Kokudei Kushime Yōhen Tokoname Teapot
Best artisanal teapot for solo tea enthusiasts seeking precise, traditional brewing.
This 100ml Tokoname-yaki kyusu (teapot) from Gyokko Kiln is crafted from kokudei clay, fired to achieve a unique black finish with bronze and brown gradients due to the 'yōhen' kiln effect. It features a subtle combed pattern ('kushime') and a built-in ceramic 'sasame' filter, designed for efficient straining and fast pouring. Ideal for solo sencha sessions or gong fu brewing, this handmade teapot offers a classic aesthetic and functional design. Its compact size makes it perfect for precise brewing, enhancing the tea experience with its artisanal quality and unique visual appeal.
$88.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
7
/ 3081
#7 in Coffee Servers & Tea Pots
Price vs Category Average
-57%
Below average
Material
Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
/ Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
Who it's for
- Green tea enthusiasts seeking a smoother, sweeter flavor profile
- Collectors who value unique, artisanal pieces with evolving character
- Tea drinkers prioritizing ergonomic design and traditional Japanese craftsmanship
Who should skip it
- Casual drinkers who prefer switching between different tea varieties
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for an affordable, everyday teapot
- Users needing durable, low-maintenance kitchenware for busy households
Performance breakdown
Filtration Efficiency
The integrated sasame ceramic filter ensures a clean, sediment-free pour.
Pour Precision
Designed for controlled, steady pouring essential for delicate sencha brewing.
Artisanal Craftsmanship
Hand-thrown Tokoname-yaki quality reflects centuries of Japanese ceramic tradition.
Thermal Retention
Dense clay body maintains stable temperatures for consistent tea extraction.
Ergonomic Handling
Compact dimensions and balanced weight make single-handed pouring effortless.
Cleaning Ease
Wide opening allows for simple rinsing, though the filter requires care.
Key Specs
Material
Tokoname-yaki Ceramics
Capacity
100 ml
Dimensions
Width: 11.2 cm (4.4 in) (including handle), Height: 6.4 cm (2.5 in)
Origin
Made in Japan
Filter
Built-in ceramic sasame filter
Features
- Unique 'yōhen' kiln effect creates a distinctive bronze/brown to black gradient.
- Subtle 'kushime' combed pattern adds artisanal detail.
- Built-in 'sasame' ceramic filter for natural and efficient tea straining.
- Wide filter shape allows for faster pouring and reduces clogging.
- Compact 100ml capacity is ideal for single servings or precise brewing.
- Handmade by master potters at the respected Gyokko Kiln.
- Tokoname-yaki ceramic known for its quality and traditional craftsmanship.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Kokudei Kushime Yōhen Tokoname Teapot by Gyokko Kiln for its exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive design. Reviewers frequently highlight the teapot's superior quality, noting the exquisite feel of the clay and the unique Yōhen kiln effects that make each piece special. The precise pour and comfortable handling also receive high marks, underscoring its thoughtful functionality. This teapot is celebrated not just as a brewing vessel but as a beautiful, enduring work of art.
Know before you buy
The sasame filter is integrated directly into the clay body, which prevents the metallic aftertaste sometimes associated with stainless steel mesh. Because it is ceramic, it is also highly durable and less prone to rusting or warping over time.
This teapot is specifically designed for single-serving sessions or gong fu style brewing. It is ideal for high-quality loose leaf teas like sencha or gyokuro where you want precise control over water-to-leaf ratios.
Because the yōhen effect is created by natural chemical reactions within the kiln, each piece will have slight variations in its bronze and brown gradients. This means your teapot will be a one-of-a-kind item with its own unique color distribution.
Rinse the teapot with hot 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 clay can absorb these scents and affect the flavor of future brews.
While the kushime pattern is primarily an aesthetic detail that highlights the craftsmanship of the Gyokko Kiln, it also provides a subtle tactile grip when handling the pot. It adds a refined, artisanal texture that distinguishes it from smooth-surfaced teapots.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.