Japanese Souvenir Jacket

This is probably the most memorable jacket I own.  It is a 1950's Japanese souvenir jacket, a true piece of art. 

I lived in Japan in the late 90's for saveral years.  I had a friend there who was the manager at a vintage clothe store.  I was at that store almost everyday after work, for that was like my oasis in a foreign country.
I met most of my Japanese friends there.  We could always get together talk about fashion for hours.  I have so many good memories about that store.
Anyway, that was where I found the jacket.  It was not for sale at first.  But I fell in love with it, and I knew that I was going back to the US eventually, so I would have to get it.  It took me about 6months to convince my friend to let me have the jacket, and I was really glad when I finally got it.

 This is work of art!  Back in 50's those jackets were very populer among US soldiers as for souvenirs from far east.  Japanese tatoo artists drew the sketches, and the embroiderers did all the quality needle work.  It is 100% hand made, and that makes each jacket so special.

I still keep in touch with that friend, and I think can of him and all the good friends whenever I wear this jacket.  I am very thankful for what they did for me while I was staying  in Japan.
Unfortunately, that vintage clothes store got closed down last year, but all the good memories remain in my heart forever.