Fender Japan Guitars

Fender's Made in Japan (MIJ) guitars are popular instruments that, in terms of price-point, somewhat bridge the gap between the brand's Mexican-made and American-crafted offerings. However, many guitarists believe that Japanese Fender guitars are on par with the USA models when it comes to build quality — and are generally liked by players who prefer a more unique vibe. In fact, a lot of Fender MIJ guitars are limited edition!

Fender started producing electric guitars and basses in Japan in the '80s to compete with companies (like Tokai) who were pumping out affordable, well-made Fender and Gibson copies. In the years since though, Fender's Japanese division have formed a distinctive style — adopting a "vintage modern" approach when it comes to their instruments. We're talking glossy necks, traditional fret sizes and vintage-voiced pickups — occasionally merged with contemporary appointments like locking tuners and aftermarket hardware from the likes of Babicz (featured on the Aerodyne Special Series models).