Tokoname-Yaki Kyusu Teapot, Tenmoku Finish - Shoryu - 340ml

Name: Tokoname-Yaki Kyusu Teapot, Tenmoku Finish - Shoryu - 340ml
Brand: Artisanal Japan
Price: 189.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Tokoname-Yaki Kyusu Teapot, Tenmoku Finish - Shoryu - 340ml

$189.00

Included: 1x Kyusu teapot

Shoryu Kiln

Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

Tokoname clay | Tenmoku oil drop finish

Kyusu teapot | 340ml

About Tokoname-Yaki Kyusu Teapot, Tenmoku Finish - Shoryu - 340ml

This handcrafted Tokoname kyusu by Shoryu Kiln features the kiln’s signature tenmoku oil drop finish, known for its deep, atmospheric surface and organic patterning. The rounded form is compact and well balanced, designed for comfortable daily use while maintaining a strong sculptural presence.

The surface reveals layered tones of charcoal, iron grey, and warm reddish undertones that shift subtly with light. These natural variations are the result of firing and material interaction rather than applied decoration, giving each piece a quiet complexity and individuality. The lid fits cleanly and securely, and the spout is shaped for a smooth, controlled pour.

Rooted in Tokoname’s long tradition of functional teaware, this kyusu reflects a philosophy of restraint and precision—where form, surface, and performance are carefully aligned. It is well suited for sencha, kukicha, and other Japanese green teas, offering both daily practicality and visual depth.

Details

Origin: Tokoname, Japan
Kiln: Shoryu (Shoji Umehara)
Form: Side-handle kyusu
Capacity: approx. 340 ml
Includes: Teapot with lid

Teaware Care

Japanese teaware is made to be used and enjoyed. With simple, consistent care, your kyusu, shiboridashi, hōhin, yunomi, and matcha ware can age beautifully over many years.

In most cases, the best approach is also the simplest: clean soon after use, use warm water, and allow every piece to dry completely before storing.

Everyday Care

After each tea session, remove the leaves and rinse your teaware as soon as possible. Letting wet leaves or tea sit for too long can lead to odors, staining, and moisture problems, especially in unglazed clay or more porous glazed wares.

For routine cleaning, warm water and a gentle hand rinse are usually enough.

Once rinsed, allow the piece to dry fully before storing it. This matters most for kyusu, shiboridashi, hōhin, and porous chawan, where moisture can linger in spouts, lids, filters, and clay bodies. Wiping with a clean cloth is fine, but air-drying is still important, especially for more absorbent wares.

What to Avoid

Avoid soap, bleach, harsh cleaners, and abrasive scrubbers on most handmade teaware.

This is especially important for unglazed interiors and porous glazes, which can absorb residues and affect the character of future brews. Dishwashers are also best avoided for most handcrafted teaware, as heat, detergents, and vibration can be hard on delicate or handmade pieces.

Unglazed Clay

Unglazed clay teapots and brewing vessels should generally be cleaned with water only. These clays can interact subtly with water and tea, and they may absorb soap or lingering aromas.

Tea stains in unglazed kyusu are not necessarily a problem. A gentle patina is often a natural part of regular use and can become part of the piece’s character over time.

Porous Glazes

More porous glazed wares need slightly more attention. Pieces with porous glazes can absorb moisture and slowly develop character through use.

Because of that porosity, these wares should be rinsed promptly after use and dried thoroughly. Soap is best avoided, since it can seep into the clay or glaze.

Kyusu Tips

Cleaning all of the leaves out of a kyusu can sometimes be difficult, especially with narrow openings or built-in filters.

A useful method is to fill the pot with water, swirl it gently to loosen the leaves, and pour them out. If small leaves cling to the filter, use a soft brush such as an old toothbrush very gently, then rinse again through the spout to ensure it is clear.

Storage

Store teaware only when completely dry. Trapped moisture can lead to mold or stale smells. For more absorbent pieces, give them extra air-drying time before putting them away in cupboards or boxes.