Buying broken swords in Japan

[LucyD]

My husband and I are going to Japan for a few weeks the end of this month. I know it’s a process to buy a sword in Japan and get it exported. Is there anyplace that sells old broken swords in Japan? We I’ll be in both Kyoto and Tokyo. My husband is wanting to kind of make a display of broken swords.

[Brian]

In antique shops you'll find a few koshirae with blades that have been cut off....usually missing the front 2/3.
Check any koshirae you see. I think many found unregistered swords are cut so that they can be sold without problems, mainly for the koshirae. It's sad, but saw more than I would like to.

[LucyD]

That is sad, I was expecting like old swords that have been found falling apart on someone’s farm or ones used by martial artist who accidentally broke or wore out more modern ones. 

[robinalexander]

8 hours ago, LucyD said:

I was expecting like old swords that have been found falling apart on someone’s farm or ones used by martial artist who accidentally broke or wore out more modern ones.

 

Lucy, apologies in advance for going off topic but I just couldn't help smiling when I read this this morning.

 

If you and your husband intend to have a stop over in OZ either to or from Japan, your are most welcome to peruse my collection....you have already described a couple of my 'treasures' LOL.

 

All the best.

Rob

[LucyD]

On 10/16/2025 at 10:25 PM, robinalexander said:

 

Lucy, apologies in advance for going off topic but I just couldn't help smiling when I read this this morning.

 

If you and your husband intend to have a stop over in OZ either to or from Japan, your are most welcome to peruse my collection....you have already described a couple of my 'treasures' LOL.

 

All the best.

Rob

Thank you so much for the incredibly kind offer. We sadly won’t be in the area we are on a direct flight from California.