WW2 Japanese sword identification.

[Unknown7687]

My great grandfather got a sword in the war and I wanted to find out if it was real or not and if more could be known on this sword. The sheath and handle are covered in leather. There is a star marking, and the sheath is made from the leather on the outside, than metal, and finally wood. If you can tell me something that would be awesome.

 

[Jens Schuetz]

Some pictures would be great.
What would be best to remove the handle and show pictures of the tang.
There should be blade smiths markings. If they aren't visible very well, rub some chalk into them.
Looking forward to seeing it :thumbup: