Why We Love It

This Tokoname Teapot Set by Ukou features a kyusu teapot (12oz/360ml) and two teacups in a classic Tokoname red hue. The teapot and the teacups are made of red Tokoname clay. The inside of the teacups is painted in sumi-e style white brush to appreciate the color of the tea.

The teapot is equipped with an obi chakoshi (belt strainer): a stainless-steel net covering the inner circumference of the teapot. The tea leaves have room to spread in hot water, enhancing the original taste and aroma of the tea. The flow is smooth and not obstructed by tea leaves when pouring. This fine mesh net is excellent for use with very fine tea leaves, such as deep-steamed tea (fukamushi sencha).

This teapot is suitable for any types of tea. Sencha (middle- to high-grade green tea) and kariganecha (high-grade stem tea) are especially recommended.

Why Choose a Teapot from Tokoname

Tokoname teapots and teacups are lightweight, resistant, smooth, and particularly easy to use. Green tea enthusiasts swear by the taste that Tokoname clay imparts to the tea. It is said that the iron contained in Tokoname clay softens the astringency and adds roundness to Japanese green tea. Moreover, Tokoname teapots take on a patina over time: the tea brewed in these kyusu gains in quality. Each teapot is fired with its lid placed on. Consequently, the lids are extremely airtight.

Tokoname-yaki ware is produced in the area around the town of Tokoname, in Aichi prefecture, and is one of the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan. Tokoname is the center of teapot production in Japan: nowadays, there are numerous kilns in activity, with artisans still pursuing traditional techniques.

This teapot and teacup set is handcrafted by Ukou kiln, which has been making tea ware since 1972. Their obi chakoshi (belt strainer) was patented in 1987. In recent years, the kiln has received several awards including the coveted Omotenashi Selection.

Caring For Your Kyusu Teapot

After use, the tea set should be rinsed thoroughly with hot water, which will help it to dry faster. Store the teapot in a well-ventilated area, and do not replace the lid before the inside is completely dry. Pay attention to the interior of the spout, which remains wet for a long time.

Details

• Kyusu Teapot and two teacups
• Handmade in Japan
• Free gift-wrapping in Japanese furoshiki cloth
• As each handmade product is unique, there may be small differences in size, color and pattern from the photographs above.
• Teapot: ⌀ 3.9” (10cm), width 5.9” (15cm), height 3” (7.5cm), capacity 12oz (360ml)
• Teacups: ⌀ 3.5” (9cm), height 2.2” (5.5cm)
• Code : 94701BR