EVISU Yamane Biwako Black Velvet Sukajan, Embroidered Bomber with Dragon, Pagoda and Map Motifs, Size 38

A black velvet souvenir jacket from the Yamane line of EVISU, its back given over to Biwako artwork: a large portrait motif, dragon, pagoda, landscape and map-style embroidery naming Japanese places. White thread on deep velvet gives the piece a restrained, almost nocturnal elegance among sukajan.

The Piece

This EVISU Yamane velvet sukajan turns the traditional souvenir jacket into a visual tapestry of Japanese identity, combining regional symbolism, embroidery and the rebellious spirit of Yokosuka-inspired souvenir jackets. Its elegant black velvet body carries the atmosphere of Japanese nightlife and vintage Americana, and represents the artistic direction that took EVISU beyond denim into Japanese fashion collectibles and archive streetwear.

The back is the centerpiece: a large embroidered portrait motif with "Yamane" and "Biwako" lettering, Japanese regional references, dragon and landscape embroidery, pagoda imagery and map-style embroidery incorporating Japanese locations, reflecting Yamane's fascination with Japanese geography, culture and storytelling through clothing. Biwako is the Japanese name of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake. The front is balanced with an embroidered anchor and floral emblem and a cat-inspired character, worked in contrasting white embroidery against the deep black velvet, and the sleeves carry large vertical calligraphy-inspired embroidery, the dramatic silhouette associated with premium sukajan.

The velvet gives deep black coloration, a soft texture, rich light reflection and a presence at once formal and rebellious; velvet sukajan are among the most visually dramatic variations of the souvenir-jacket family. The restrained monochrome palette reads as more sophisticated than many colorful traditional designs, and the embroidery behaves almost like a wearable painting, each section contributing to the narrative.

Designer Hidehiko Yamane took EVISU beyond denim into a wider world of Japanese fashion, drawing on traditional motifs, ukiyo-e inspired imagery, vintage American influences, embroidery craftsmanship and playful cultural references, and the Yamane line is especially valued by collectors of unusual, artistic Japanese garments. The sukajan itself began in postwar Japan as an exchange between American military personnel and Japanese artisans, then passed through Yokosuka street fashion, rockabilly, bosozoku styling and Harajuku into contemporary luxury streetwear. This jacket also has a history of its own: it was previously used for fashion shoots and editorial presentation.

Details

• Maker: EVISU
• Model: Biwako / Yamane Japan motif
• Line / Series: Yamane
• Origin: Made in China (as indicated on label)
• Material: Velvet outer shell; nylon, polyester; embroidery thread; rib knit; metal zipper
• Color: Black velvet with white embroidery
• Size: 38 (manufacturer's size); approximately Japanese men's S–M depending on desired fit
• Measurements: Height 56 cm · Width (pit to pit) 48 cm · Sleeve length top 66 cm · Sleeve length bottom 51 cm (approximate); model shown approx. 5'2"
• Construction: Zip-front bomber
• Motifs: Back: portrait motif, Yamane and Biwako lettering, dragon, landscape, pagoda, map of Japanese locations. Front: anchor and floral emblem, cat-inspired character. Sleeves: vertical calligraphy-inspired embroidery

Condition

• Pre-owned; previously used for fashion shoots and editorial presentation.
• Possible minor signs of previous use, including small marks, light dirt or staining and natural wear from handling.
• The photographs form part of the condition description.

Authenticity & Care

Label indicates Made in China; EVISU Yamane line, Biwako design. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.

Delivery from Japan

Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.

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