A New Japanese Luxury Line of Premium Suitcases from Proteca

PROTECA introduces the J5 Collection:

A Japan Luxury Line Showcasing the Pinnacle of Japanese Craftsmanship

ACE Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Shibuya, Tokyo / President: Hiroaki Morishita) proudly launches the J5 Collection, a new luxury line from its Japan-made travel bag brand Proteca. This line introduces three sophisticated suitcase models: SHISUI, SHISUI-F, and INRYU—all designed for discerning luxury travelers in Japan and beyond.

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■ About the J5 Collection

The J5 Collection embodies the spirit of JAPAN LUXURY, created through meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to high quality and functionality.
Its design reflects the understated beauty of traditional Japanese aesthetics with refined minimalism, complemented by comprehensive aftercare that provides users with peace of mind.
The collection offers a one-of-a-kind experience, born from Japan’s unique sensibilities and attention to detail.

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■ DESIGN

Minimal, innovative, and beautifully simple—these suitcases feature advanced design techniques such as flush surfaces, often found in industrial design.
They express a distinctly Japanese sense of elegance through a sleek, modern silhouette.

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■ FUNCTION

Each suitcase is made in Japan under rigorous quality control standards. From a lightweight and robust magnesium frame to uniquely developed dual-wheel casters, every model is packed with features to enhance both durability and travel comfort.

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■ WARRANTY

The J5 Collection offers an upgraded warranty plan:

・Free repairs for 10 years, with no limit on repair claims.

・Airline damage is also covered, ensuring a level of support that inspires true confidence.

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■ About the Products

SHISUI & SHISUI-F
Inspired by traditional Japanese “bunkobako” (lacquered document boxes), the design features soft, flowing curves reminiscent of surface tension in water.

INRYU
Drawing inspiration from “inro”, hand-carved cases made from a single piece of wood, the cylindrical shape rises gently with organic grace.

Shell finishes are carefully selected to complement the body colors—ranging from mirror-like gloss to leather-, wood-, or metal-inspired textures—highlighting the richness of each hue.

These elegant suitcases are also equipped with signature double-wheel casters and various proprietary innovations that enhance both travel safety and user comfort.

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■ About MADE IN JAPAN

All PROTECA suitcases are made at the Akabira Factory in Hokkaido—a site known for its strict quality standards and the meticulous skill of Japanese artisans.
Since 1964, ACE has been at the forefront of suitcase production in Japan, accumulating over half a century of expertise and innovation.

At the Akabira Factory, each suitcase is hand-assembled in small, elite batches and individually inspected.
Although this results in lower production efficiency than overseas factories, the defect rate remains significantly lower—proof of the exceptional quality.

The factory also houses the ACE Technology Institute (ATI), which performs rigorous testing across eight categories, from durability and shock resistance to mobility and environmental resilience.

In terms of craftsmanship, many PROTECA suitcases feature urethane-padded interior linings that are carefully hand-fitted—rather than stitched with a machine like conventional products—requiring advanced artisan skills.

For the frame, Proteca uses magnesium alloy, a material commonly used in racing car wheels for its superior strength and lightness.
It resists warping at room temperature, but working with magnesium demands highly precise temperature and angle control—only achievable with advanced techniques.

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■ About Proteca

Launched in 2004, Proteca is ACE’s flagship Japan-made travel bag brand.
Each suitcase is crafted under rigorous quality control at the Akabira Factory and comes with Proteca’s hallmark feature:

“Proteca Premium Care” – a 3-year, unlimited free repair warranty that even covers airline damage.
The J5 Collection enhances this guarantee further with an extended 10-year coverage, offering travelers the ultimate in reliability and peace of mind.

Photo courtesy of @aerastylemagazine