This is a guide aimed at those advanced collectors that seek out Japanese WWII items that were owned by or signed by Japanese Generals or Admirals. I lived in Japan for 11 years and was fortunate enough to conduct my job on Japanese Self Defense force bases throughout Japan. there were many WWII and Pre-WWII General Officers and Admirals (also Reserve Generals & Admirals) that survived the war and went on to be the CEO's and Presidents of Japanese Corporations. Some of them were hanged, and other confined for many years to life. Finding these items is not easy. However, if you can develop friendships with influential or elderly folks (yes, especially the Old Ladies Associations) you can locate these treasure troves. It took many years to develop a network of finders who I remain in contact with (I visit Japan frequently) who have turned up some amazing finds, sometimes with information. Other times, these items are found when the old folks die off and younger generations ransack the tansus and back closets and are willing to sell them for a fast buck. As far as Signed go to war flags are concerned, there are plenty in existence, problem is that most people in Japan under the age of 60 have a hard time reading the old fashioned Kanji. It was a common occurance for Generals and Admirals to sign these flags for family members, neighbors, other Staff Officer families etc, as they departed for war. A flag signed by a high ranking officer carried with it much honor and admiration for any young officer or soldier going off to war. Although the Japanese lost the war, these officers made every effort to maintain their uniforms, hats, formal dress cases, etc for many decades and after they died, a family member continued to take care of these mementos. The only item that seems to be extremely hard to pry away from these families is Swords. These are extremely valuable anywhere in Japan and are considered real family heirlooms. When they come up at Estate Auctions in Japan they start out at very high opening bids. Other items, such as boots, clothing etc, are moderately priced and can be had by the Japanese buyers. Flea markets are another source, but it takes lots of digging to find a good item there.