WW2 Imperial Japanese Army Sakazuki Sake Cup – 36th Infantry Regiment, Fukuoka Garrison – Victory Commemoration This is an original World War II-era Imperial Japanese Army sake cup (sakazuki), crafted to commemorate military service and likely given as a farewell or celebratory gift to a departing soldier. The interior is decorated with a prominent five-pointed army star flanked by gilt kanji inscriptions that read “祈武運長久” (“Prayers for Everlasting Luck in Battle”) and “歩兵第三十六連隊” (“36th Infantry Regiment”), indicating the soldier’s unit. The regiment was garrisoned in Fukuoka, a key military hub in Kyushu, and played roles in both China and Southeast Asia during the early stages of the Pacific War. This cup exemplifies the long-standing tradition of personalized military giftware in Japan. These small porcelain cups were typically given by fellow soldiers, commanding officers, or family members to mark occasions such as enlistment, deployment, safe return, or retirement. The underside of the cup is hand-marked with the family name 田中 (Tanaka), identifying the recipient or possibly the donor. The 36th Infantry Regiment was part of the 24th Division, which had earlier service in China before being transferred to Taiwan and ultimately engaged in defensive operations in the Philippines in 1944–45. Units like the 36th were frequently honored with such commemorative items, reflecting the close bond between local identity, military service, and national duty. This sake cup serves as a poignant artifact of wartime Japan—a personal and tangible relic of the soldiers who served across the empire’s far-flung battlefronts. Its pristine enamel, crisp gold detailing, and legible hand-painted inscriptions offer collectors and historians alike a rare window into the social and ceremonial culture of the Imperial Japanese Army. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
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