Original Item: Only One Available. A hachimaki (鉢巻) is a Japanese headband, usually made of red or white cloth, typically featuring a design of kanji at the front. It is worn as a symbol of effort or courage by the wearer, especially by those in the military, or to simply keep sweat off one's face. During the WWII Period, these were worn by all manner of workers supporting the war effort, as well as by soldiers involved in it.

They were also famously worn by Japanese "Kamikaze" pilots during the war, which would often write inscriptions by hand before flying out. They are also period photographs of pilots that did not inscribe anything on their hachimaki before wearing them.

This example is of lightweight cotton canvas construction and measures approximately 33 inches x 12 inches when unfolded completely. It features the "Hinomaru (日の丸 or Circle of the Sun) in the center, surrounded by 久長 運武祈 (Name With “Good Luck”), both printed onto the fabric. It does not show much sign of use during the war, but is now age toned to a light beige, and shows light stains in areas.

This particular design was most likely used by factory workers during the war, however it is always possible that it was intended for Pilot Use, but never made it into service. There is unfortunately no way to tell. Regardless, it is still a great example of a WWII Japanese Hachimaki. Ready to display!