Tokoname Ware
Tokoname is a town located in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. It has been a hub for pottery and stoneware production since the 12th century. Kiln innovations in the 1800s resulted in the earthenware that Tokoname is famous for. The thermodynamic property of iron-rich Tokoname clay is perfect for steeping Japan green teas, but also works well for white tea.
Kyusu simply translates to teapot. Typically, they come in two different styles: yokode and ushirode. Most people associate kyusu with the yokode style, which is recognizable by its side-mounted handle. Ushirode look more like Chinese or European teapots, with the standard handle. Both types are designed to give the tea preparer control over the pouring process, resulting in a deeply flavored, often savory cup of tea.
Our Black Kyusu is a yokode-style pot that has a 5 oz capacity, making it perfect for single servings of sencha. The black color comes from a special firing process that turns the red clay black without special glazes. It has a small, fine mesh screen (easily removed for cleaning) that covers the spout to strain all different leaf sizes. The mesh works with a variety of different tea styles to ensure smooth pouring without an overabundance of leaf in the cup.
Our 400ml Red Kyusu is also yokode-style, and produces a 12 oz serving. It is the classic iron color that Tokoname is known for. Similar to the Black Kyusu, the screen, located in the spout, can be removed for cleaning, and works well with a wide variety of Japanese green tea styles.
Our Black Cooling Pitcher was also produced in the Tokoname kilns using the same firing process as the Black Kyusu to create its dark color. It is the perfect vessel for cooling water to preferred temperatures for Japanese green teas. It can also be used as a pitcher for decanting and serving the steeped tea.