Harry Potter Sword Replicas Recalled in Japan for Weapons Law Violation
Warner Bros. Studio Japan LLC has initiated a recall of full-sized replicas of Godric Gryffindor’s sword from the Harry Potter film franchise due to violations of Japan’s strict weapons regulations. The replicas, measuring 86cm (34 inches) and mounted on wooden display plaques, were sold between May 2023 and late April 2024.
In November, Japanese authorities informed the company that the sword replicas were sharp enough to be classified as actual swords under local law. More than 350 of these collectible items were sold, each priced at 30,000 yen (approximately $200 or £158).
The swords were originally sold at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo: The Making of Harry Potter, which opened in 2023 and is touted as the first such studio tour in Asia and the largest indoor Harry Potter attraction worldwide. The company has since published a recall notice on its website, requesting buyers to contact them for “necessary action including logistics and refund”.
Japan’s weapons laws are particularly stringent. Carrying knives over 6cm (2 inches) is prohibited, with potential prison sentences of up to two years for violations. Sword replicas that can be classified as actual swords must be registered with authorities, with exceptions only made for training or decorative items that cannot be sharpened.
Despite Japan’s reputation for low violence levels, there have been occasional weapon-related incidents. In a notable case last year, a 78-year-old man was arrested in Yokohama for attacking his neighbor with a ceremonial samurai sword during a dispute. Another serious incident occurred in 2017, when a samurai sword was discovered among other knives at a Tokyo shrine following an attack that resulted in three fatalities.
The recall highlights the complexity of managing collectible replicas in a country with strict weapon control regulations. Fans and collectors who purchased the Godric Gryffindor sword replica are now required to return the item and will likely receive a refund.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo represents a significant investment in Harry Potter-themed entertainment in Asia, making this recall particularly noteworthy. The incident underscores the importance of carefully reviewing product specifications to ensure compliance with local laws, especially when dealing with replica weapons or potentially dangerous collectibles.
As of now, Warner Bros. has not provided additional public comment on the recall beyond the notice published on their website. Buyers of the sword replica are advised to follow the company’s instructions for return and potential compensation.
