Expert repair, sales, selection. I have found my archetier! And next to delicious food in Japantown. read more

WARNING: DO NOT let the older lady touch your instrument case! She will just open it, touching your instrument, and making (not needed) adjustments without asking. She doesn't know what she's doing (maybe she can do basic things like changing strings and tuning, but nothing more) and tried to move my bridge but obviously had no plans to move my soundpost or make my bridge higher which would have been needed with her move. She does not stop when you tell her to stop numerous times. I had to start yelling... The luthier found issues with my instruments which other shops were not able to diagnose, yay! However, my instruments were left scratched up (!) and very dirty after the work. They needed to be shaved/sanded and the dust was left all over the bridge, fingerboard, peg box, and instrument surface. One was damaged (chipped); they made no fuss when brought to their attention, immediately apologized, and fixed it. This shop came recommended by multiple professionals. Maybe they figured I wasn't a professional and thus treated my instruments poorly? On the plus side, the price for all work done were very reasonable. They also have parking in the back. read more

First of all, it's beautiful inside. The rows and rows of strings...this is their art and their passion, not simply a business. We've interacted with at least 3 employees for rental, purchase and repairs over the past year. They are all so professional. Even though I'm new to the violin world, they treat the customer with respect. Repair prices are reasonable and turnaround is fast. The instrument we purchased is absolutely gorgeous and $150 less than another shop I checked. Kamimoto has everything you need for strings, and yes, the corgi occasionally wandering around is cute, too. read more

I rented a violin for 6 months and given the violin costs about $450 I decided to purchase it. I asked them if I were to pay the $450 could I bring the used one in and get a brand new one. She kept telling me that I should keep the used one and questioned why would I want a new one. Mind you apparently the used price and the new price is the same when you want to purchase the violin. However if I were to sell it back to them it would be worth $100 less. Regardless like others have said the customer service here is not the best. read more

I haven't been here in 10 years since I bought my violin here! 10 years ago they let me try out a couple of different violins before I decided on which one I wanted to buy, which was neat. I recently picked up the violin again and remembered having a great experience perusing the Kamimoto's store. I even kept my receipt lol! Nowadays, you can no longer go through the front of the store, where the sign is, and they operate on the backside of the house instead. They limit customers, who are trying out instruments, in their shop due to COVID-19. I came here for a new E-string a few weeks ago. Fortunately, I knew what brand I wanted because one of the younger girls, who was helping customers, wasn't sure about specific details on strings and needed to ask other workers about them (which is fine, since she might not play an instrument or she played another instrument). But it might be good practice to research what you need before going to the store. read more

all is well and amazing. been a customer since i was 5 years old, although my family paid for my rentals and finally my full size when i was a tween, from multiple tours, concerts, teaching students and lulls in my training i have always loved kamimotos! thank you Julia for changing my strings! i'm 25 now!! not a short review, but yeah my first and awesome mentor studied with Shinichi Suzuki, i'm loving and learning every day! read more

It's terrible service. They didn't send me rentals bills for more than 1 year. Violin cost $530, I ended up paying them more than $1000 for rental. The old Chinese lady there is stupid and rude with very bad customer service. I returned the rental violin and payed whatever they told me that I owed them. Will never do any business with them again read more

I bought a cello bow from here for about $868, which was the most expensive I have ever spent on a bow. I was very careful with it, but about six months later, the bow snapped in half, even though I was told it was good quality. This was right before a competition, so I contacted the shop to see if they could do anything about it. They didn't even offer to try to fix the bow. Instead, they said they could not refund me and I would get a 20% discount ONLY IF I purchased another bow with my own money. Another cellist I know had the exact same thing happen, so I will definitely not be purchasing another bow. $868 dollars is a lot of money. read more

Awesome Service and staff. You won't be disappointed! They offer tuning and violin repairs and great customer service. This shop is top-notch. read more

Very nice and helpful people that helped me very quickly. While I was waiting I got to see their dog which made my day a million times better. read more

For the most part, we are pretty happy with this place in terms of quality, price and program. We, however, mistakenly returned the shoulder rest and nobody said anything. When we called them on it, we were told that there's nothing they can do about it. That definitely seems very shady and dishonest for them to take something that was not a part of the rental. read more

Rented a viola there. Overall mediocre quality. The main thing was the service. The man ringing us up had a passive aggressive, almost arrogant behavior towards us. We did not feel too welcome there at all. Hoped it would be better, but unfortunately wasn't. read more

Rented a violin for my son. It was a 1/2 and in sub par shape. The bridge was flattened out and looked it had multiple repairs done to it. They raised the A string with parchment because it was flush with the other strings. But here's the deal, the rental is a minimum contract of $80. The quality of the rental was not great and for $80 I could have purchased a beginer violin at half the cost and the same sound quality. (1) they should have checked the state of the violin prior to rental to a beginner (2) lower the rates for child size violins (3) don't tell your customer you're going to put duct tape on a violin that's in already poor shape. Swap it out! I've asked 2 other companies about their policy and they were baffled by this. They said they would have swapped it out with a newer one And have a rent to own program where all the money you put into rentals can go directly into a new (though probably marked up) purchase. I don't know how they treat customers that have their own gear, but I wasn't impressed. read more

Great service and very honest too. Our violin instructor recommended Kamimotos and I am so glad she did. Our daughter's violin was in need of repairs and they did an amazing job. The price was reasonable and so was the turn around time. read more

I have been calling since late March more than 20 times, left many voice mail and said the voice message is full. Just wanted to know how to return the violin. Because the store is closed voice mail is full. And I write to them a letter in early April asking how to return the violin. But dispute all of my effort no one called me back or reply my question. Instead I receive another invoice. This business maybe not honest. read more

Kamimoto String Instruments - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

Yeah I came here once with my main men Bvo and Josh (EVOB) to get Bvo's strings fixed on his violin. It was a smooth process, no problems at all, and the price was pretty reasonable. The inside is pretty nice too, a little cramped, but they have a ton of instruments and accessories. I'm taking away a star because parking is tough due to its location in San Jose's Japantown. Bvo being the driver didn't help :^) read more

This is my first time writing a sad review. This is a very disrespectful place to rent I was overcharged by $500 Do not recommend! read more

Thank you for all the wonderful work you and your team did on my violin! It sounds so much better and looks beautiful! Now I want to practice everyday read more

Kamimoto String Instruments - Violin - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

My wife bought a violin and had a slight problem with the chin test. The paint rubbed off and stained her chin and clothing. We took it to the owner (Chinese man) and he agreed to replace the chin rest. My wife asked for an apology for the poorly crafted piece, but he would not apologize for anything. He kept saying that it was my wife's fault for choosing that violin. My wife was so upset about this customer service that she decided to return the violin for a full refund. That owner needs to learn a lesson that customer service is important. I would never return here because the owner has poor craftsmanship and the worst customer service that I've seen. read more

My daughter broke her violin (the scroll) and I superglued it. It works for a few months but it get loose and I can't do anything about it anymore. I was ready to spend more money to buy or rent another violin. I first came to Heaney who was really helpful but they told me that my superglue made things worst and they can't fix it. However they refer me to go to Kamimoto to check if they can fix it. (I love how they are so nice about it even though they are direct competitor). So I came and talk to John. He was confident that he could fix it. It wasn't cheap, but much cheaper than buying a new one. Today (a week later) I came to get the repaired violin and I was so thankful that it works and he did an amazing job. I'll update my review if his work doesn't last long, but he said it will last and if it is not, I can return and he will fix it again for free. 5 stars for amazing luthier. The last star is reserved for the quality of violins they sell which I've yet to try. So can't comment much on it yet. read more

Kamimoto String Instruments - The workshop - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

I love this shop. John is friendly, pragmatic and not in a rush to take your money. I trust him, and I am grateful for the quality of their work. read more

I came with high hopes of a positive experience. My Grandchild was going to take violin and I wanted a good instrument for her to learn on. I rented a violin and paid about 400.00 in rental fees. I came back to see if I could purchase the instrument but didn't note that I was supposed to notify them in a limited time for that option or it was off the table. The woman I dealt with would not budge on a purchase for this very used student violin that clearly I had already paid for in rental fees. She still wanted to charge me an additional amount of several hundred dollars. I was not happy with her unwillingness to reasonably work with me. I don't recommend this place. She even rudely yelled at her repair gentleman, a person who obviously had craft experience for violin repair. I would think you would respect someone in your employ more than that. I left with a dirty feeling of being taken advantage of as a customer. All because I didn't read the fine print. Look for someplace else to rent from. Stay away! read more

Add to Jon's many talents and accomplishments master violin craftsman and restorer of treasured, but neglected, string instruments kept too long on dusty closet shelves in pledge of one day bringing the music and its memories back to life. With the urging of a certain eight-year-old customer of Kamimotos, who three years ago declared she wanted to learn to play the violin, we brought in a barely recognizable violin relic from the early 20th century. Some quarantine months later, when I saw Jon's call, I was prepared for " there's nothing we can do for an instrument in this condition". What I got was, "Your violin is back to very good condition now - everything is standard set up and the sound is very good" Attached was a video of their Violin Teacher Mathew beautifully playing an instrument we could never have imagined was ours. read more

Walking into Kamimoto's was definitely an experience, I felt like I was walking into a viola version of Ollivander's. I came to Kamimoto's looking to get more information on cellos on a Saturday afternoon and ended up meeting their resident cello expert, Stephanie. To give you a bit of background, I hadn't picked up an instrument in decade and she didn't make me feel in the least bit like a dunce. It was maybe 10 minutes to closing but she took the time to properly explain what one should look for in a cello and how different cello's even of the same model will sound different. Even though this ran through 20 minutes past closing, she was patient with her explanations and even brought out other cellos for me to hear the difference. I walked out with a rental and haven't been more excited! This place is amazing :D read more

The best deals on quality string instruments and repairs anywhere in the Bay Area!!! I've been working exclusively with Jon Li, Sophia, Jim & James for over 10 years. I've sold, bought, rented, and repaired many instruments through Kamimoto and have always been happy with the results. Jon's consignment and appraisal values are match to market rate, and Sophia will always shoot you straight. Delivery of quality work is Hideo & Jon's trademark. CELLO PLAYERS: I personally play one of Mr. Li's J.B. Vuillaume cello bows, which has been called by colleagues and students, "nothing short of remarkable". Their shoppe brand (Arte Chinois) is of sound quality, as is their constant selection of German and Romanian mid level cellos. I purchased an exquisite Italian cello and BAM case from Kamimoto, both which I adore. Kamimoto also carries lovely high end Chinese (Ming) cellos and violins, which are special and must played. Price wise, Kamimoto wins hands down compared to any other shoppe in the Bay Area. I've shopped Calin Wultur cellos (later buying a Guaneri copy) of the exact same year and quality level statewide, and Kamimoto beat everyone from San Diego to San Francisco by at least $200. read more

I am a loyal customer at Kamimoto. My violin has been repaired under Jon's skillful technique due to a crack on the body since I perform outdoors quite often. They have a large selection of violins and bows that in a big range of prices. I purchased one and I have no complains about it. The employees are as honest as they get, they're no ordinary people where they hire of the streets, they all have musical experience and I always find myself learning something new every time I go there. read more

I'm so disappointed with this place. My violin of 10 years has a buzz and this place is close to work. Jon could not diagnose it-which is totally fine, stuff happens and sometimes things can't be fixed. What is not fine is him telling me he thinks it's "okay." A consistent buzz and metallic sound on a G string when you are playing major concertos IS NOT OKAY. I don't know if he was dismissive because I had serious questions or concerns or maybe he thought I never needed to play on that string. He also told me I needed to lengthen my neck and raise my fingerboard-I've never had other prominent shops in the Bay Area make that recommendation and I certainly would not take any repair lightly from a single recommendation. I do not recommend this shop if you are beyond a certain level of musicianship. Maybe for intermediate or beginner instruments. Taking my business back to Joan Balter and Roland Feller. Two stars because the sales people are nice and they look well stocked.! read more

My daughter's violin teacher has been telling us to upgrade to the next size, since she's outgrowing her current violin. Came in to Kamimoto to get a second opinion, and try out the next size violin. Jim was very helpful in answering questions and demonstrating how to size a child for a violin. When he looked at my daughter's current violin, he went ahead and made some minor adjustments, then offered to clean out the case for us, at no charge. You could tell by watching him handle the instruments that he is in this business for the love of music and the instruments, not just to make a buck. I enjoyed meeting Jim and seeing his passion for the violin and for helping young musicians develop an appreciation for their tools of trade. read more

The shop is at times a little bit messy but it adds to that homey quaint mom-and-pop store feeling to it. Awesome for families to it and all the employees are extremely helpful and kind. I've been coming to Kamimoto's since I was a little kid and I can't imagine going to a different violin shop for my needs. Their prices are very fair particularly in respect to the repairs. String prices are a little painful but since they come from Europe they said they have little control over the prices. The boss is very reasonable and understanding. Plus, their repair work is absolutely superb. I had a rib crack repaired here a while back and when I got my violin back I couldn't even locate the crack! The boss, Jon Li is also an expert with bows and the bow rehairs are always done impeccably. I think if you want a one-hour service they're okay with it Monday-Friday as long as you call them before. The shop is also conveniently located in the SJ Japantown so you can go get your Japanese food fix if need be if you're getting something repaired. The Korean and Mexican restaurants there are also worth trying. read more

I've done business with Kamimoto Strings for over 20 years and have nothing but great things to say about the service and professionalism that I've witnessed and experienced there. I've purchased violins and also sold bows on consignment. I've also used their services for routine bow work, such as rehairs, as well as more extensive bow repairs. The quality of the work is on par with the best work that I've seen from violin shops in New York. read more

Fun store. A little hard to find since it is tucked in behind trees and you really can't see the sign. The woman helping me was very helpful and friendly. I will be back for a repair consult and will provide an update once that has been done. Otherwise, I do recommend coming in for your strings needs (music books, rosin, etc.). read more

When I used to come here and/or work here, I definitely enjoyed the family like atmosphere. It is a small, quaint, cozy blue/white house that houses more stringed instruments then one would imagine. The salespeople are very knowledgeable in regards to most or all the instruments in the shop and are willing to invest time to understand each customer's needs and preferences, as well as accommodate to their budget. I would say that this shop caters towards all students and many children who need excellent smaller sized instruments. The shop allows its customers to take a couple instruments home on a trial basis without charge for a week or two. I really like this policy because the tone of the instruments will always sound different at the shop and then at home. I also really like their rental policies. They have cheap rates, include deductibles in case the instruments are damaged, lost or stolen, and allow you to use the first 6 months of rental as credit towards a purchase from the shop. I would be weary of some of the instruments that are not towards the middle to high end since the quality control may not be the best. However, definitely come visit the shop and take your time in finding the right instrument. I used to tell customers that they should take their time because they are about to invest in an instrument upwards of $1000. I recommend this shop as well as others in the area such as Roland Feller, Ifshin's Scott Cao's and others. I recommend that people shop around before settling. Overall, solid shop with great salespeople and quality repairs. The shop many not be as professional as some others, but it comes with the territory and musical expression. = ) read more

I have been going to Kamimoto for my cello supplies and maintenance since 2005. Their brand of personal service has been top notch as far as I am concerned. In terms of string selection, instead of me taking my chances with a string choice, they would actually try different types of strings from their string "library" on my instrument until they found a set that I agreed to, then they would pull the same fresh strings from inventory for me to commit to. This is an amazing service in my book. Also, my cello fell from my back in a soft case onto the sidewalk. The resultant damage to the top plate was horrendous with two splits, one of which the wood tore laterally with the grain actually subducting under...you get the picture. I thought me cello was long gone, But Jim, the most wonderful repair guy, actually lifted and re-merged the wood very carefully. The resultant repair was so wonderful it brought tears to my eyes. And the cello sounded better than before!! Jim is an amazing, funny, wonderful guy. Jon Li, Judy, Nori (now gone...but an amazing player!!! 8-( ) all fabulous people. At other vioin stores, I feel like I'm just in their way. At Kamimoto, I feel like I'm home. Kamimoto is the best. T read more

Bought my cello here after renting. Great place, friendly knowledge staff that will help you not only buy the right instrument but also care for it. read more

After twenty years of not playing my violin, I suddenly had the urge to play again. But I knew even twenty years ago that my violin needed major repairs. So after some quick online research, I brought in my violin for repair. I felt very comfortable with Jon, who was knowledgeable, positive, and professional. A lot of work was done on my violin and bow (e.g., fixing the fingerboard, the sounding post, not-so-small scratches and chips, replacing the hair on the bow, etc.). The work took a week and the results exceeded my expectations. My violin never sounded so good. I'll definitely be getting a violin here for my 3-year-old, who's been asking for a violin of his own. Maybe in a year or two, kid. I promise. read more

If you are looking for a stringed instrument on the Peninsula, or in the South Bay, there are two places you need to go, and one of them is Kamimoto Strings. We were looking for a "full size" Viola. The Viola is much less standardized compared to Violins and there is a wide range of sizes, forms, etc. Kamimoto had 6 instruments in our price range, and a beautiful Ming Zhu that was more expensive. The 'house brand' instrument was well made, and easy enough to play. My daughter and her teacher both thought it would be a reasonable choice. I thought it also had a good price. I also had very good results with a school bass repair. At one point the neck broke (a hazard for basses). The original repair had the neck at the wrong angle and left an otherwise nice instrument unplayable. Kamimoto corrected everything for a reasonable price. I donated the repair to the school, and now she will have a nice instrument to play at school for the next two years. read more

A very nice little shop that is easy to miss if you don't recognize that it's a house. Each room is full of stringed instruments and the staff is incredibly helpful. Bought an upright bass fiddle stand there and our group has gone there to replace strings as well as make adjustments to the bass. Great service here and we will definitely buy our next bass here. update: we ended up replacing our upright bass with one from a half-bass. It has so far been excellent and the team there allowed us to make payments over a year. They also provide repair/service, and supplies. read more

I love coming here. They do a great job with repairs and rehairs. The turnaround time is pretty reasonable. The store carries lots of accessories string players need. If you park in the back lot you can walk through the actual workshop which to me is fascinating to see. read more

I bought my viola here a couple years ago and would return in a heartbeat if the occasion called for it. It's obvious these people care about their customers from the service they give, and they are happily rewarded with deserved loyalty. It's easy to miss when you're looking for it, but once you've done business with them, you'll certainly remember where it is for the inevitable return trip. read more

Anyone know how to get in contact with the owner? I've left a voicemail and messaged through their website. Tried to leave another voicemail now and their mailbox is full. Would like to cancel my rental before the next payment cycle. read more