1808 Customs' confirmation requirement concerning import restrictions in accordance with the Firearms and Swords Possession Control Law (FAQ) : Japan Customs

In Japan, possession, etc. of firearms and swords are restricted by the Firearms and Swords Possession Control Law.

For importing those goods subject to the Law, it is necessary to submit the:
1.	“Permit for the possession of firearms and swords” issued by the Prefectural Public Safety Commission, when the goods are general firearms, parts of pistols, hunter’s rifles or guns for competitive sports.
2.	“Permit for the possession of swords” issued by the Prefectural Public Safety Commission, when the goods are general swords, etc.
3.	“Certificate of registration of firearms and swords” or “Certificate of qualified firearms and swords for registration” issued by the Prefectural Public Safety Commission, when the goods are traditional firearms such as matchlocks or swords, etc. having artistic value.

In addition, importation of firearms or swords shall be permitted only when importers obtain the import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry in accordance with the Import Trade Control Ordinance.

(Article 70 of the Customs Law, item 1, section 3, paragraph 70 of the General Notification of the Customs Law, paragraphs 4, 5 and 6 of Article 3, Article 4, Article 14 of the Firearms and Swords Possession Control Law, and Articles 4 of the Import Trade Control Ordinance)

[Inquiries]

The nearest prefectural public safety commission
The nearest prefectural board of education
Fine Art Division, Cultural Properties Department, Agency for Cultural Affairs (Tel: +81-3-5253-4111)
Trade Control Policy Division, Trade Control Department, Trade and Economic Cooperation Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (Tel: +81-3-3501-1500)