Tokoname ware teapot that makes tea taste delicious 

There are many factors that go into making a good tea. You can think of the type and grade of tea leaves, how to brew them, and the water. However, what we are less aware of is the teapot, which is indispensable for brewing tea. 

In this article, we will introduce Japanese teapots(kyusu) made of Tokoname ware, a traditional Japanese craft that makes tea more delicious.

Secrets of Tokoname ware teapot made of vermilion clay 

What do you think makes tea brewed in a Tokoname ware teapot so delicious? 

It's the material. 

The reddish-brown teapot typical of Tokoname ware is made of a clay called "vermilion clay. 

This clay is rich in iron, which reacts with tannin, a component of tea, to reduce astringency and bitterness. In addition, the inner surface of the teapot is porous and easily absorbs tannin, reducing bitterness and astringency. 

In other words, the tea becomes smooth and flavorful. 

Pottery fired with this clay without glaze is also called "vermilion clay". 

Various Tokoname ware teapot with vermillion clay 

Takumi Japan also carries Tokoname ware vermilion clay teapots, and we would like to introduce a few of them to you. 

First, a piece carved with plum blossoms. The pattern of the lid and the body match each other nicely. The capacity is 210 ml, so it is quite a small teapot. 

Kyusu teapot with wooden box, Vermilion clay, Plum blossom carving, No.12 - Shunen

Next is a work with characters written on the surface of the teapot. The "Rokkasen" in the title of the work refers to the six poets whose names are written in the preface to "Kokin Wakashu" (The Anthology of Ancient and Modern Japanese Poetry). On this teapot are waka poems written by these six poets and the names of the poets. 

Kyusu teapot with wooden box, Vermilion clay, Diagonal line, Rokkasen, No.14 - Reiko

Here is the last teapot. Is it blackish even though it is made of vermillion clay? You must be wondering, "Why is it black? This color is due to the fact that it is made by firing vermilion clay quenching firing followed by reduction smoking firing. The fact that it is porous and has a high iron content remains unchanged, making it a delicious tea beverage.

Kyusu teapot, Black kiln-change, Fuku shape Purple scarf - Ukou-kiln

Enjoy your tea time with a teapot made of vermillion clay

If you pay attention to the tea leaves, the brewing method, and everything else, you can make it taste even better, but that's a bit of a hurdle, isn't it? But it is easy if you just use a teapot made of vermillion clay. 

By simply changing your teapot, you will be able to drink more delicious tea than ever before.

If you search for the keyword "vermilion clay" on the Takumi Japan website, you will see works. Please have a look at vermilion clay teapots. 

Takumi Japan
https://japantakumi.com/