Can I take hammers and carpentry tools on a plane in Japan?

What the rule says

Japan follows the international rules on dangerous goods, set out by the Civil Aviation Bureau.

Before you get to the checkpoint

• Airlines can be stricter than the national rule. If it matters to your trip, check your airline's own page.
• If an item is refused at the checkpoint you cannot go back and check it in — you lose it.
• Japanese security staff will ask before opening your bag, and most speak enough English for this.

Why the rule is what it is

In the cabin the question is whether it could be used against someone, so the blade length decides it. In the hold there is no such concern.

If it is refused

You cannot go back and check it in once you are at the screening point. It is taken from you and disposed of, and there is no compensation. Some Japanese airports have a post counter before security where you can mail it to yourself.

Who decides

The officer at the checkpoint, applying the national rules and your airline's own conditions. Where the airline is stricter, the airline wins.

6cm is the number to remember

Japanese security measures the blade, not the whole tool.

• Blades under 6cm are generally accepted in the cabin. Longer than that goes in the hold.
• Knives of any length are refused in the cabin, however short the blade.
• Once you land there is a second rule: carrying a blade over 6cm in public without a good reason is an offence under Japanese law.
• Buying a kitchen knife in Japan is fine. Have the shop wrap it, put it in your checked bag, and take it to your accommodation.

Related items

• Razors (safety and disposable)
• Electric shavers
• Scissors
• Nail clippers
• Knives (kitchen and pocket)
• Box cutters and utility knives