How much might I save (if anything) if I purchase a flute such as a Muramatsu or a Miyazawa IN JAPAN rather than from their American companies or an American dealer?

I thing that some of the models for sale in Japan might be slightly different (with different numbers/names) from their counterparts abroad. Is that true?

Any info or suggestions will be welcome! Thanks...

The main thing is that open hole flutes are really only popular in US. In Japan, you will find very high quality plateau flutes. That said, if you can find a Muramatsu or Miyazawa plateau flute in the US, it probably will sell for pretty cheap.

Well, I would purchase the flute in Japan myself and play it while living in Asia. Then I would carry it back to the U.S. with me when I return.

It appears that the pricing might not be radically different. I'll report when I learn something!

Thanks to all...

I have no idea if this would be an issue for a flute, but there could be customs/import duty taxes involved. But again, I have no clue on that, just putting it out there.

Yes that is correct. There will be.