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Complete Guide

The Traditional Japanese Tea Tools and Teaware

Matcha Teaware

There are many tools required in the Japanese tea Ceremony, and we'll go through them one-by-one. Perhaps the two most essential items required to enjoy Matcha are a quality Chasen and a good Matcha-chawan that fits your needs. Read about them here.
Chasen

The chasen is the heart of matcha preparation. A hand-carved bamboo whisk is used to blend matcha powder and water into a smooth, frothy bowl.

Chawan

The chawan is the wide, deep bowl in which matcha is whisked and enjoyed. Its broad shape gives the chasen room to move freely. Choosing the right chawan is both a practical and personal decision.

Chashaku

The chashaku is a slender bamboo scoop used to measure matcha powder into the chawan. 

Loose-Leaf Teaware

Introducing some of the tools commonly used for loose leaf Japanese tea such as Sencha, or Genmaicha. Learn why you'd rather use the Kyusu or the Dobin as opposed to just a normal teapot. Learn how to use a Chazutsu to keep the fragile freshness of the leaves.
kyusu

The kyusu is a Japanese teapot designed specifically for brewing loose-leaf green teas. The dobin is its larger, more rustic cousin, perfect for brewing bigger batches of lighter teas like Hojicha or Genmaicha.

Chawan

Japanese teacups are typically small, handleless, and ceramic, designed to be cradled in both hands. Their modest size encourages slow, mindful sipping, and many are crafted to enhance the colour and aroma of the tea as it's poured.

Chazutsu Tea Caddie

The chazutsu is an airtight canister that protects loose-leaf tea from light, air, moisture, and odour. Traditionally made from tin, ceramic, or lacquered wood, it's essential for preserving the delicate flavours of high-quality Japanese teas between brewing sessions.

About the author:

Yuki Ishii

Founder & CEO of Tealife

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Yuki is the founder of Tealife, a Singapore-based Japanese tea company. He’s passionate about Japanese tea and spends his time testing, trying, and experimenting - then sharing what he learns through content to help people discover the depth of Japanese tea beyond just matcha.