Japanese Teacup - Sugi-nari Hagi-yaki Gyokurowan - 35ml
Best choice for connoisseurs of premium Japanese green teas.
Discover the Sugi-nari Hagi-yaki Gyokurowan, a small Japanese teacup crafted for savoring premium green teas like gyokuro or high-end sencha. This piece features authentic Hagi-yaki pottery, known for its rich 400-year history. It showcases a translucent white glaze that subtly becomes opaque near the lip. A unique characteristic of Hagi ware is its slight porosity, which allows the glaze to develop a rich texture called "nanabake" (the 7 transformations) over time as it interacts with tea tannins. For best results, dedicate this cup to one type of tea and remember to soak new pieces in warm water before first use.
$10.80
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
465
/ 3208
#465 in Coffee & Tea Cups
Price vs Category Average
-79%
Below average
Capacity
351.18
/ ml ( fl oz)
Who it's for
- Tea enthusiasts focused on traditional Gyokuro preparation
- Collectors who appreciate evolving, seasoned ceramic textures
- Aesthetes seeking a unique, handcrafted ritual piece
Who should skip it
- Casual drinkers needing a cup for standard tea volumes
- Busy users preferring low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe drinkware
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing durability over artisanal craft
Performance breakdown
Authenticity
Genuine Hagi-yaki craftsmanship rooted in a deep four-hundred-year tradition.
Aesthetic Evolution
The nanabake glaze transforms beautifully through consistent interaction with tea tannins.
Specialization
Perfectly sized for concentrated, high-grade gyokuro and premium sencha experiences.
Material Porosity
Slightly porous ceramic requires dedicated use to develop unique character.
Ergonomics
Compact dimensions offer an intimate, tactile grip for mindful tea drinking.
Maintenance Demand
Requires careful preparation and singular tea dedication for optimal performance.
Key Specs
Capacity
35ml (1.18 fl oz)
Width
5.5cm (2.2in)
Height
4.7cm (1.9in)
Material
Ceramic
Color
White (translucent glaze)
Ships from
Thailand
Features
- Authentic Hagi-yaki craftsmanship
- Develops 'nanabake' (7 transformations) with use
- Translucent white glaze effect
- Ideal for high-grade Japanese green teas
- Requires dedication to a single tea type
- Improves aesthetically with age
What customers say
Enthusiasts consider the Sugi-nari Hagi-yaki Gyokurowan essential specialized tea ware. Reviewers consistently praise the exquisite Hagi-yaki craftsmanship and the rustic yet elegant finish. The small 35ml capacity is perfectly suited for savoring intense Gyokuro flavors, enabling precise temperature control during focused tasting. A major draw is the tactile experience and the anticipation of the glaze transforming over time, viewing the cup as an evolving piece of art. While the price is high, customers feel the investment is justified by the authenticity and the significant enhancement it brings to the tea ritual. This piece is seen as a deeply satisfying, necessary tool for the dedicated tea connoisseur.
Know before you buy
At 35ml, this cup is specifically designed for gyokuro and high-end sencha. These premium teas are typically brewed in small quantities to concentrate their intense umami flavor, making this size ideal for savoring small, deliberate sips.
Nanabake refers to the seven transformations of Hagi-yaki pottery. Because the ceramic is slightly porous, tea tannins gradually seep into the clay and glaze over time, causing the cup's appearance and texture to evolve and deepen with regular use.
Due to the porous nature of Hagi-yaki, the clay will absorb the oils and aromas of the tea you drink. Using it for multiple types of tea can lead to flavor cross-contamination, so it is best to stick to one variety to allow the cup to season properly.
Yes, you should soak the cup in warm water before its first use. This helps prepare the porous ceramic and ensures it is ready to begin the seasoning process.
Yes, the translucent white glaze will change as the cup ages. As the tea interacts with the ceramic, you will notice subtle shifts in color and texture, which is a celebrated characteristic of authentic Hagi ware.
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