Fender Japan Guitars
Fender’s Made in Japan line offers exceptional craftsmanship, blending traditional Fender designs with Japanese precision. Sometimes abbreviated to MIJ, these unique guitars feature striking finishes, premium materials, and innovative twists on classic models – bringing a fresh flair to Fender's iconic sound and playability.
Fender Made in Japan Limited Cyclone RW, 3-Color Sunburst
Fender Aerodyne Special Telecaster, California Blue
Fender Made in Japan Limited Cyclone RW, Lake Placid Blue
Fender Made in Japan Limited Cyclone MN, White Blonde
Fender MIJ Traditional 50s Telecaster, Butterscotch Blonde
Fender 2024 Made in Japan Hybrid II Telecaster Maple Neck Modena Red
Fender 2024 Collection Made in Japan Hybrid II Telecaster SH RW, Vintage Natural
Fender Made in Japan Limited Hybrid II Telecaster Noir RW, Black
Fender Made in Japan Traditional II '51 Nocaster, Butterscotch Blonde
Fender 2024 Collection Made in Japan Hybrid II Telecaster MN, Flame Sunset Orange Transparent
Fender FSR Made in Japan Hybrid II Telecaster P90 , Mystic Aztec Gold
Fender Made In Japan Hybrid II Jazzmaster RW, White Blonde
Fender Made in Japan Traditional Late 60s Stratocaster RW, Sonic Blue
Fender FSR Made in Japan Hybrid II Stratocaster RW, Mystic Aztec Gold
Fender Made in Japan Traditional 2025 Collection 60s Jaguar RW, Competition 3C Sunburst/Aged Natural
Fender Made in Japan Traditional 2025 Collection, 60s Jazzmaster RW, Competition Black / 3C Sunburst
Fender Limited Edition Made in Japan Traditional II '60s Stratocaster RW, 3-Tone Sunburst
Fender Made in Japan Traditional 2025 Collection, 60s Jaguar RW, White Pearl
Fender Made in Japan Traditional 2025 Collection, 60s Jazzmaster RW, Black Pearl
Fender Made in Japan Limited Starmaster RW, Jupiter Blue
Fender Made in Japan Limited Starmaster RW, Candy Apple Red
Fender Made in Japan Limited Starmaster RW, Black
About Fender Made in Japan Guitars
The Fender Made in Japan (MIJ) series stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and distinct twist on traditional Fender designs. Starting in the 1980s as a response to high-quality Fender-style clones emerging from Japan, Fender established its Japanese line, crafting guitars that blend vintage authenticity with modern precision. Fender Japan quickly earned a reputation for superb attention to detail and innovative offerings, often incorporating features and finishes not found in American-made models.
One notable release is the JV Modified series, inspired by the original 1980s "Japanese Vintage" guitars. These modernised versions pay homage to their vintage predecessors, boasting classic looks with upgraded, player-centric features like contemporary neck profiles, versatile pickup options, and updated hardware.
Fender Japan guitars are celebrated for their unique build, using high-quality materials like alder, ash, maple, and basswood, delivering tonal variety and visual appeal. Series like the 'Traditional' and 'Hybrid II' showcase Fender's iconic shapes, such as the Stratocaster and Telecaster, with innovative twists on design and playability. Unique collaborations, like the Aerodyne Special Series and models inspired by Japanese pop culture, highlight Fender Japan’s adventurous approach to design.
Favoured by guitarists like Mike Stern and Jim Root, these guitars have found a home across many genres, from surf rock to indie. Whether you seek classic Fender style, a modern reimagining, or a rare limited-edition release, the Made in Japan line offers something for every guitarist, balancing Fender’s legacy with cutting-edge innovation.
FAQs
When were Fenders made in Japan?
Fender began making guitars in Japan in 1982 to compete with high-quality Japanese-made replicas. The Made in Japan line has since become renowned for its craftsmanship, unique finishes, and modern takes on classic designs, blending Fender tradition with Japanese precision.
Do they still make Japanese Fenders?
Fender still produces the Made in Japan series, known for quality, innovation, and unique designs. The current range includes models like the JV Modified, Aerodyne Special, and more, offering modern features alongside vintage-inspired Fender style, appealing to players worldwide.
Does Fender have a factory in Japan?
Fender guitars are manufactured in Japan through partnerships with esteemed factories like FujiGen and Dyna Gakki. These facilities are known for their precision and craftsmanship, producing unique Fender models with high-quality materials, innovative features, and iconic designs that honour Fender’s heritage.