A golden eagle locked in harmony with a Japanese dragon fills the back of this black and ivory Hoshihime sukajan, framed by embroidered Japan and Yokosuka lettering. The pairing is one of the most recognizable motifs in souvenir-jacket history: East meeting West, rendered as wearable textile art.
The Piece
Born from the crossroads of Japanese craftsmanship and international military culture, the sukajan became one of Japan's most recognizable fashion exports. The back of this jacket carries that legacy directly: a majestic golden eagle with extended wings, a Japanese dragon wrapped beneath, and the classic script lettering "Japan" and "Yokosuka", reflecting the roots of the souvenir jackets made around postwar Yokosuka.
The eagle stands for courage, freedom, victory and strength, and for the Western military influence that shaped early Yokosuka jackets; the dragon, drawn from Japanese and East Asian mythology, for protection, wisdom, power and harmony with nature. Together they form a balanced image of opposing forces united, a visual conversation between two worlds.
On the front, symmetrical white dragon heads are embroidered across the chest, while further dragons flow along the ivory-white satin sleeves. Traditional Japanese dragons are guardian figures, and their long bodies suit sleeve construction naturally, giving the jacket a full 360-degree artwork. The deep black body against ivory sleeves creates a timeless monochrome palette in which the embroidery stands out like a traditional tattoo, and which is easier to style than more colorful souvenir jackets.
The jacket appears consistent with a modern Japanese sukajan revival piece, following classic souvenir-jacket language within a contemporary wearable silhouette.
Details
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Maker: Hoshihime (Star Princess)
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Era: Modern Japanese sukajan revival
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Material: Smooth satin-style fabric (polyester); embroidered textile; rib knit; zipper closure
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Color: Black body with ivory-white satin sleeves
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Size: M (marked); suits approximately a modern unisex M to slim L depending on preferred fit and layering
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Measurements: Length 65 cm · Chest width 52 cm · Sleeve length 82 cm · Shoulder width 55 cm · Sleeve width 47 cm (approximate)
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Construction: Zip-up raglan bomber, reversible; ribbed striped collar, cuffs and waistband; front zipper; embroidered front, back and sleeves
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Motifs: Golden eagle with extended wings; Japanese dragon; "Japan" script; "Yokosuka" lettering; white dragon heads at chest; sleeve dragons
Condition
- Good pre-owned condition with normal signs of previous use; the embroidery remains the main highlight and displays beautifully.
- The satin may show natural wrinkles from storage and handling.
- Minor age-related characteristics consistent with a previously owned collectible garment may exist.
- Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
Authenticity & Care
Size marked M. The Hoshihime attribution follows the product name; the label itself is not described. 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.
Yokosuka Archive
A particular size, motif or decade in mind? Postwar souvenir jackets and heritage amekaji surface in Japan one at a time. Name the maker, the embroidery and the chest measurement, and the Hunting Salon™ watches for it on your behalf. Request a jacket search →
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