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Can I bring a gun or a sword into Japan?

Pistols, their ammunition and pistol parts are prohibited from entry. Hunting guns, air guns and swords may not be brought in without a permit to possess, issued by a Prefectural Public Safety Commission; import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry is also required.

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With limitsAllowed into Japan
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Into Japan: limits applyChecked on arrival

A gun or sword at the Japanese border

This is decided when you land in Japan, by Japan Customs. Airport security at your departure airport is a separate check.

Pistols, their ammunition and pistol parts are prohibited from entry. Hunting guns, air guns and swords may not be brought in without a permit to possess, issued by a Prefectural Public Safety Commission; import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry is also required.

Prohibited outright
firearms (pistols, etc.), their ammunition and pistol parts
Need a permit to possess
hunting guns, air guns, swords
Also restricted by the same law
crossbows
Firearms
"Permission to Possess Firearms" issued by the Prefectural Public Safety Commission
Swords
"Permit for the Possession of Swords" issued by the Prefectural Public Safety Commission
Also required
import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry

The permits Japan requires

To import firearms or swords you must submit the permit to possess issued by the Prefectural Public Safety Commission to Customs, and obtain import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring a gun or a sword into Japan?

Pistols, their ammunition and pistol parts are prohibited from entry. Hunting guns, air guns and swords may not be brought in without a permit to possess, issued by a Prefectural Public Safety Commission; import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry is also required.

Can I bring a handgun?

No. Firearms such as pistols, their ammunition and pistol parts are on the list of articles prohibited from entry by law.

Can I bring a hunting gun or a sword I own?

Not without a permit to possess. The permit is issued by a Prefectural Public Safety Commission, and import approval from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry is also required.

Are crossbows covered?

Yes. Possession of firearms, crossbows and swords is restricted by the Firearms and Swords Possession Control Law.

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Compiled by Japan Japan !! · Updated October 2, 2026