A New Generation of Japanese Concert Guitar Making
We are delighted to welcome this exceptional 2026 So Kimishima “LUNA” Custom to Grand Guitar Salon — a sophisticated concert instrument bringing together an important Japanese guitar-making heritage with So Kimishima’s own modern vision.
The LUNA Custom is a guitar created for the serious player. Its character is built around refinement, responsiveness, balance and musical expression, with the warmth and immediacy associated with cedar complemented by the depth, colour and complexity expected from a fine concert instrument.
There is an unmistakable sense of elegance throughout the guitar. It feels modern without losing its connection to tradition, with thoughtful ergonomic details designed to create a comfortable and natural relationship between the player and the instrument.
What makes this guitar particularly compelling is the philosophy behind it. So Kimishima comes from an extraordinary lineage in Japanese classical guitar making, yet the LUNA is not simply an exercise in preserving tradition. It represents a new generation — one that respects the knowledge of the past while continuing to develop the concert guitar for today’s player.
Beautifully crafted, refined and highly individual, this is an exciting opportunity to experience the work of one of Japan’s contemporary guitar makers.
A remarkable new arrival and unquestionably a must try.
Description
Specifications
So Kimishima Concert Classical Guitar
“LUNA” Custom Model
Built in the year 2026
- Scale Length: 650 mm
- Nut Width: 52 mm
- Soundboard: Western Red Cedar
- Back & Sides: Madagascar Rosewood
- Neck: Mahogany Elevated Neck
- Fingerboard: Ebony with 20th Fret
- Armrest: Rosewood
- Bridge: Madagascar Rosewood
- Tuners: Gotoh LUX Tuners with Ebony Knobs
- Soundboard Finish: Hand-Rubbed French Polish
- Body Finish: Cashew Oil
- Case: Hard Shell Case Included
- Total Length: 98 cm / 38.5 inches
- Body Length: 48 cm / 18.89 inches
- Upper Bout: 29 cm / 11.413 inches
- Lower Bout: 37 cm / 14.56 inches
- Body Depth: 9.5 cm / 3.74 inches
- Weight: 1.80 kg / 3.968 lb
The LUNA Custom
The LUNA Custom represents a compelling balance between the traditions of fine Japanese guitar making and So Kimishima’s own contemporary approach to the concert classical guitar.
On this 2026 instrument, the combination of a Western Red Cedar soundboard with Madagascar Rosewood back and sides provides an exceptional foundation for a rich and expressive musical voice. Cedar offers the player immediacy and sensitivity, while the Madagascar rosewood contributes the potential for depth, colour and complexity.
Kimishima’s attention extends beyond sound alone. The elevated neck provides easier access into the upper register, while the armrest creates a more comfortable contact point between the guitarist and the instrument. These are thoughtful modern touches that complement rather than overpower the traditional character of the guitar.
The finishing is equally refined. A hand-rubbed French polish soundboard keeps the treatment of the top beautifully delicate, while the cashew oil finish used throughout the balance of the guitar gives the instrument a distinctive, understated appearance.
Rather than relying on excessive ornamentation, the LUNA Custom presents itself with quiet sophistication — allowing the quality of its woods, craftsmanship and musical purpose to remain at the centre of the instrument.
So Kimishima — Continuing an Important Japanese Guitar-Making Legacy
So Kimishima represents a fascinating continuation of one of the most important family traditions in modern Japanese classical guitar making.
He is the grandson of renowned Japanese guitar maker Masaru Kohno and joined the Sakurai-Kohno workshop in 2007, developing his craft under Masaki Sakurai. This gave Kimishima a remarkable foundation in the precision, discipline and accumulated knowledge associated with the Kohno-Sakurai tradition.
Yet his work is not simply about recreating the instruments of previous generations.
Kimishima has continued to develop his own identity as a guitar maker, incorporating contemporary ideas in construction, ergonomics and playability while retaining the refinement and attention to detail associated with the tradition from which he emerged.
The LUNA Custom embodies that evolution particularly well — an instrument connected to an important history, yet unmistakably designed for the modern concert guitarist.
For the player or collector searching for a contemporary Japanese classical guitar with pedigree, individuality, refined craftsmanship, and a genuine connection to the Kohno-Sakurai legacy, this 2026 So Kimishima LUNA Custom represents a truly special opportunity.
Available through Grand Guitar Salon with worldwide shipping.
Please note*
These are the actual photographs of this guitar.
Beautifully crafted, refined, and highly individual, this is an exciting opportunity to experience the work of one of Japan’s most respected contemporary guitar makers.
Due to the exceptional demand and limited production, the current waiting list for So Kimishima LUNA models is approaching two years. Once this instrument is sold, the next available LUNA Custom is not expected until 2028, making this a rare opportunity to acquire one of these exceptional guitars without the extended wait.
A remarkable new arrival and unquestionably a must-try for players and collectors seeking a truly distinctive Japanese concert instrument.
Additional information
| Weight | 12 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 115 × 51 × 21 cm |
