Headway’s Sakura Guitar
Continues moving forwards
This year marks the 9th year of Sakura Guitar production, which we started in 2014.
This year’s cherry blossom model was designed with the theme of “the sparkle of spring, cherry blossoms in full bloom”.
Now, it has become one of Headway’s most popular models.
However, in the beginning, it was a series of challenges.
Over the course of 9 years, we have developed a number of variations such as “Summer Cherry Blossom” and “Winter Cherry Blossom” based on various concepts.
We have produced many models such as the ones found in the “Sakura Collection” and others based on various similar concepts.
We believe this is the result of our continuous use of cherry wood in our craft.
Next year will mark our 10th anniversary, and we hope that you continue to enjoy and support the Sakura models that Headway continues to produce.
This year marks the 9th year of Sakura Guitar production, which we started in 2014. This year’s cherry blossom model was designed with the theme of “the sparkle of spring, cherry blossoms in full bloom”. Now, it has become one of Headway’s most popular models. However, in the beginning, it was a series of challenges. Over the course of 9 years, we have developed a number of variations such as “Summer Cherry Blossom” and “Winter Cherry Blossom” based on various concepts. We have produced many models such as the ones found in the “Sakura Collection” and others based on various similar concepts. We believe this is the result of our continuous use of cherry wood in our craft. Next year will mark our 10th anniversary, and we hope that you continue to enjoy and support the Sakura models that Headway continues to produce.
Production Limited to 15 Units
HD-SAKURA’23 SF,S-ESU/ATB
HD-SAKURA’23
SF,S-ESU/ATB
MSRP・・・￥360,000（w/o taxes）
Production Limited to 15 Units
HF-SAKURA’23 SF,S-ESU/ATB
HF-SAKURA’23
SF,S-ESU/ATB
MSRP・・・￥360,000（w/o taxes）
Feature 1
Shiny pearl finish that embodies the radiance of spring
The most distinctive feature of this model is the shiny pearl coating applied to the entire body. The color gradation is a burst of cherry blossom color that darkens from the center of the body toward the outside, and the expression changes depending on how the light hits it and the angle from which it is viewed. The result is a finish full of sparkling luster and freshness that is reminiscent of the spring sunlight. The coating technique to make the best use of Sakura wood, which has been cultivated through the experience of producing many Sakura models, is a technique only Aska factory craftsmen can do. Please take a look at this model if you find it in stores near you.
Feature 2
Cherry blossom tones woven with the Japanese Spirit
Our identity as a Japanese guitar maker is important to us, and “Sakura” wood, which is familiar to Japanese people and is a typical Japanese tree, is the most representative model in the Headway brand. The Sakura wood used in this model is the standard wood that we use the most in Headway’s Sakura guitars. It produces a crisp attack and clan tone, and with the added sweetness characteristic of Sakura wood, it can be used all-around for delicate arpeggios or powerful solo performances.
Detail
Feature
Shiny pearl finish that embodies the radiance of spring
The most distinctive feature of this model is the shiny pearl coating applied to the entire body. The color gradation is a burst of cherry blossom color that darkens from the center of the body toward the outside, and the expression changes depending on how the light hits it and the angle from which it is viewed. The result is a finish full of sparkling luster and freshness that is reminiscent of the spring sunlight. The coating technique to make the best use of Sakura wood, which has been cultivated through the experience of producing many Sakura models, is a technique only Aska factory craftsmen can do. Please take a look at this model if you find it in stores near you.
Cherry blossom tones woven with the Japanese Spirit
Our identity as a Japanese guitar maker is important to us, and “Sakura” wood, which is familiar to Japanese people and is a typical Japanese tree, is the most representative model in the Headway brand. The Sakura wood used in this model is the standard wood that we use the most in Headway’s Sakura guitars. It produces a crisp attack and clan tone, and with the added sweetness characteristic of Sakura wood, it can be used all-around for delicate arpeggios or powerful solo performances.
Headstock inlay with cherry blossoms in full bloom
The headstock features an inlay depicting cherry blossoms in full bloom. Additionally, there’s a design of a honeybee. Bees do not leave their hives during the cold season to prepare for spring, and when the weather warms up, they begin their activities, which is also an insect that tells us that spring is coming. The delicate inlay design together with the gold machine heads gives the guitar a luxurious feel.
Cherry blossom inlays fluttering in the spring breeze on the fingerboard
The design is based on the motif of cherry blossom petals blowing in the spring breeze on a rare ebony fingerboard. The unique and beautiful inlay work is an indispensable feature of the Sakura model. The position marks on the frets 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, and so on are also marked with large cherry blossoms, as well as the usual position marks. In addition, the 8th fret features a bee inlay.
A 3P structure combining cherry and Japanese maple wood
The body back is a 3-piece back construction combining cherry blossoms and maple. The center section of the maple is painted with a scene of fluttering cherry blossom petals covering the entire surface of the maple. The shiny pearl coating also changes the appearance depending on the angle of view and the way the light hits the surface. The sound of the maple trees also adds a crisp and clear quality that is unique to maple trees.
Sound hole cover featuring a woman in a kimono
This model comes with a sound hole cover featuring a woman in a kimono. Combined with the cherry blossom design, it gives the instrument a more elegant, Japanese-style finish. By storing the guitar with its sound hole covered by the sound hole cover, the sound hole will look lovely just by being there even when not playing.
34 Bracing
Headway Master Builder Momose has developed the “34 bracing” layout, which he has found to be the most responsive based on his recent production experience. The layout is closer to a “semi-forward shift” with the X-bracing crossed 4.6mm closer to the bridge side when compared to the forward shift, which is very appealing in terms of strength and stability. The result is a sound that responds well to even the most delicate touch, while retaining the softness and overtones of forward-shift bracing.
Extra-slim neck
The extra-slim U-neck is the thinnest in Headway’s history and has a shape that is easy to grip. The neck is reinforced with carbon rods to maintain Headway’s traditional characteristics of solidity and stability. This is a confident neck grip that women and players with small hands should try. The semi-gloss finish, which resembles a neck after it has been used for a while, gives the neck a good grip that allows the hand to completely and comfortably envelop the neck. In addition, the carbon bars inside of it increases rigidity and leads to better response.
Demo Video
