Prince Shokai is a long-established custom sukajan shop on Dobuita Street in Yokosuka. Founded in 1947, it belongs to the commercial landscape that grew around the U.S. naval base during the early postwar period.
Why Prince Shokai matters
Many modern sukajan are factory-made reproductions or fashion interpretations. Prince Shokai represents another side of the culture: a local shop where customers choose a body and design for a made-to-order embroidered jacket.
Its importance is not simply that it sells an old style. The shop connects present-day visitors with Dobuita Street’s history as a place where American servicemen bought customised souvenirs.
Details associated with Prince Shokai jackets
Examples are often embroidered with YOKOSUKA across the upper back rather than the more common JAPAN. Many are single-sided rather than reversible, with silver-coloured quilted lining and padding. The signature By prince co may appear near the lower back, although older garments do not always follow the same formula.
Alongside dragons, tigers and eagles, the shop has produced floral designs and less common imagery. The rich, dense floral embroidery is especially recognisable.
Ordering and visiting
Prince Shokai has traditionally focused on in-person custom orders rather than ordinary online retail. Lead times, prices and whether new orders are being accepted can change, so visitors should confirm current conditions directly before travelling.
Second-hand examples also appear in Japanese resale markets. A signature, design language and body construction can help with identification, but they should be considered together. A single embroidered phrase is not a complete authentication method.
Location
Prince Shokai is on Dobuita Street in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. See the Dobuita Street directory for current local information.
Store hours, ordering policy and lead times may change. This article documents the shop’s place in sukajan culture and is not a guarantee of current availability.