What Is the Torokusho? The 'ID' That Travels with a Japanese Sword
Last updated: 2026-07-06
Table of Contents
The torokusho (firearms and swords registration certificate) is indispensable for lawfully owning a Japanese sword. Yet its nature is surprisingly often misunderstood. Here we organize the basics of the certificate.
The Certificate Belongs to the Sword — It Is Not a Personal License
The most important point is that the registration certificate is attached to the sword as an object. It is not a license granted to the individual owner.
As a result, even when the owner changes, the certificate stays with the sword and travels with it. The new owner does not need to have the certificate reissued; they simply file a Notification of Change of Owner (see our ). It helps to think of it as one certificate per sword.
No Expiry, No Renewal
Permits to possess firearms (handguns, hunting guns, etc.) have a term of validity and require periodic renewal. However, sword registration has no term of validity and no renewal system. Once registered, the registration is permanent.
That said, if the certificate is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must report this to the issuing Board of Education and obtain a reissue (see our ).
Keep the Certificate with the Sword When Transferring, Entrusting, or Shipping It
When you transfer, lend, entrust for storage (such as sending it for polishing), or have a third party (such as a courier) transport the sword, the Firearms and Swords Control Law (Art. 18) requires that the registration certificate accompany the sword. The certificate also may not be transferred separately from the sword. There is no provision that directly mandates carrying the certificate when you personally carry the sword, but it is strongly recommended that you keep the certificate with you whenever you move the sword, so you can show at any time that it is lawfully registered. The certificate is also required when selling or transferring the sword.
FAQ
Is the registration certificate a personal license for the owner?
No. The certificate is attached to the sword as an object; it is not a personal license. When the owner changes, the certificate stays with the sword. The new owner does not have it reissued; they simply file a Notification of Change of Owner.
Does the certificate have a term of validity? Does it need renewal?
Sword registration has no term of validity and no renewal system; once registered, it is permanent. This differs from permits to possess firearms (handguns, hunting guns, etc.), which require renewal. However, if the certificate is lost, stolen, or destroyed, report it to the issuing Board of Education and obtain a reissue.
Do I need the certificate when carrying the sword?
When you transfer, lend, entrust for storage (e.g., sending it for polishing), or have a third party transport the sword, you are required to keep the registration certificate with it (Firearms and Swords Control Law, Art. 18). There is no provision directly mandating that you carry the certificate when personally carrying the sword, but it is strongly recommended so you can show it is lawfully registered. The certificate is also required when selling or transferring.
Is registration performed by the Agency for Cultural Affairs or the police?
Neither. Sword registration is carried out by the prefectural Board of Education. Eligible objects are Japanese swords with value as art objects. The Agency for Cultural Affairs is involved in evaluating cultural-property value and export examination, but the body that performs the registration itself is the prefectural Board of Education.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the relevant authorities or a qualified professional.
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