About our Japanese teapots and tea sets

Let us help you discover the perfect teapot or tea set for your needs!

Types of Japanese teapots

Teapots of all kinds are crafted across Japan, each with its own unique style and purpose. From traditional clay and porcelain to rustic earthenware and whimsical designs, there is a teapot for every taste. With endless varieties to choose from, exploring them can become a delightful journey. While some tea enthusiasts may have preferences for specific styles depending on the type of tea, ultimately, the choice is a personal one.

Kyusu

Kyusu (急須) is a traditional Japanese teapot commonly used for brewing green tea. While many associate kyusu with side handles, the term "kyusu" simply refers to "teapot," and these teapots can come with or without side handles.

Yokode Kyusu features a side handle, making it easy to pour out every last drop of tea. This is the most common style found in Japan and comes in a range of prices, from affordable everyday options to collector's pieces. Tokoname and Banko teapots are some of the most renowned examples of yokode kyusu.

Ushirode Kyusu has the handle placed at the back, similar to Western teapots. These are ideal for those familiar with Western-style teapots and are often favored for their ease of use by both right- and left-handed individuals. Arita porcelain teapots are highly regarded for their quality and traditional Japanese design, characterized by the classic blue-and-white contrast.

Dobin

The Dobin teapot is the second most common teapot in Japan, after the yokode kyusu. Its handle, typically made of bamboo, rattan, or plastic, remains cool even when the pot is hot. These teapots, made from porcelain or clay, are perfect for everyday use. Historically, the term "dobin" referred to heat-resistant pots used for boiling water or brewing medicinal herbs. Today, the dobin is often included in traditional Japanese tea sets.

Tetsubin

Tetsubin (鉄瓶) are Japanese cast iron teapots originally designed for boiling water. As the art of tea drinking grew in popularity during the 19th century, tetsubin evolved into symbols of status and sophistication. Iwate and Yamagata prefectures are known for producing the finest tetsubin, which are often sought after by collectors. These teapots can hold anywhere from 0.5 to 5 liters of water and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

Japanese cast iron teapots are prized for their ability to infuse tea with iron, which is beneficial for health. Tetsubin often feature intricate relief designs and are traditionally heated over charcoal in a brazier called a binkake. These teapots may come with a ceramic insert and mesh strainer for practical use.

Cold infusion bottles

Cold infusion bottles are perfect for creating refreshing, healthy cold green tea during the hot summer months. Simply fill with water and tea leaves and let the flavors gently infuse.

Teapot strainers

Types of tea strainers:

Removable tea strainer: This type of strainer is easy to clean and allows you to remove the tea leaves once brewing is complete, preventing over-extraction. While they offer convenience, they do limit the brewing space compared to fixed strainers, which may affect the tea’s flavor. Some tea lovers prefer teapots with built-in ceramic strainers for a more refined taste when brewing delicate teas.

Fixed tea strainer: Built directly into the teapot, these strainers allow tea leaves more room to move, leading to better brewing. The holes in the strainer vary in size depending on the period in which the teapot was made. Some fixed strainers use metal mesh, which can be difficult to clean, while others use ceramic mesh, which is more porous and may result in small tea particles slipping through. Fixed strainers are typically preferred by those who enjoy a stronger brew.