Solutions case-study

SAMURAI SWORD EXPORT

Exporting an authentic sword is not super complicated, but you are not likely to find someone that can help you get it out of the country. If you try to take it out through the airport without the proper paperwork, customs agents are guaranteed to stop and question you. Worst-case scenario, your expensive souvenir will be confiscated or you will miss your flight.

It’s better to go through the paperwork process but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

First, it is helpful to understand that the reason you get stopped is not because it is illegal to bring a sword into the United States, but because some of the swords are designated as cultural artifacts. The term cultural artifact is used very liberally and it is quite meaningless and so we only need to remove that designation through the proper channels.

In order for this to work, you must have the license documentations for the sword. If you’ve got the license, then we are in business and can start the process.
The paperwork must be sent to the Agency for Cultural Affairs in Tokyo and will take at least 2 weeks to complete the screening procedure.

NOTE: I have only done this process for export to the United States and cannot speak to the process for other countries. I would be happy to look into it and see what can be done for other countries.

Samurai sword export

Step 01

Make a copy of the license documenting the authenticity of the sword.

Step 02

Take apart the sword and photograph the components, making sure that the maker’s signature is clearly visible and matches the documentation.

Step 03

Create document with proper specifications.
Send this to Agency for Cultural Affairs for screening along with the photos of the license and sword parts.

Step 04

After screening procedure, you will get a document that de-designates the sword as a cultural artifact and thus eligible for export.
The license must be sent back to the agency that created it.

Last Step

Show it off

If you are interested in getting a sword exported out of Japan, and would like some help please feel free to contact me.