What this is
The TOKYO Handcraft Guitar Fest is Japan's largest festival dedicated to handcrafted guitars and ukuleles, celebrating its landmark 20th anniversary in 2026. The event unites over 90 exhibitors from Japan and international markets, showcasing the work of master luthiers and independent instrument makers in one concentrated showcase. Attendees can physically handle and test instruments across the full exhibitor floor, attend educational seminars and workshops, and catch live performances at the SUPER ACOUSTIC LIVE 2026, which features 19 acts. The festival functions simultaneously as a trade fair, cultural gathering, and live music event — making it a rare all-in-one destination for the acoustic instrument community in Asia.
Who should go
Serious guitarists, ukulele players, instrument collectors, and luthiery enthusiasts will find this event genuinely rewarding, with direct access to handcrafted instruments that rarely appear in ordinary music shops. The atmosphere blends the focused energy of a trade show with the warmth of a live music event, attracting both working professionals and passionate hobbyists. Music lovers who simply enjoy acoustic performances will also find value in the SUPER ACOUSTIC LIVE 2026 lineup, which includes established artists such as Kotaro Oshio, Michitaka Okazaki, and Eriko Ono. Arrive early to secure spots at the most popular workshops and to give yourself enough time to work through all 90+ exhibitor booths without rushing.
Good to know
Sumida Sangyo Kaikan is a mid-sized convention facility in the Kinshicho area of eastern Tokyo, well served by both JR and Tokyo Metro lines. The event spans two floors (8F and 9F), so allow extra time to cover both levels thoroughly — the exhibitor floor alone with 90+ booths will take most visitors at least two to three hours. Smaller luthier exhibitors at craft instrument fairs typically prefer cash transactions, so bring yen even if the venue itself accepts cards. The SUPER ACOUSTIC LIVE 2026 performances are a ticketed or schedule-based component — confirm on the official site whether a separate ticket or reservation is required for live acts. Foreign visitors should note that most seminar content will be conducted in Japanese, though the instrument-testing floor is universally accessible regardless of language.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.