Fukuoka is not only known for its vibrant culture and culinary delights but also for its thriving music scene. For guitar enthusiasts, the city offers a variety of excellent guitar shops, particularly in the bustling Tenjin area. Whether you’re looking for a high-end acoustic, a sleek electric, or just want to browse, Fukuoka’s guitar shops provide something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top guitar stores in Fukuoka, perfect for anyone on the hunt for their next instrument.
1. Ishibashi Music Fukuoka (Tenjin)
Ishibashi Music is one of Japan’s most well-known musical instrument retailers, and the Fukuoka branch in Tenjin lives up to its reputation. This store offers a wide selection of guitars, from beginner models to high-end instruments. Whether you’re looking for electric guitars, basses, or acoustics, Ishibashi Music has something for everyone. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, ready to help you find the perfect guitar to suit your style and budget. The store also carries a variety of accessories, amplifiers, and pedals, making it a one-stop shop for all your musical needs.
2. Kurosawa Gakki Fukuoka (Tenjin)
Kurosawa Gakki is a must-visit for anyone interested in high-quality acoustic guitars, especially Martin guitars. As the official distributor of Martin guitars in Japan, Kurosawa Gakki Fukuoka offers an extensive selection of these renowned instruments. The store’s collection includes both new and used Martin guitars, as well as other prestigious brands. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the various models and help you find the guitar that best fits your playing style. Whether you’re a professional musician or a passionate hobbyist, Kurosawa Gakki is a great place to explore some of the finest acoustic guitars available.
3. BIG BOSS Fukuoka (Tenjin)
BIG BOSS Fukuoka, located in Tenjin, is an ESP direct store and a haven for electric guitar enthusiasts. ESP guitars are known for their craftsmanship and are favored by many professional musicians, including Metallica, particularly in the rock and metal genres. In Japan, ESP is also widely recognized as the go-to brand for visual kei artists, leading to a selection of guitars with bold, unconventional designs and striking color schemes. BIG BOSS Fukuoka offers a wide range of ESP models, from signature series to custom shop creations. The store even accepts custom orders, allowing you to create a guitar that perfectly suits your unique style. If you’re a fan of ESP or looking for a high-performance electric guitar with a distinctive look, BIG BOSS Fukuoka is the place to visit.
4. Dolphin Guitars (Tenjin)
Dolphin Guitars specializes in acoustic guitars and is located in the heart of Tenjin. This boutique shop is known for its curated selection of high-end acoustic guitars, including both new and vintage models. Dolphin Guitars prides itself on offering instruments that are not only beautiful but also of exceptional quality. The staff are passionate about acoustic guitars and can provide expert advice on choosing the right instrument for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a traditional dreadnought or a custom-built guitar, Dolphin Guitars is a must-visit for acoustic guitar lovers. Notably, Dolphin Guitars carries guitars from Asturias, a renowned handmade guitar brand based in Kurume, Fukuoka.
5. Fine Guitars (Tenjin)
Fine Guitars is a well-known guitar shop in Fukuoka, famous for its charismatic and knowledgeable manager. The shop offers a wide range of guitars, from vintage to modern, and is particularly known for its personalized customer service. However, whether the manager will be accommodating to foreign customers depends on his mood that day. Despite this, his deep passion for guitars and extensive knowledge make Fine Guitars a favorite among local musicians. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, the shop’s welcoming atmosphere and expert guidance will help you find the perfect guitar. Fine Guitars is a place where you can not only buy an instrument but also gain valuable insights into the world of guitars.
6. Yamaha Music Fukuoka (Tenjin)
Yamaha Music Fukuoka is the official store of the Yamaha brand, offering a selection of Yamaha guitars and other musical instruments. However, guitars are not the store’s main focus; Yamaha Music Fukuoka primarily specializes in pianos and wind instruments. This makes it a great place for musicians interested in a broader range of instruments, though guitar enthusiasts might find the selection a bit limited compared to other stores on this list. If you’re looking for high-quality Yamaha products or need accessories for your piano or wind instrument, this store is worth a visit.
7. Shimamura Gakki Amu Plaza Hakata (Hakata)
While most of the shops on this list are located in Tenjin, Shimamura Gakki’s Amu Plaza Hakata store is worth mentioning. Located in the bustling Hakata area, this store is part of the Shimamura Gakki chain, one of Japan’s largest music retailers. The Hakata store offers a wide range of guitars, from beginner models to professional-grade instruments. The store also has a strong selection of music accessories and offers music lessons. Whether you’re passing through Hakata Station or staying in the area, Shimamura Gakki is a convenient stop for all your musical needs.
Special Mention: Asturias Guitars – Handcrafted Excellence from Kurume
No guide to Fukuoka’s guitar scene would be complete without mentioning Asturias Guitars, a renowned brand that originates from Kurume, Fukuoka. Asturias is celebrated for its handcrafted acoustic guitars, which are meticulously crafted in the brand’s workshop in Kurume. Each guitar is a testament to the skill and dedication of Asturias' luthiers, who combine traditional techniques with modern innovation to produce instruments of exceptional quality and tonal beauty. Asturias guitars are prized by musicians around the world for their rich sound and exquisite craftsmanship. If you’re interested in experiencing the craftsmanship of Asturias, Dolphin Guitars in Tenjin carries a selection of these fine instruments.
A Guitar Lover’s Journey Through Fukuoka
Fukuoka’s Tenjin area is a paradise for guitar enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of shops that cater to different tastes and needs. From the high-end acoustics at Kurosawa Gakki to the rock-centric offerings at BIG BOSS, and the personalized service at Fine Guitars, there’s something for every guitar lover in this vibrant city. While Tenjin is the main hub, don’t miss the chance to visit Shimamura Gakki in Hakata if you’re in the area. And of course, no trip to Fukuoka’s guitar shops would be complete without exploring the handcrafted excellence of Asturias Guitars, proudly made in Kurume. Plan your day around these shops, and you’re sure to find the perfect guitar to take home as a souvenir of your musical journey in Fukuoka.
Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just beginning your musical journey, Fukuoka’s guitar shops offer an unforgettable experience. Spend a day exploring these stores, and discover why Fukuoka is a city that truly understands the art of music.
