The Japanese guitar industry is characterized by its diversity, ranging from iconic brands with decades of heritage to innovative newcomers pushing the boundaries of instrument design. Whether you’re a fan of classic electric guitars, acoustic masterpieces, or experimental models, Japan has something to offer every guitarist. This blog will showcase the top 7 Japanese guitar brands that embody this spirit of innovation and craftsmanship.
1. A Brief History Of Japanese Guitar Brands
The history of Japanese guitar manufacturing began with several innovative companies, one of the most notable being Torakusu Yamaha, the creator of Yamaha. Founded as Nippon Gakki Co Ltd, which translates to “Japanese musical instrument,” the company initially focused on making Western musical instruments, including guitars, harmonicas, pianos, and many more.
Hoshino Gakki Gen is another major figure in the evolution of Japanese guitar brands. After importing Spanish guitars for several years, the company began creating its own instruments in the 1930s, initially known as Ibanez Salvador, before eventually adopting the simpler name Ibanez.
During this time, Ibanez’s high-quality replicas of Fender, Gibson, and Rickenbacker guitars helped the brand surpass these companies in U.S. sales. Their expansion into the U.S. market was driven by distributor Harry Rosenbloom from Pennsylvania.
Ibanez’s surge in popularity prompted other brands such as Greco, Tokai, and Burni to manufacture guitars that closely mirrored Fender and Gibson models. Simultaneously, Suzuki and Takamine took design cues from Martin for their acoustic guitars.
The “lawsuit-era guitars” are replicas from that time, now coveted by collectors. These instruments usually don’t carry serial numbers and are typically associated with Hoshino Gakki’s manufacturing at the FujiGen Gakki plant.
This chapter in guitar manufacturing history led to the creation of brands like Squier and Epiphone, which offered “replica” instruments at a more accessible price. The influence of their work continues to resonate through the outstanding quality and distinctive design elements of current Japanese guitars.
2. Top 7 Japanese Guitar Brands
Before we explore the unique traits of the 7 best Japanese guitar brands, let’s first take a look at some basic details provided in the table below:
| Japanese guitar brands | Price range | Who should buy | Celebrities who have played |
| Yamaha | $150 – $2000+ | Those seeking affordable yet well-crafted electric, acoustic, and electric-acoustic guitars for their musical needs | Bob Marley, Bob Dylan James Taylor, Carlos Santana, Paul Simon, Liz Phair |
| Takamine | $200 – $3000+ | Those who enjoy playing acoustic guitars with excellent craftsmanship, sound, and playability designed for stage performances | Bruno Mars, Blake Shelton Garth Brooks, Hozier, Bruce Springsteen, Glenn Frey, Glen Hansard, Bon Jovi |
| Ibanez | $100 – $2500+ | Players across a wide spectrum who appreciate quality, speed, and versatility, especially in rock and metal genres | George Benson, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert |
| ESP Guitars | $200 – $3000+ | Those who want advanced, high-powered guitars designed for delivering intense sound in rock and metal genres | Tom Araya, Brian “Head” Welch, James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett, Stephen Carpenter |
| Fujigen Guitars (FGN Guitars) | $300 – $3000+ | Those looking for finely crafted instruments that offer great value for the price | |
| Fernandes Guitars | $100 – $2500+ | Guitarists and bassists are in search of excellent, budget-conscious reproductions of iconic guitars | Hammett of Metallica, The Edge of U2, Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, Robert Trujillo & Kirk , Heath and hide of X Japan, Steve Vai |
| Tokai Guitars | $300 – $3000+ | Those who enjoy the excellence of classic guitars but aim to avoid high costs | Devo, Stevie Ray Vaughan |
Note: The price range in the Japanese guitar brands list above can shift depending on factors like the model (high-end or custom guitars generally cost more than beginner models), sales promotions, retail platforms/ marketplaces, etc.
2.1. Yamaha
Yamaha stands out in the Japanese guitar market, producing top-tier acoustic and electric guitars along with reliable portable desktop amplifiers. The brand is famous for offering high-performance instruments at budget-friendly prices, making them ideal for players across all skill levels.
The GigMaker, an electric guitar targeted at beginners, stands out in the market as one of Yamaha’s most famous models. The Pacifica Series further cemented the brand’s international success by delivering a variety of distinct models, each with different specifications, but all maintaining the unique qualities that Yamaha guitars are famous for.
Yamaha has also built a strong legacy in Japanese acoustic guitar brands, with their FG Series being a standout example of traditional excellence. Offering a rich tone, a balanced sound profile, excellent sustain, and beautiful aesthetics, this series is beloved by musicians. Their innovation continued with the creation of the “Silent Guitar,” a breakthrough in portable guitar technology that lets guitarists practice quietly without disturbing others.
Pros:
- Great cost-to-benefit ratio
- Built with premium craftsmanship and materials
- A wide array of options to suit different playing abilities and budget constraints
Cons:
- Occasionally pushed into the background by more established brands
- Not many high-end models to choose from
2.2. Takamine
Takamine’s prominence in the world of acoustic guitar Japanese brands can be attributed to their high-quality acoustics, but it was their revolutionary under-saddle pickups that made a significant impact on the industry.
Takamine’s attention to detail is reflected in its selection of tonewoods, focusing on tonal richness rather than sheer power. With spruce and sapele tops, cedar, rosewood and maple sides, and mahogany, Takamine guitars provide the perfect sound for professionals like Jon Bon Jovi, Garth Brooks, Bruce Springsteen, and Blake Shelton.
Pros:
- Outstanding sound quality that excels in live performances
- Masterful craftsmanship
- A wide variety of guitars at different price levels
Cons:
- Mainly known for one of the best Japanese acoustic guitar brands, not electric
- Takamine’s Japanese-made models are primarily available in their luxury range
2.3. Ibanez
Ibanez guitars stand out due to their sleek, ergonomic design, providing a distinct yet comfortable playing experience. The brand’s versatility is evident in its range of models and across different genres, ensuring there’s an Ibanez guitar for every musician’s needs.
Ibanez guitars have earned a reputation as shredder instruments, praised for their incredible playability. The wide, flat neck profiles of these guitars make them perfect for players who need to execute fast, precise movements, making them perfect for rock, metal, and jazz enthusiasts.
If you’re after excellent value, Ibanez has guitars available in a variety of price ranges. Whether you need an affordable guitar for a beginner or a durable one for a professional, Ibanez offers both. The brand also teamed up with Sugi guitars, one of the most expensive guitar brands, to build their high-end models.
Ibanez also offers an impressive lineup of signature guitars for those who want to replicate the sound of their favorite performers. Each guitar is specially made to suit the individual playing techniques and preferences of the artists they are named after.
Pros:
- Suits various genres
- Comfortable design for long playing sessions
- Affordable options for beginners, pro-level guitars available
Cons:
- Some models may lack warmth, especially in budget range
- Modern designs may not appeal to those preferring classic tones
2.4. ESP Guitars
Made with the highest level of precision, ESP guitars feature aggressive, extreme designs that appeal to players in the rock and metal scenes. This Japanese brand is renowned for its high-performance instruments.
The Japanese production crew is made up of guitar-playing workers, which means that their products undergo testing by both artisans and musicians. Plus, ESP provides plenty of custom design options at an additional cost. If you’re looking for a specific look or decorative guitar, they are the ideal Japanese manufacturer.
Like Ibanez, this Japanese guitar brand has a reputation for crafting guitars specifically for hard rock and metal musicians. Their lineup includes daringly dark guitars, all featuring excellent sonic precision and a high degree of customizability. The brand became widely recognized after James Hetfield and Kirk Hammet of Metallica began endorsing their instruments.
Despite being designed for high-gain settings, such as with the TL-6 or MK EC-FR, these guitars are just as capable of creating lush chords and melodies. The ESP Original Series is arguably their most beloved collection, offering models that cater to various tonal preferences. Among them, the ESP Arrow is likely the most trendy of all.
Pros:
- Strong, contemporary design and smooth finishing touches
- Numerous models to pick from
- Highly regarded by musicians in the rock and metal scenes
Cons:
- These days, most models are crafted in the USA.
- Models from Japan are generally expensive
>>> See more: 17 Traditional Japanese Musical Instruments You Should Know
2.5. Fujigen Guitars (FGN Guitars)
Fujigen Gakki, also known as FGN guitars, is recognized as one of the leading Japanese guitar brands, offering a range of solid body, hollow body, acoustic, and bass guitars. While their guitars often resemble Fender’s, they offer outstanding performance at much lower price points.
The key difference between FujiGen and other Japanese guitar brands is their focus on every fine detail. Their guitars are almost flawless in design, feel, and sound, and they often come with one-of-a-kind features like a mix of dual and single-coil pickups.
Even though Fujigen guitars come at a lower price than the Fenders they are based on, they are far from being one of the cheap Japanese guitar brands. They offer superior quality and deluxe features, making them a wise investment for those seeking great value.
The Odyssey, Mythic, Iliad, Neo-Classic, and Flame are among the brand’s most beloved guitars, known for their eye-catching designs and robust, dynamic tones.
Pros:
- Superior build standards (OEM provider for other well-known guitar builders)
- Reasonably priced
- Numerous model choices
Cons:
- Rarely available as new in the United States
2.6. Fernandes Guitars
Fernandes Guitars began as a manufacturer of classical flamenco guitars but soon pivoted to focus on electric guitars, precision basses, amplifiers, and accessories. Their high-quality instruments earned them recognition, especially during the lawsuit era, solidifying their place in the market.
Surprisingly, this electric guitar Japan brand is most famous for its sustainer system, a guitar accessory rather than a guitar itself. This device, which uses electromagnetism to prolong string vibrations, is installed on the guitar. Steve Vai is one of the key artists known for using the sustainer system.
Pros:
- One of the best Japanese electric guitar brands
- A vast collection of electric guitars and basses to choose from
- Economical replica guitars
- Well-known artists have been seen playing these instruments
Cons:
- Not easy to find brand new in the USA
2.7. Tokai Guitars
If you’re after a high-quality Japanese guitar that mimics the design and sound of a classic American model without the steep cost, Tokai guitars are perfect for you. These instruments offer affordable versions of iconic US guitars and are crafted with remarkable attention to detail, making Tokai one of Japan’s top guitar brands.
Tokai offers a diverse range of acoustic and electric guitars, basses, and even autoharps. Among their most sought-after models are the Springy Sound (a replica of the Fender Stratocaster), the Love Rock (which mirrors the Gibson Les Paul), and the Talbo (an aluminum-body guitar). These instruments are made in Japan, China, and Korea, providing different levels of quality and pricing to accommodate various budgets.
Pros:
- One of the best Japanese classical guitar brands
- Exceptional replicas of classic guitars
- More economical compared to the original versions
- Top-notch feel and functionality
Cons:
- Those who are strict about brand authenticity may not appreciate it
3. Why Should You Buy From Japanese Guitar Brands?
When it comes to guitars, Japan has long been home to some of the best manufacturers in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, purchasing from these brands means investing in a high-quality, reliable guitar that will elevate your playing experience.
3.1. High-standard manufacturing and craftsmanship
The reputation of Japanese guitars is largely built on their remarkable craftsmanship and robust build quality. Japanese luthiers invest great care and pride in their work, ensuring each instrument reflects their dedication. Their precise attention to detail sets them apart from other guitar manufacturers internationally.
Japan’s leading guitar manufacturers, including Yamaha, Tokai, Ibanez, FujiGen Gakki, and ESP Guitars have made a name for themselves for their commitment to creating high-quality guitars. These instruments stand out for their excellent playability, sound, and affordability. The production process in Japan is centered on ensuring every guitar meets the highest standards, with great attention paid to:
- Wood selection: The tonewoods selected are of exceptional quality, sourced either from traditional channels or handpicked from eco-conscious suppliers.
- Construction: Using traditional methods like hand-fitting and hand-carving, expert luthiers craft instruments that offer impeccable fit and finish.
- Hardware: Components like pickups, bridges, and tuners, which are of the highest quality, ensure that the guitar remains durable and performs well.
- Innovation: Japanese guitar brands are at the forefront of innovation. For instance,Ibanez’s Wizard necks are known for their slim design that aids fast playing, and Takamine pioneered the development of acoustic guitar preamps.
The high standard of quality in Japanese guitars reflects the cultural importance of craftsmanship. In Japan, the work of artisans is deeply respected, and their meticulous approach to guitar-making produces instruments of exceptional quality. This dedication results in guitars that musicians can be genuinely proud to own and perform with.
Choosing a guitar from a prestigious Japanese brand isn’t only about owning a fine instrument; it’s about being part of a rich tradition of craftsmanship and artistic excellence. When you carefully select the guitar that best suits your style, you’ll enjoy the exceptional craftsmanship that has made Japanese guitar brands recognized and admired worldwide.
3.2. Signature Series and Partnerships
Japanese guitar brands often team up with famous musicians to create exclusive signature models, bringing a unique blend of artistry and functionality to the instruments. The collaboration between Steve Vai and Ibanez gave birth to the JEM and Universe series, featuring the unique “monkey grip” and standout designs. Additionally, their partnership produced the legendary RG series.
James Taylor frequently takes to the stage with Takamine and Yamaha guitars, reflecting the close relationship between prominent artists and Japanese guitar brands. Yamaha is highly respected for providing top-notch instruments at affordable rates, earning the trust of numerous musicians.
Known for their outstanding performance on stage, Takamine guitars are often the choice of celebrated artists. Garth Brooks, Bruce Springsteen, Blake Shelton, and Bruno Mars are among the well-known figures who have played these guitars during their performances.
Through signature series and artist collaborations, Japanese guitar brands demonstrate their ability to rival American brands. The association with internationally acclaimed musicians serves as a testament to their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative contributions, which resonate with guitar enthusiasts across the globe.
>>> See more: How to buy guitars from Japan? Everything you need to know
4. Buying From Famous Japanese Guitar Brands On Janbox
For guitar enthusiasts looking to explore premium options, Janbox offers a diverse selection of guitars from renowned Japanese brands. These instruments are celebrated for their precision and superior performance, making them a great choice for musicians of all levels. Here are some reasons why buying from famous Japanese guitar brands on Janbox is a good choice:
- Wide selection of top brands: Janbox integrates leading marketplaces like Amazon Japan, Mercari, Yahoo! Auctions, and many more into our platform, bringing you a curated selection of renowned Japanese guitar brands such as Yamaha, Ibanez, ESP, etc. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you’ll find the perfect instrument to fit your playing style.
- Competitive pricing: Japanese guitars are often considered a great value for money, offering high-end quality at affordable prices. Buying through Janbox gives you access to these guitars at competitive rates, often with exclusive deals.
- Secure and convenient shopping: Janbox ensures a secure online shopping experience, with easy navigation, reliable payment options (including Visa/ Mastercard/ Paypal or Janbox wallet), and worldwide shipping. You can shop with confidence knowing your transaction is safe.
- Customer support and warranty: When purchasing from Janbox, you get top-notch customer service, including assistance with any issues, and access to warranties on products. This added support ensures peace of mind with your purchase.
- Global Shipping: Janbox provides international shipping, making it easier for guitar enthusiasts worldwide to get their hands on authentic Japanese-made guitars, no matter where they are.
5. FAQs
5.1. Are Japanese Guitars Brands Good For Beginner Players?
Ibanez caters to players of various experience levels, from beginners to intermediates. They also feature a variety of scale sizes, which is perfect for those with smaller hands or for gifting to a child in need of a more manageable instrument.
Yamaha offers excellent value with their entry-level guitars, combining affordability with quality. These instruments provide good tone and comfort, which is why they’re favored by many new guitarists.
5.2. Why Are Japanese Guitars Considered So Good?
Good Japanese guitar brands are famous for their attention to detail and precision, crafting guitars of exceptional quality. Their models often provide great value for the price, rivaling the top American brands while costing less. The consistent and accurate production process is one of their standout features.
5.3. Do Japanese Guitar Brands Offer Custom-Made Guitars?
Famous Japanese guitar brands such as ESP and Ibanez offer the ability to customize guitars, allowing musicians to select specific designs, hardware, and materials to match their individual needs. ESP stands out for its exceptional custom builds, which are popular among professional players.
Conclusion
In summary, the 7 Japanese guitar brands which are highlighted in this blog represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship, innovation, and quality. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can trust that a Japanese guitar will provide you with years of outstanding performance and reliability. Don’t wait, visit Janbox now to grab your favorite guitar from top Japanese guitar brands.
Website: https://janbox.com
Email: support@janbox.com
