Sawada Tomohiro Houhin Teapot

A Houhin is a traditional Japanese teapot designed specifically for brewing high-quality green teas like Gyokuro or Sencha at lower temperatures. Unlike standard teapots, it lacks a handle, requiring you to hold the vessel directly by its sides, which encourages a more mindful and tactile brewing experience.

The teapot features small, shell-shaped ears on the sides that provide a secure grip for your fingers. Because Houhin are intended for lower-temperature brewing—typically between 140°F and 160°F—the clay remains comfortable to hold while you pour.

The sasame filter is a ceramic mesh integrated directly into the clay body of the pot. It is highly effective at straining fine tea leaves without clogging, ensuring a smooth pour and preventing sediment from ending up in your cup.

While it is optimized for Japanese green teas, you can certainly use it for other loose-leaf teas. Keep in mind that its 150ml capacity is quite small, making it best suited for concentrated, multiple-steeping sessions rather than large-volume brewing.

Rinse the teapot with warm water immediately after use and allow it to air dry completely with the lid off. Avoid using soap or abrasive scrubbers, as the porous nature of the clay can absorb scents and residue over time.