Sukajan, or souvenir jackets, originated in Japan during the post-WW2 occupation, popular amongst American GIs to bring home as souvenirs - hence the name. The jackets were styled after baseball/varsity jackets, colourful and often reversible, and made of rayon, silk or sometimes the remnants of parachute capes. Soldiers had various designs handstitched onto their jackets, usually a blend of Japanese and American cultural themes, often approximating tattoo designs in style. Vintage sukajan are highly sought after.
This beauty is dated to between 1948 and 1953 and is fully reversible. One side features a blue and silver body, quilted patch pockets, with embroidered tiger and dragon on front. The back is embroidered with gold, silver and pink map of Japan, including Mount Fuji and a dragon in the water below the mainland.
The reverse side is a maroon and yellow body, embroidered tiger and dragon on chest, and large eagle/hawk-eagle embroidered on back.
Foam-backed quilted silk/rayon construction, with striped red white & blue rib knit cuffs and hem. Raglan sleeves. Handmade in Japan.
Missing Zipper pull. Some wear in the sleeves/neck that can be mended for free with purchase if requested.
Flat Measurements:
Armpit to Armpit: 20“
Shoulder to Shoulder: ~18“ (raglan sleeves)
Sleeve Length: 30“ from neck (raglan sleeves)
Total Length: 24“
Head to our Sizing Guide to see if this will fit you.
*Please note, all of our items are vintage and used and will naturally have some wear. We think it all just adds to the piece’s charm. We’ll always do our best to properly document any obvious imperfections.
**Colors may vary slightly between photos on screen and actual piece.