Introduction
It’s time to enjoy your tea the way it was meant to be!
The Japanese Tokoname-yaki teapots are a real game changer for any tea lover. These handcrafted marvels, shaped from a unique type of clay, offer a mellow, superbly delicious tea experience. Plus, the renowned Japanese craftsmanship that goes into each teapot turns them into visually stunning decorative masterpieces—definitely worthy of a spot in your tea collection!
Centuries of Refined Craftsmanship in Tokoname
Image source: ZenPlus
From the historic city of Tokoname in Aichi, Japan, comes the renowned Tokoname ware (常滑焼, Tokoname-yaki), a type of Japanese pottery known for its premium quality and aesthetically pleasing designs.
Originating in the 12th century, this traditional Japanese pottery saw massive growth since the Heian period (794-1185), establishing Tokoname as the leader in pottery production among the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan.
The sought-after Tokoname-yaki continues to thrive in the modern age, appealing to those who value exceptional quality and craftsmanship. This tradition is preserved by many, including the renowned third-generation potter Yamada Jōzan III and his son, Yamada Jōzan IV, who assumed his father's title following his death.
Not Your Average Teapot!
Tokoname tea pot Demonstration to make Japanese Sencha green tea
Tokoname-yaki teapots are highly sought after by tea enthusiasts for several reasons. First and foremost, the exceptional quality of the clay used in Tokoname pottery is a key factor. This clay is sourced directly from the Chita Peninsula, known for its rich, mineral-heavy soil that contributes to the superior characteristics of the pottery.
The Kyusu teapots are especially revered by green tea lovers for the exceptional taste they impart to the brew, making each sip even more delightful (imagine that!). The iron content in Tokoname clay is known to mellow the tea’s astringency and boost its smoothness.
Moreover, these teapots double as decorative art pieces. Their unique shape, intricate design details, and rich colors make them a standout addition to any teapot collection (feel free to show them off to your guests!).
6 Types of Tokoname Teapots to Collect
While the rustic, unglazed brick-red kyusu is immediately associated with Tokoname-yaki, Tokoname is also home to other types of clays, designs, and finishes that go into crafting its renowned teaware.
Below are the different types of Tokoname-yaki teapots, sure to ignite the collecting instinct in every tea lover!
- Shudei (Vermilion Clay): Known for its dynamic range from scarlet to gentle orange-red, shudei clay is remarkable not just for its color. The iron within the clay is what produces its striking red tone when fired in an oxidizing atmosphere. This clay is also famous for enhancing the flavor of tea, making it a favorite among tea enthusiasts.
- Ryokudei (Green Clay): Imagine brewing green tea in a gorgeous green teapot! This clay is mixed with cobalt to achieve a vivid green color when fired in oxidation, offering colors that can range from subtle grey greens to deep forest greens.
- Kokudei (Black Clay): Available as dyed black or naturally turned black through reduction firing, Kokudei is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate some mysterious vibes in their teaware.
- Yakishime (Rough Unglazed Stoneware): Known for its earthy, rough texture, Yakishime showcases natural beauty and unique kiln effects.
- Nerikomi (Kneaded Technique): More of a technique than a clay type, Nerikomi involves kneading different colored clays together to create stunning marbled patterns. Think of it as the pottery world's version of making a marble cake!
- Koudei (Yellow Clay): On the rarer side, Koudei is available in soft ivory colors and vivid yellows, adding a bright, cheerful touch to any tea setting.
The City Even Produces Cats!
Tokonyan, a tourist attraction in Tokoname, Japan
While Tokoname has earned global acclaim for its premium quality teapots, the city's artisanal reach extends far beyond; it also produces other artistic treasures like wind chimes, shochu servers, matcha bowls, and tea incense burners.
In addition to these traditional items, Tokoname's industrial production includes modern necessities like toilet seats, roof tiles, and water pipelines. Antique bonsai pots from Tokoname are highly prized as collector's items and continue to be crafted today.
An interesting fact about Tokoname is that it's a leading producer of lucky cats. The maneki-neko (招き猫, literally 'beckoning cat') is a popular Japanese figurine widely believed to bring good luck to its owner.
Tokoname-yaki lucky cat available at ZenPlus
The adorable waving maneki-neko became a celebrated specialty of Tokoname by the 1950s, positioning the city as Japan’s leading producer of the maneki-neko.
With their large eyes and perky ears on round, plump bodies, these Japanese figurines are both cute and a valuable addition to any collection (whether you believe in luck or not!).
Where to Find Authentic Tokoname-Yaki Ware
Tokoname-yaki sakura teapot available at ZenPlus
If you're in Japan, discovering Tokoname-yaki ware and teapots might require a bit of research and exploration through local shops. However, if you're outside Japan or simply prefer a more convenient shopping experience, you can turn to online shopping.
Over 3,000 local Japanese retailers have partnered with the online platform ZenPlus, offering international shoppers access to an impressive array of over 5 million Japanese items.
This massive selection includes everything from premium Tokoname-yaki teapots to authentic Japanese green tea and even matcha sets to complete your tea-drinking experience.
The ZenPlus ordering system eliminates the usual hassles of shopping from Japan—simply choose your favorite Japanese products, add them to your cart, and place your order. A dedicated team of professionals carefully handles and packages your items, ensuring they arrive at your doorstep quickly and in pristine condition.
Imagine sipping Japanese tea while draped in a beautifully detailed kimono, surrounded by Japan's awe-inspiring natural beauty—just the thought of it is incredibly healing!
About The Writer
Meet Mariam - a freelance writer whose heart beats for the captivating world of Japanese culture. She's fascinated by the breathtaking cherry blossom trees, the irresistible traditional dishes and snacks, the timeless fashion, the adorable natural makeup, and of course, the world-famous anime, just to name a few of her passions. Now, with boundless creativity and determination, she aims to deliver the most valuable content for readers to offer them a glimpse into her passions in life.
