Japanese Kyusu Iwase Kōji Black Red Yōhen Tokoname Teapot
Best artisanal teapot for tea enthusiasts seeking a smoother, refined brew.
Experience the artistry of Japanese tea with this exquisite Kyusu teapot from Iwase Kōji, a master craftsman with over six decades of experience. Crafted from authentic Tokoname shudei clay, known for its ability to mellow tea's astringency, this teapot showcases a stunning 'yōhen' effect—unique color gradients born from special firing techniques. Its design features a practical wide lid for easy cleaning and leaf viewing, alongside an integrated ceramic filter for a perfectly strained brew. This teapot is a testament to traditional Japanese pottery, offering both functional elegance and a unique aesthetic.
$168.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
95
/ 3127
#95 in Coffee Servers & Tea Pots
Price vs Category Average
-17%
Below average
Capacity
250
/ ml
Who it's for
- Green tea enthusiasts seeking deeper umami and smoother flavor profiles
- Collectors valuing one-of-a-kind artisan craftsmanship in their kitchenware
- Tea drinkers requiring precise control for delicate, multi-steep brewing
Who should skip it
- Busy households needing durable, chip-resistant teapots for daily use
- Casual users wanting low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe brewing equipment
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for affordable, mass-produced teaware
Performance breakdown
Flavor Enhancement
Tokoname shudei clay effectively mellows astringency for a smoother tea profile.
Filtration Precision
Integrated ceramic debeso filter ensures a clean pour without sediment.
Maintenance Ease
Wide lid opening simplifies leaf removal and thorough interior cleaning.
Artisanal Craftsmanship
Master-level firing techniques create a distinct and beautiful yōhen finish.
Ergonomic Handling
Traditional side-handle design offers precise control during the pouring process.
Capacity Suitability
Ideal 250ml volume perfectly serves one or two tea enthusiasts.
Key Specs
Capacity
250 ml
Material
Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
Width
16 cm (6.3 in) (including handle)
Height
9 cm (3.5 in)
Made in Japan
Filter Type
Built-in ceramic debeso filter
Includes infuser
True
Server Type
Tea Pot
Features
- Reduces tea astringency with shudei clay
- Unique, one-of-a-kind yōhen gradient
- Built-in ceramic debeso filter
- Wide lid opening for easy cleaning
- Masterfully crafted by a seasoned artisan
- Enhances natural tea flavor
- Modern design aesthetic
What customers say
This Japanese Kyusu is celebrated as a functional art piece, highly valued for its unparalleled craftsmanship and aesthetic beauty. Reviewers consistently praise the deep, complex black and red coloration resulting from the unique Yōhen kiln variation, noting its superior appearance in person. Functionally, the teapot earns top marks for its effortless, precise pour, aided by the highly effective built in ceramic filter that prevents clogging. While positioned as a premium artisanal item, customers agree the investment is justified by the heirloom quality and superior brewing experience. It successfully appeals to both serious tea enthusiasts and collectors seeking authenticity and mastery.
Know before you buy
Tokoname shudei clay is prized for its high iron content, which reacts with the tannins in tea to reduce astringency. This process naturally mellows the flavor, resulting in a smoother, more balanced cup.
Yōhen refers to the unique color gradients created during the firing process. Because each piece reacts differently to the kiln's atmosphere, every teapot features a one-of-a-kind finish, meaning your specific teapot will have its own distinct color variations.
Yes, the integrated ceramic debeso filter is designed to strain tea effectively while allowing the leaves to expand fully. It is particularly well-suited for Japanese green teas like Sencha or Fukamushi, which often have smaller leaf particles.
The wide lid is specifically designed for easy access, allowing you to reach inside with a soft sponge or cloth to remove spent tea leaves. We recommend rinsing it with warm water after each use and letting it air dry completely.
With a 250 ml capacity, this teapot is perfectly sized for one to two people. It is ideal for enjoying multiple short infusions of high-quality loose-leaf tea.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.