Tokoname-yaki Shudei | 500cc | With Ceramic Mesh Strainer | Produced in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture
**[The Thousand-Year Flame of Tokoname — The Shudei Teapot that Defines Japanese Tea] Tokoname-yaki Shudei Teapot 500cc | Made in Japan**
**■ Product Features**Tokoname-yaki is one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns located in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture—a ceramic tradition that has kept its flames burning for over a thousand years. The most renowned works produced in Tokoname are Shudei (vermilion clay) teapots. Molded from unique red clay extracted from deep beneath the Chita Peninsula, the deep vermilion surface is created through high-temperature firing. This is the quintessential teapot that Japanese tea masters have loved for centuries.
"Shudei" contains natural iron compounds, which are said to interact beneficially with the tannins in Japanese green tea to mellow the bitterness. Furthermore, due to the natural porosity of the clay, the tea components soak in the more you use it, allowing it to become a "growing teapot."
The "Poko-ami" attached to the spout is a characteristic of Tokoname teapots—this strainer, featuring a series of fine holes in the clay, carefully filters even fine tea leaves to achieve a clean tea infusion free of impurities.
The large 500cc size is ideal for serving two to three people. It is also suitable for those who wish to enjoy plenty of tea over a long period.
**■ Recommended For*** Authentic Japanese tea enthusiasts who understand the essence of enjoying tea with clay-fired teapots.* Japanese pottery collectors who wish to own a piece of living ceramic history.* Those seeking a teapot that "grows" and improves the more it is used.* Tea ceremony practitioners who seek the philosophy of Wabi-sabi in their teaware.* Those looking for a meaningful, quintessentially Japanese gift for a tea-loving friend.
**■ Contents**1 Tokoname-yaki Shudei Teapot (Capacity: 500cc) with ceramic Poko-ami strainer, produced in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture.
**■ Main Components/Materials**High-temperature fired Tokoname Shudei clay from the Chita Peninsula, Aichi Prefecture; ceramic Poko-ami strainer in the spout; precision-fitted Shudei lid.
**■ How to Use*** Before the first use, brew a batch of inexpensive green tea once and discard it, then allow the pot to dry.* Place tea leaves directly into the body of the teapot.* For Sencha, pour water at 70–80°C.* Steep the first infusion for 45–60 seconds. You can enjoy 2–3 infusions from the same leaves.* Once brewed, pour every last drop into the cup.* After use, rinse with water only.* Store only after it has dried completely with the lid removed.
**■ Precautions*** Never use detergents or soaps.* Rinse with water only after use.* Allow to dry completely—do not close the lid while the interior is damp.* Do not place in a microwave or on any heating appliances.* With regular use, the clay will gradually develop a deeper color—this is a normal and desirable change.
**■ Shipping**Authentic products purchased through official channels in Japan will be delivered worldwide from our Japanese warehouse. Guaranteed authentic products shipped directly from Japan for your peace of mind.* The displayed price includes shipping costs from our shop to the domestic Japanese warehouse.