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Can I bring a knife back from Japan?

Can I bring a knife back from Japan?

1. Introduction

Bringing a knife back from Japan can be a tricky proposition. While it is possible to bring a knife back from Japan, there are certain laws and regulations that must be followed in order to do so legally and safely. In this article, we will provide an overview of Japanese knife laws and regulations, what types of knives are banned in Japan, how to bring a knife back from Japan, tips for bringing a knife back from Japan, what to do if your knife is confiscated at customs, and whether it is possible to buy a knife in Japan and have it shipped home.

2. Japanese Knife Laws & Regulations

In general, the laws governing knives in Japan are very strict. All knives with blades longer than 5.5 cm (about 2 inches) are considered “dangerous objects” under the law and may not be carried or transported without permission from the police. Additionally, all knives with blades longer than 15 cm (about 6 inches) are strictly prohibited from being imported into the country or exported out of the country without special permission from the Ministry of Justice.

3. What Types of Knives are Banned in Japan?

In addition to the laws governing blade length, there are also restrictions on certain types of knives that may not be brought into or exported out of Japan. These include switchblades, butterfly knives (balisongs), gravity knives, throwing stars (shurikens), machetes, swords (katana), bayonets, brass knuckles, and any other type of weapon designed for use as an offensive weapon rather than as a tool or household item.

4. How to Bring a Knife Back from Japan

If you wish to bring a knife back from Japan legally and safely, you must first obtain permission from the police before transporting it outside of the country. To do this you will need to fill out an application form at your local police station detailing why you need to transport the knife outside of the country and providing proof that you have obtained any necessary permits for its export or importation into another country. Once approved by the police department your application will be forwarded on to the Ministry of Justice who will then review your application and make their decision regarding granting permission for export/importation of your knife accordingly.

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5. Tips for Bringing a Knife Back from Japan

When attempting to bring a knife back from Japan there are several tips that can help ensure that everything goes smoothly:

• Make sure you know all applicable laws concerning carrying/transporting dangerous objects such as knives before attempting to transport them outside of Japan;

• Obtain all necessary permits before attempting to transport your knife outside of the country;

• Pack your knife securely when transporting it;

• Be prepared for customs inspection when entering another country with your knife;

• Follow all rules regarding baggage allowance when flying with your knife; and

• Be aware that some countries may require additional permits for importing or exporting certain types of weapons such as swords or machetes even if they have been approved by Japanese authorities for transport abroad.

6. What To Do If Your Knife Is Confiscated at Customs

If your knife is confiscated at customs due to lack of proper documentation or failure to follow applicable rules/laws then you should contact both Japanese authorities as well as those in charge at customs where it was confiscated immediately in order to try and resolve any issues quickly so that you can get your property returned as soon as possible without further complications or delays.

7 Is It Possible To Buy A Knife In Japan And Have It Shipped Home?

Yes – it is possible to buy a knife in Japan and have it shipped home but only if all applicable laws/regulations concerning import/export are followed closely including obtaining necessary permits before shipment takes place as well as adhering strictly to all baggage allowances when flying with such items onboard an aircraft either domestically within Japan or internationally between countries/regions etc..

8 Conclusion


Bringing a knife back from Japan can be done but requires careful planning ahead so that all applicable laws/regulations concerning import/export are followed closely including obtaining necessary permits before shipment takes place as well as adhering strictly to all baggage allowances when flying with such items onboard an aircraft either domestically within Japan or internationally between countries/regions etc.. By taking these steps one can ensure that their experience bringing their prized possession home is safe & successful!

9 Resources


https://www1-japan-insiders-com-au-legal-knife-laws-in-japan https://www1-japan-insiders-com-au-travel-tips-bringing-a-knife-back

Can you bring Japanese knife on a plane?

Cant. However knives can be placed in checked baggage. Bringing sharp objects on board is a criminal offense and punishable by law with a fine of up to ¥.

Can you bring a knife in a checked bag internationally?

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Items to check: Yes except butter knives with plastic or round blades. Sharp objects in checked baggage must be covered or properly packed to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.

What is the Japanese law on knives?

Carrying firearms such as knives. It is governed by the Swords and Firearms Control Act. It is illegal to carry knives longer than 6 cm without reason. Those who violate this law risk being punished with hard labor for up to several years or a fine of up to 1 million yen.

Can you import knives into us?

a) Common knives and special knives. Importation of edged knives for beneficial purposes first defined in §12.95(c) is permitted without restriction provided that the imported knives are not knives as defined in §(a)(a).

What happens if TSA finds a knife?

If an unwary person is caught smuggling during transit he usually has four options other than surrender: Put in checked baggage Give to relatives and friends who see you Take him back by car or send him home.

Can you bring a knife through customs?

Airlines ultimately determine what travelers can have on their travels. You may travel with a knife or knives in the hold if properly packed in locked luggage. Check with the airline you plan to travel with to find out if this is possible.

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