okapi Kimura

Fingerstyle Guitarist, Composer & Arranger

okapi Kimura is a Japanese fingerstyle guitarist, composer, and arranger, known for creating rich, orchestral soundscapes on a single acoustic guitar by seamlessly combining rhythm, harmony, and melody.

His music blends refined technique with expressive storytelling, aiming to gently resonate with listeners’ hearts. Audiences around the world have described his performances as “hard to believe it’s only one guitar,” “cinematic,” “deeply moving,” and “healing.”

Based in Japan, okapi has performed extensively throughout Asia and Europe, including China, South Korea, Malaysia, Germany, Finland, Poland, and Lithuania. He has appeared as a featured solo artist at concerts and festivals, and has also served as a judge for fingerstyle guitar competitions in China.

Through his international performances, he has built lasting friendships and musical collaborations with artists around the world. His original compositions have been widely covered by young fingerstyle guitarists, particularly in South Korea, where his music continues to inspire the next generation of players.

In 2022, his guitar performance was featured in the JR Central commercial campaign “So da, Kyoto, Ikou.” (Kennin-ji Temple Edition). His music has also been used by NHK Kitami Broadcasting Station, and he continues to compose and arrange music for artists and media projects in Japan and abroad.

okapi has performed at The NAMM Show in Los Angeles and actively promotes Japanese fingerstyle guitar on the international stage through concerts, workshops, and judging activities. He is currently a D’Addario Artist.

While his performances are known for their emotional depth, audiences are often surprised by his warm personality and humorous stage presence. The contrast between heartfelt music and engaging conversation has become one of the defining features of his live performances, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and memorable.