Matsugawa Kokudei Tokoname Teapot
Best artisan teapot for tea enthusiasts seeking authentic Japanese craftsmanship.
Experience the artistry of Japanese teaware with the Matsugawa Kokudei Tokoname Teapot, handcrafted by third-generation potter Tatsuo Umehara. This kyusu features a unique kokudei (black clay) body, achieved through specialized reduction firing, and a distinctive 'matsugawa' pine bark texture. The spout's 'shudashi' style reveals a vibrant vermillion accent, showcasing the rich Tokoname-yaki tradition. Equipped with a built-in ceramic sasame filter, it ensures fast, clog-free pouring for an exceptional tea-brewing experience.
$98.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
7
/ 3045
#7 in Coffee Servers & Tea Pots
Price vs Category Average
-52%
Below average
Material
Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
/ Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
Who it's for
- Tea enthusiasts seeking deeper flavor profiles from Japanese green teas
- Collectors valuing master-level craftsmanship and functional art
- Brewers prioritizing a precise, drip-free pouring experience
Who should skip it
- People needing a durable, worry-free piece for daily handling
- Casual drinkers looking for an affordable, everyday teapot
- Users wanting a low-maintenance vessel for multiple tea varieties
Performance breakdown
Filtration Efficiency
The integrated ceramic sasame filter prevents clogs even with fine-leaf teas.
Pour Precision
The spout design offers a clean, controlled stream without messy drips.
Thermal Retention
Dense Tokoname clay provides excellent heat stability for delicate green teas.
Ergonomic Handling
The side-handle kyusu design allows for comfortable, one-handed pouring.
Artisan Craftsmanship
Hand-applied pine bark texture showcases master-level traditional Japanese ceramic techniques.
Lid Seal Integrity
Precision-fitted lid ensures minimal heat loss during the steeping process.
Key Specs
Material
Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
Capacity
300 ml (10.14 oz)
Width
15.4 cm (6.1 in) (including handle)
Height
7.9 cm (3.1 in)
Color
Black (Kokudei) with vermillion accents
Filter Type
Built-in ceramic sasame
Origin
Made in Japan
Includes Infuser
True
Features
- Artisan-crafted Tokoname-yaki kyusu
- Unique kokudei black clay
- Matsugawa pine bark textured body
- Shudashi vermillion rim accent
- Built-in ceramic sasame filter
- Fast, clog-resistant pouring
- Excellent lid seal
- 300ml capacity
What customers say
Enthusiasts deeply admire this Hokuryū teapot for its exquisite craftsmanship and superior brewing performance. Reviewers consistently praise the perfect balance and the precision of the lid fit, noting the flawless, smooth pour. The hand-carved Matsugawa pattern adds significant aesthetic value to the daily tea ritual. A key highlight is the unglazed black clay's ability to enhance flavor. Users report that the clay softens water and rounds out bitterness, resulting in a noticeably smoother, richer brew, especially with Sencha. While premium priced, connoisseurs view this functional art as a worthwhile, cherished investment that deepens appreciation for traditional pottery. Satisfaction centers on the master artisan's skill and the teapot's exceptional quality.
Know before you buy
The built-in ceramic sasame filter is integrated directly into the clay body, which prevents the metallic aftertaste sometimes associated with stainless steel mesh. It is precision-engineered to allow for a fast, clog-free pour while effectively straining fine tea leaves.
Rinse the teapot with warm water after each use and allow it to air dry completely with the lid off. Avoid using soap or detergents, as the porous nature of the unglazed clay can absorb scents and chemicals that may affect the flavor of future brews.
The 300ml capacity is ideal for serving one to two people, depending on the size of your tea cups. It is perfectly sized for traditional gongfu-style brewing or for enjoying a concentrated session of high-quality loose-leaf tea.
Tokoname-yaki clay is known for its mineral composition, which can subtly soften the water and round out the tannins in tea. Because this pot is unglazed, it will gradually 'season' over time, making it best suited for a single category of tea, such as sencha or roasted green teas.
The pine bark-inspired texture provides a tactile, secure grip when pouring. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the uneven surface makes the teapot easier to hold firmly, even when the exterior is warm.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.