Are your swords authentic Japanese blades?

Yes. We sell only authentic Japanese swords, each crafted from Japanese tamahagane steel using techniques handed down over centuries. We never sell mass-produced replicas.

Do your swords come with certification?

Where applicable, our swords are accompanied by official documentation verifying their authenticity, provenance, and historical value. Even for swords without papers, we carefully select only pieces we can confidently recommend based on our own expertise — each one holds genuine historical value.

Do you source your swords directly from Japan?

Yes. Every sword we handle is sourced within Japan, acquired through professional appraisal from trusted collectors, dealers, and markets — with no unnecessary middlemen between us and you.

Can you arrange an appraisal for an unpapered sword?

Yes. As full members of the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords (NBTHK), we can apply for an appraisal on your behalf upon request.

What is a shirasaya mount?

A shirasaya is a plain wooden handle and scabbard designed to protect and preserve the blade. It is used for storage and for appreciating the sword itself, rather than for handling or display in fittings.

How are your swords priced?

The price of a Japanese sword depends on several factors — its age and era, condition, length, the swordsmith, and whether it carries certification. Demand and a smith's popularity in the market also play a part. Each piece is assessed individually. If you'd like guidance on swords within a particular budget, please contact us and we'll be glad to help.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept PayPal and major credit cards through our online checkout.

Bank transfer is also available on request. If you'd prefer to pay by bank transfer, please contact us with your name, address, phone number, email, and your order details, and we will send you an invoice with our bank details separately.

Can I return a sword after purchase?

As a rule, we do not accept returns, since each sword is a unique piece that requires an export permit for international delivery. If an item was sent in error on our part, we will of course make it right. In rare, exceptional circumstances a return may be considered on a case-by-case basis, with conditions discussed individually. We warmly encourage you to ask us anything before you buy, so you can order with full confidence.

Can I order a custom-made sword from a modern swordsmith?

Yes. We arrange custom orders (chumon-uchi) with contemporary swordsmiths, and you can place an order directly from our Newly Forged Katana collection, where the options you choose affect the final price. Because each blade is made to order, production typically takes around one year, and both the price and timeline depend on the swordsmith and specifications.

To begin, we ask for a deposit of around 10% of the total. Once the sword is complete, you pay the remaining balance — in full or in installments — and we then start the export process. Please contact us with any questions; we're glad to guide you through it.

Can I ask about a specific sword before buying?

Absolutely. If you have questions about a particular blade — its condition, certification, koshirae, or shipping to your country — please contact us and our specialists will be glad to help.

Can you export a sword to my country?

We ship worldwide and have decades of experience with international sword delivery. That said, some countries restrict or prohibit importing swords, so we recommend checking your local regulations first. See our Shipping to the USA and Shipping to Europe pages, and feel free to contact us about your specific country.

After I buy a sword, how does it reach me?

Once your order is placed, we obtain the required export permit from Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs, then carefully package your sword and ship it with tracking and insurance. Because every sword needs an export permit, the full process takes a few weeks. For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our article The Anatomy of a Tozando Purchase.

How should I handle and care for my sword?

A Japanese sword needs careful handling to stay in good condition. We've put together detailed guides on drawing and sheathing, maintaining, and preserving your sword.

Can I visit your stores in Kyoto?

Yes. We have three stores in Kyoto where you can see our swords in person. Our Shogoin and Gion-Yasaka stores welcome walk-ins (closed only during Obon in mid-August and the New Year holidays), while Gallery Tozando is by appointment until March 2027. For locations, hours, and maps, see our Visit Our Kyoto Stores page.

I own an antique Japanese sword. Will you buy it from me?

We do purchase Japanese swords, but only those located within Japan. A sword held outside Japan does not carry a Japanese registration certificate (torokusho), so buying it would first require importing the sword into Japan and completing the official registration process — which is complex and time-consuming. If your sword is already in Japan with a valid registration certificate, please contact us with details and photos, and we'll be glad to discuss it.

How soon will you reply to my inquiry?

We usually reply within 3 business days. If you don't hear from us, please check your spam folder, as our reply may occasionally be filtered there.