Guitar Shop AURA - Guitar catalog English site -

Shoichi Yanai



〔detail〕
InstrumentShoichi Yanai
CategoryJapanese Classical Guitars 〔New〕
Number/ModelVicente Arias model
Scale length650mm
CountryJapan
Year2025Year
TopSolid Spruce
Side&BackSolid Indian Rosewood
Condition※10
List price¥440,000
Price (tax included)Please Inquire
option

Neck:Cedro
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish:  top/Shellac, back & sides/Shellac
Tuning Machine:RUBNER
String height:1string 2.8mm/6string 3.6mm

[Profile]
Shoichi Yanai is a guitar maker based in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. He learned the art of guitar making from Seiichi Nobe, the son of renowned luthier Shoji Nobe, and continues to handcraft each instrument with care and precision.

While maintaining a steady pace of production—creating roughly one guitar per year—Yanai consults with Kaoru Ono and remains deeply committed to the traditions of early 20th-century classical guitar making. He specializes in faithful replicas of historic models by legendary luthiers such as Hauser I, Enrique Garcia, and Francisco Simplicio.

His all-shellac guitars, known for their rustic aesthetic and warm tonal character, are especially appreciated by beginners. Despite his low production volume, Yanai is one of the makers strongly supported and regularly introduced by AURA.

[Description]
This is the Vicente Arias Model 2025 No.13 by Shoichi Yanai, newly arrived in Japan.

Based on a 1900 Vicente Arias design, this model features a rare construction detail: a so-called “double back,” which enhances projection and tonal complexity. The fingerboard is more rounded than what is typical for classical guitars, and the treble side extends up to the 21st fret—an uncommon but thoughtful touch.



MORE ▼




Click to enlarge the photos below