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Brand profile · Japan, est. 1946

Sankyo

Sankyo is a highly respected Japanese flute manufacturer renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and exceptional tonal quality. Established in the mid-20th century, the brand has cultivated a reputation for producing instruments favored by professional and serious amateur flutists seeking a refined playing experience. Sankyo’s commitment to traditional techniques combined with innovative design has solidified its place among the world’s leading flute makers.

Handmade RBE modelsExcellent intonation across registersInnovative headjoint designsSuperior keywork mechanicsHigh-quality silver and gold alloys
1946founded
Japancountry
12products in stock
$2,930–$11kprice range

Sankyo in the charts

Every chart where Sankyo has five or more models — ranked by the AudioFu Index inside each.

Best Sankyo open hole flutes
8 models$2,930 – $10,958

All 12 Sankyo products

Sorted by AudioFu Index — the strongest models of every category first.

Sankyo CF 201 Flute RBE

Open Hole Flutes

$3,194€2,850Check ↗

Sankyo CF 301 Flute RBE

Open Hole Flutes

$5,144€4,590Check ↗

Sankyo CF 301 Flute RE

Open Hole Flutes

$4,816€4,298Check ↗

Sankyo CF 201 Flute RE

Open Hole Flutes

$2,930€2,615Check ↗

Sankyo CF 401 Flute RBE

Open Hole Flutes

$6,935€6,189Check ↗

Sankyo CF 401 Flute RBE

Open Hole Flutes

$6,935€6,189Check ↗

Sankyo CF 501 Handmade RBE

Open Hole Flutes

$8,963€7,998Check ↗

Sankyo CF 401 Flute

Closed Hole Flutes

$6,487€5,789Check ↗

Sankyo CF 501 Handmade

Closed Hole Flutes

$8,235€7,349Check ↗

Sankyo CF 601 RBE Handmade

Open Hole Flutes

$10,958€9,779Check ↗

Sankyo CF 301 Flute

Closed Hole Flutes

$4,695€4,190Check ↗

Sankyo CF 201 Flute

Closed Hole Flutes

$2,930€2,615Check ↗

Sankyo, honestly

What Sankyo does well
  • Exceptional tone and projection
  • Remarkable consistency in manufacturing
  • Responsive and reliable keywork
  • Beautiful, refined aesthetics
  • Excellent resale value
What to watch for
  • Premium-priced, limiting accessibility
  • Limited availability outside of specialist dealers
  • Can be overly bright for some players’ preferences
  • Customization options are limited
  • Requires a skilled technician for maintenance

Questions about Sankyo

Where are Sankyo instruments made?

Sankyo flutes are primarily manufactured in Japan, with a focus on handcrafting techniques within their facilities. While some component sourcing may occur elsewhere, the final assembly and finishing are done in Japan.

What is the significance of the 'RBE' designation in Sankyo flute models?

’RBE’ designates a handmade flute, meticulously crafted by a master artisan, signifying a higher level of detail and refinement compared to non-RBE models.

Are Sankyo flutes suitable for students or are they geared towards professionals?

While Sankyo instruments are exceptional, their complex mechanics and premium-priced nature typically make them more appropriate for advanced students and professional players.

 Check price ↗