TOKYO – Realistic replicas of the Godric Gryffindor Sword, a key artifact from the Harry Potter series, have been recalled in Japan after authorities deemed them potentially in violation of the country’s strict sword and firearms control laws.
The 85cm-long replicas, sold for 30,000 yen ($268) at The Making of Harry Potter studio park in Tokyo, were marketed as “authentic recreations” and came with a wooden display plaque. However, Japanese investigators found the sharp-edged swords realistic enough to raise legal concerns, leading to their removal from sale.
Warner Bros Studios Japan confirmed the recall, citing a “distribution issue,” and apologized for the inconvenience in a statement.
Fan Reactions
The recall has left many fans heartbroken, with some expressing their sadness on social media. One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “I just handed over the Gryffindor sword I vowed to cherish forever. I hope the police will take good care of it before disposal.” Another described the recall as “frustrating” and lamented losing a cherished piece of the wizarding world.
Context
Japan, known for its strict gun and sword control laws, rarely sees violent crime. However, incidents such as the 2022 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have kept authorities vigilant about weapon regulations.
The recall highlights the challenges of balancing fandom merchandise with real-world legal standards in a country with stringent safety laws.