Discover the art of Japanese tea cups

Sipping tea from a beautifully crafted porcelain cup isn’t just a practice for royalty, it’s a timeless tradition embraced across cultures. In Japan, tea cups are more than just vessels; they are an essential part of the tea-drinking experience.

The art of tea drinking in Japan

In Japan, tea drinking has evolved into a refined ritual, with specialized cups known as chawan. These cups come in various materials and designs, carefully chosen based on the type of tea and the desired drinking experience.

• Small cups are preferred for premium teas like gyokuro to enhance their delicate flavors.
• Shallow cups are commonly used for sencha to allow the tea to cool quickly.
• Tall cups are ideal for hojicha, helping retain warmth.
• Glass cups are often used for cold tea in summer, showcasing the tea’s vibrant colors.

Many tea lovers in Japan favor white interiors in their cups to fully appreciate the color and clarity of their tea. The height and depth of the cup also impact brewing time and temperature, making Japanese tea cups a crucial part of the overall tea experience.

Three main types of Japanese tea cups

1. Yunomi – The everyday tea cup

Yunomi are the most common Japanese tea cups used for daily tea drinking. Unlike Western teacups, they have no handles and are typically cylindrical. They come in various materials, including ceramic, porcelain, and glass, but never cast iron.

2. Chawan – The matcha bowl

For the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, matcha is prepared and served in a chawan, a wide, deep bowl that allows for whisking with a chasen (bamboo whisk). The bowl’s shape enhances the aroma and texture of the matcha.

3. Gyokuro cups – Designed for premium green tea

Gyokuro, a high-grade Japanese green tea, is best enjoyed in small, specialized cups that concentrate its aroma and flavor. These cups allow tea enthusiasts to savor each sip slowly.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why don’t Japanese tea cups have handles?

Japanese tea cups are handle-less because if the cup is too hot to hold, the tea is too hot to drink. This design helps prevent burns and encourages mindful sipping.

2. Why are Japanese tea cups so small?

Japanese green tea is meant to be enjoyed slowly and in small amounts to avoid stomach discomfort. Smaller cups also help maintain the right temperature for sipping.

3. How many ounces are in a Japanese tea cup?

Most Japanese tea cups hold 1 to 4 oz (30–120 ml), depending on the type of tea they are designed for.

4. Why is matcha served in a bowl?

The matcha bowl allows for:

• Proper whisking with a chasen to achieve a smooth, frothy texture.
• A fuller sensory experience, as drinkers can smell and taste the matcha simultaneously.

5. What is a "chawan"?

A chawan is a tea bowl used in daily life and traditional tea ceremonies in Japan. It is an essential part of matcha preparation.

Explore our Japanese tea cup collection

Looking for the perfect tea cup? Our tea cups collection offers a wide selection of handcrafted cups, ideal for personal use or as a thoughtful gift. Discover exquisite Japanese teaware and experience the elegance of traditional tea culture.