties, you must obtain a "Certificate of Inspection for the Export of Works of Art" from the Agency for Cultural Affairs to prove your katana isn't subject to these designations.

Applications are only accepted by mail and take a minimum of 10 working days to process. It's recommended to apply at least one month in advance, so if you plan to buy one as a souvenir during your trip, be aware that you'll need a local collaborator to navigate this process.

If you're in the hospitality industry, offering assistance with this procedure could be greatly appreciated by your guests. Detailed information on the process is available on the Agency for Cultural Affairs' website.