Fans left heartbroken as Harry Potter sword replicas recalled in Japan
TOKYO: Replica Harry Potter sword replicas sold at a theme park in Japan have been recalled for being too authentic, potentially violating anti-weapons laws, Warner Bros Studios Japan and media have reported.
Subject to the recall is an “authentic recreation” of the Godric Gryffindor Sword – named after one of the four founders of the Hogwarts wizardry school. The pointed, silver sword is 85cm long and comes affixed to a wood display plaque, according to a company statement that said there had been a “distribution issue” with the 30,000 yen (RM885) replicas.
Japanese media reported that investigators considered the toy sharp-edged enough to constitute a possible violation of the country’s sword and firearms control laws. The replicas were being sold at the “The Making of Harry Potter”, an immersive Tokyo studio park steeped in the world of the epic magic saga.
“We apologise for the inconvenience,” Warner Bros Studios Japan said in its statement.
Violent crime is rare in Japan, which has strict gun control laws. But there are occasional stabbings and even shootings, including the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe in 2022.
“Harry Potter” fans who had to relinquish the sword took to social media to air their heartache. The farewell was “frustrating” and “very sad”, one fan wrote on social media platform X, adding: “My fellow true Gryffindor students out there who agreed to the voluntary recall, I feel you.”
“I just handed over to police the Gryffindor sword which I once vowed to myself I will cherish for the rest of my life,” another wrote on X. “I believe they will take good care of it until it is disposed of.”
FAQs
1. What was the reason behind the recall of the Harry Potter sword replicas in Japan?
The replicas were deemed too authentic and potentially violated anti-weapons laws, prompting the recall.
2. Where were the replicas being sold?
The replicas were being sold at “The Making of Harry Potter” theme park in Japan.
3. What was the design of the Godric Gryffindor Sword replica?
The replica was an 85cm long silver sword affixed to a wood display plaque.
4. What laws in Japan were potentially violated by the sharp-edged toy sword replicas?
Investigators considered the replicas to possibly violate the country’s sword and firearms control laws.
5. How did fans react to having to surrender their sword replicas?
Fans expressed disappointment and heartache on social media platforms, sharing their frustrations and sadness.
6. What is the overall crime rate in Japan?
Japan has a low violent crime rate due to its strict gun control laws, although there are occasional incidents.
7. What was the response from Warner Bros Studios Japan regarding the recall?
The studio issued an apology for the inconvenience caused by the recall of the sword replicas.
8. How did the fans describe their feelings about surrendering the replicas?
Fans described the experience as frustrating and sad, expressing a sense of loss over giving up their cherished items.
9. What is the significance of the Godric Gryffindor Sword in the Harry Potter series?
The sword is named after one of the Hogwarts founders and holds symbolic importance in the magical world of Harry Potter.
10. How did the recall affect visitors to “The Making of Harry Potter” theme park in Tokyo?
The recall likely impacted the experience of visitors who were expecting to purchase and keep the sword replicas as souvenirs of their visit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recall of the Harry Potter sword replicas in Japan has left fans saddened and disappointed, as they had to part ways with their cherished memorabilia. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to strict weapon laws, even in the realm of fantasy and entertainment.