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First held in 2005, Tokyo Handcraft Guitar Festival (THGF), an exhibition of handmade guitars and ukuleles by domestic and overseas master craftsmen, and Super Acoustic Live took place on May 21 and 22 at Sumida Industrial Building Sunrise Hall for the first time after outbreak of the pandemic. In addition to hand-built guitars and ukuleles exhibited for review and trades, it provided instrument makers with opportunities to buy related parts, accessories, and wood materials.

Exhibitors slightly declined because of the corona virus, but it drew 79 luthiers and instrument makers including not a few first-time participants.

The visitors enjoyed seeing and experiencing highest quality models with characteristic features on display, talking with the instrument builders in person, placing orders and live concerts.

The 2-day event drew a total of 1,400 visitors with 1,500yen admission fee paid per day including representatives from music products industry, and professional musicians.

The exhibitors commented that they confirmed the real-time event could provide all the people involved with a stage to showcase products and a place of communication, and exchange information.

Miaki Inoue of THGF Steering Committee said, “Though the exhibitors declined 30% and the visitors, 10% over the last session 2 years ago, we are very pleased that we welcomed more than expected number of visitors. The atmosphere was great, the musical events were well accepted. I believe both the exhibitors and visitors were happy with the result.”

2023 THGF takes place on May 27 and 28 at the same site.