Can I take bows, arrows and crossbows on a plane in Japan?

What the rule says

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

What that means in practice

Crossbows have needed a licence in Japan since 2022. Possessing one without a permit is an offence.

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

It can ignite, explode or leak at altitude. A fire in the cargo hold cannot be reached during the flight, which is why these are refused in both bags rather than just the cabin.

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.

Refused everywhere, and sometimes illegal to own

These are refused by every airline in the world. In Japan some of them are also an offence to carry once you land.

• Explosives, fireworks, fuel, compressed gas and corrosive chemicals are refused in both bags with no exception.
• Weapons need a Japanese permit obtained before you arrive, including air guns and realistic replicas.
• Stun guns, extendable batons and pepper spray are treated as weapons under Japanese law.
• A real Japanese sword needs registration and an export permit from the Agency for Cultural Affairs. The shop arranges this.

Related items

• Fireworks and party poppers
• Petrol and kerosene
• Guns and replica guns
• Swords and replica swords
• Stun guns and batons
• Ammunition