Positive experience overall, despite coming in on a wet rainy afternoon.
I already knew which guitar I wanted, so shortly after entering the store, I was helped out by one of the employees. He was very patient with me, despite the language barrier, and he tested the guitar, put new strings, and setup the guitar. It did not take long. I also asked for him to recommend me a hardcase for the guitar, and so we went downstairs to choose one that fits the guitar well. I was glad to receive the guitar and he seemed glad to give it to me as I left the store.
The only slightly odd thing I will warn about is, the guitar I bought was priced at retail price, or at least close to it, so I wasn't really expecting to just get the guitar right off the display wall. It was okay in the end, since the guitar was still in great condition despite hanging there for who knows how long. I assume the guitar wasn't used due to the price, condition, and the plastic covering on the pickups and pick guard were still on it, including some tags on the guitar.
Now, that I'm finally home by flight, the guitar is still in one piece and is working real good. I don't regret the purchase. (I brought it on the plane as carry-on, if anyone is wondering. You just might have to be lucky with the flight attendants and not having so many passengers on the return flight so there's overhead bin space...
Read moreMy recent experience purchasing a flute from Shimokura Music Store was truly exceptional. The staff at Shimokura was incredibly helpful and pleasant, making the entire process of purchasing the instrument a breeze.
From the moment we walked into their store, we were greeted with a warm welcome and a willingness to help. The staff was knowledgeable about their inventory and provided excellent guidance on selecting the perfect flute. They were patient and attentive, answering all questions and ensuring that we felt comfortable with the purchase. Though they speak some English, I would recommend coming to the store with a native Japanese speaker.
Overall, my experience with Shimokura was fantastic, and I would highly recommend them to anyone in the market for a musical instrument. Their staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and committed to providing the best customer service possible. Thank you, Shimokura, for a...
Read moreMy first experience was in May 2024. I purchased a new Yamaha Trumpet. The staff at the store were very kind and helpful. I don’t speak Japanese and they spoke English well that they were able to help me with everything I wanted. There were some things that we could not understand, but Google Translate and gestures helped us.
I have returned to the store 1 year later (May 23, 2025) to purchase a trumpet for my son. Again, the staff was so helpful and kind. I was able to test out the instrument in one of their play rooms. I also picked-up some valve oils and accessories that were way cheaper here than in the U.S. It was another wonderful experience at Shimokura.
Thier prices were the best and I had spent several days visitng music shops all over Tokyo (Ginza, Shibuya, Chiyoda City), Shimokura was the best, and the service to match.
Thank you to all staff, and be well. We will see each other...
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