Kokudei Inka Tokoname Kyusu by Tamamitsu (~200ml)

A kyusu is a Japanese teapot with a side handle, designed for brewing Japanese leaf tea. The handle placement makes it easy to pour in short bursts, helping tea leaves mix evenly. This one has a fine ceramic mesh filter (ceramesh) that strains leaves well while keeping good water flow.

The deep black color comes from kokudei clay: iron-rich Tokoname clay fired in reduction, where limited oxygen in the kiln transforms it from red to black. Like red shudei clay, kokudei is said to interact with tannins in tea, softening bitterness for a smoother cup.

Vermillion floral motifs dot the body and lid, made using inka (印花), a stamping technique with roots in Korean mishima pottery. Each flower is pressed into the soft clay with a small ceramic stamp, then filled with red slip.

The Tamamitsu Touen workshop (also called Gyokko) in Tokoname was founded in 1945 and is now led by second-generation Tamamitsu, Hirotaka Umehara. He was certified as a Traditional Craftsman by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in 1994.

At roughly 200ml (measured at 80% full), this pot works well for one to three servings through multiple infusions.

Before first use, soak in warm water (60-80°C) for 30-60 minutes. After brewing, rinse with hot water and let it dry completely with the lid off. No soap or detergent—the clay absorbs them.

Details

• Capacity: ~200ml / 6.8 oz (at 80% full)
• Clay: Kokudei (black Tokoname clay), unglazed
• Decoration: Inka (stamped floral motifs)
• Filter: Ceramesh (ceramic mesh)
• Origin: Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
• Workshop: Tamamitsu Touen (Gyokko)

Each piece may vary slightly in appearance from the photo. Product color may also vary slightly due to photographic lighting or monitor settings.