Masaki Sakurai, the nephew of renowned Japanese luthier Masaru Kohno, was born in 1944. After studying electrical engineering at Sophia University, he joined "Kohno Guitar Manufacturing" in 1967. In 1988, he earned the prestigious first prize at the Fourth International Paris Guitar Making Competition. Sakurai’s guitars are celebrated for their flawless craftsmanship, exceptional playability, and impressive sound volume.
This guitar embodies all the signature characteristics of Kohno guitars - superb craftsmanship, a beautiful spruce top with a warm honey hue, remarkable projection, and effortless playability. The headstock design blends elements from the guitars of Robert Bouchet and Masaru Kohno, creating a unique and elegant design.
Condition
The guitar is in mint, unplayed condition. The neck is straight with no fretwear. Set up at Masaki's workshop for medium-low action. There is good amount of room left on the bridge saddle.
We keep our guitars in a room with 45% relative humidity.
Specs.
Top: High Grade Solid Spruce
Back and Sides: Central South American Rosewood
Finish: Cashew Lacquer
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Ebony
Bridge: Rosewood, Natural Bone Saddle
Scale Length: 650 mm
Nut width: 52 mm
String Spacing: 8,4 mm
Action at 12 fret (1st): 3.0 mm
Action at 12 fret (6th): 3.6 mm
Comes with a quality hard case
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Masaki Sakurai, a greatly respected name in the world of classical guitar. He passed away in July of 2025 at the age of 81.
Masaki Sakurai 1944 - 2025
Born in Tokyo on May 10, 1944, Sakurai began his lifelong journey in lutherie in 1966 when he joined the workshop of his uncle, Masaru Kohno—one of Japan’s most influential and internationally recognized guitar makers. Under Kohno’s mentorship, Sakurai developed a deep understanding of classical guitar construction, tonewood selection, and the meticulous techniques required to produce instruments of exceptional quality.
Sakurai’s skill as a luthier earned international recognition when he won First Prize at the 4th International Guitar Making Competition in Paris in 1988. After Kohno’s passing in 1998, he carried on the legacy of the workshop under the name Sakurai-Kohno. With great respect for tradition and a forward-looking spirit, he continued refining the workshop’s designs and elevating its standards of craftsmanship.
We were honored to feature many of Masaki Sakurai’s instruments here at GSI over the years, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. His influence on guitar making, especially in Japan, is profound and enduring.
