Kuramoto Masao Tokusa Houhin

A Houhin is a traditional Japanese teapot designed without a handle, specifically intended for brewing high-quality green teas like Gyokuro or Sencha. Because you hold the vessel directly, it encourages you to be more mindful of the water temperature, ensuring you don't burn the delicate tea leaves.

This capacity is ideal for a single serving or two small cups of concentrated, high-quality tea. It is not intended for brewing large pots of tea to be shared among a group, but rather for savoring the nuances of a specific brew.

The grooved spout is designed to act as a built-in filter, helping to catch tea leaves while allowing the liquid to flow smoothly. It provides a controlled, steady pour that prevents splashing and ensures you get every drop of tea into your cup.

Yes, the delicate gilding should be treated with care to maintain its luster. We recommend hand-washing this piece with a soft sponge and mild detergent, avoiding abrasive scrubbers or the dishwasher, which can wear down the gold accents over time.

Since this Houhin is designed for Japanese green teas, which are typically brewed at lower temperatures (around 140°F to 160°F), the porcelain will be warm but comfortable to handle. If you prefer brewing black or herbal teas at boiling temperatures, you may find the vessel too hot to hold without a cloth.