Replicas of Godric Gryffindor's sword, as seen in the Harry Potter films, have been recalled in Japan for contravening the country's strict weapons laws. The full-sized replicas, measuring 86cm (34 inches) and attached to wooden display plaques, were sold by Warner Bros. Studio Japan LLC from May 2023 until late April of this year. The issue was only flagged by authorities in November when they deemed the swords sharp enough to qualify as real weapons.
More than 350 of these replicas, each priced at 30,000 yen (approximately $200; £158), were marketed at the newly opened Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo: The Making of Harry Potter. This attraction, which opened in 2023, is the first of its kind in Asia and claims to be the largest indoor Harry Potter exhibit globally.
In response to the situation, Warner Bros. Studios Japan LLC issued a recall notice on its website, citing "a distribution issue in Japan." They have urged individuals who purchased the sword to contact them for further assistance, including logistics and potential refunds.
Japan’s weapons regulations are notably strict; carrying knives longer than 6cm (2 inches) is prohibited, with offenders risking up to two years in prison. Replicas categorized as swords under the Firearms and Swords Control Law must also be registered, unless they are intended solely for training or decoration and are incapable of being sharpened.
While Japan enjoys low levels of violent crime, isolated incidents involving weapons do occur. For instance, a 78-year-old man was arrested last year in Yokohama for attacking a neighbor with a ceremonial samurai sword. Such cases highlight the importance of adhering to local laws regarding weapons, even for decorative items.
