Investigation Report
Generated on Feb 7, 2026
KURAWORKS JAPAN STORE – eBay Seller Review for Studio Ghibli Howl's Moving Castle 3D Wooden Puzzle Kit
https://www.ebay.ca/itm/305865396766Why we think so?
KURAWORKS JAPAN STORE appears to be a well-established eBay seller specializing in Japanese collectibles and merchandise, including the Studio Ghibli Howl's Moving Castle 3D Wooden Puzzle Kit. Their eBay feedback score is a high 99.7%, with over 471 units of this puzzle sold and a large product catalog. The product listed is consistent with official descriptions and images of the authentic ki-gu-mi Color Ver. puzzle. Pricing is somewhat above the official Japanese retail price, but the mark-up is typical for Japanese imports due to international shipping and fees. There are no verified public complaints or credible reports of this store selling fake or counterfeit items, although a general warning exists about sophisticated counterfeits from Japanese sellers on eBay. The return policy (60 days, seller-paid return shipping) and payment options (PayPal, credit cards, Google Pay) are strong buyer protections. For high-value or luxury items, outside authentication is still recommended, but overall, this listing and seller present as trustworthy and reliable for collectors. 🛡️
Risk Insights
High Seller Reputation 🛡️
- 99.7% positive feedback on eBay.
- Hundreds of sales for similar items.
- No verified scam or counterfeit accusations.
Official Product Match
- Images and descriptions align with official Studio Ghibli merchandise.
- Price is consistent with premium imports.
Strong Buyer Safety Net
- 60-day seller-paid returns.
- Multiple secure payment options supported.
Category Scores
Red Flags & Warnings
- There is a general risk of sophisticated counterfeits with Japanese sellers on eBay, especially for luxury goods, but no evidence specifically implicates this seller.
Detailed Checks & Insights
0-100 Scale
Seller Identity Verification
Score: 95
Seller Identity Verification
"Business appears consistent and professional, with comprehensive public identity."
Reason: The eBay store is clearly branded as 'KURAWORKS JAPAN STORE', with detailed product and store information. No hidden or mismatched details found.
Seller Reputation & Feedback Authenticity
Score: 96
Seller Reputation & Feedback Authenticity
"Nearly 700 feedback entries on current listings further back up the strong rating."
Reason: A 99.7% positive feedback rating over hundreds of transactions suggests authentic reviews and a sound customer service track record.
Product Authenticity and Description Consistency
Score: 92
Product Authenticity and Description Consistency
"Official product attributes and images provided, consistent with the original manufacturer."
Reason: Listing images, descriptions, and brand matches the official Studio Ghibli 'ki-gu-mi Color Ver.' puzzle kit; no mismatches or vague claims.
Pricing and Inventory Review
Score: 90
Pricing and Inventory Review
"Official store price comparison (17,600 JPY/~$120 USD) vs. eBay price ($159 CAD plus shipping) is within a plausible range for an official import."
Reason: Price is above Japanese retail, but aligns with import mark-ups seen at other international sellers. High inventory and sales volume reduce likelihood of one-off scams.
Counterfeit or Manipulation Risk
Score: 88
Counterfeit or Manipulation Risk
"General caveat about Japanese sellers and luxury items is noted, but does not directly apply to this low-risk, branded puzzle item."
Reason: No flagged reports or accusations found for this seller. Some risks always exist for high demand goods, but no concrete evidence of manipulation.
Fulfillment, Return Policy, and Payments
Score: 95
Fulfillment, Return Policy, and Payments
"This high degree of post-purchase buyer protection is above average for eBay marketplace sellers."
Reason: Listing offers tracked international delivery, established payment options, and a generous 60-day seller-covered return window.
Your Next Steps
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1
If this is a high-value gift or collectible, consider third-party authentication on arrival.
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2
Document the unboxing and retain all purchase records for buyer protection.
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3
If in doubt or if item received seems inconsistent, use eBay’s buyer protection and 60-day return policy promptly.
Key Evidence & Citations
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Studio Ghibli Howl's Moving Castle 3D Wooden Puzzle Kit ki-gu-mi Color Ver. (eBay Listing)
⤷ All listing metadata indicates a new, genuine product with strong seller reputation. 471 sold and 6856 in stock is a healthy volume.
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eBay Seller Profile – KURAWORKS JAPAN STORE
⤷ Store specializes in anime, collectibles, and Japanese niche items; numerous listings, solid history.
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Studio Ghibli Howl's Moving Castle 3D Puzzle – Official and Unofficial Sources and Price Comparisons
⤷ Official Japanese retail price is lower, but international sales see mark-ups. No counterfeit alerts on this specific item or seller.
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