Sawada Tomohiro Tokoname-yaki 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 is handleless, which forces you to hold the vessel directly, helping you gauge the temperature of the tea before pouring.

Because this houhin is designed for brewing delicate green teas at lower temperatures—typically between 120°F and 160°F—the clay remains comfortable to hold. You simply grip the sides of the vessel with your fingers, which also allows you to feel the warmth and ensure the tea is at the ideal temperature.

No, the metallic glaze is purely aesthetic and does not impart any flavor to the tea. The interior of the teapot is made from high-quality Tokoname-yaki clay, which is prized for its ability to enhance the natural flavor profile of green tea leaves.

The integrated sasame filter is highly effective for fine-leaf Japanese teas. Because it is built directly into the clay body of the spout, it provides a precise, clean pour that prevents leaves from entering your cup without the need for a separate metal mesh strainer.

This houhin has a capacity of 160 milliliters, which is perfectly sized for brewing one to two small, concentrated cups of tea. It is intended for multiple short infusions rather than brewing a large volume of tea at once.

Rinse the teapot with warm water after each 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 the metallic glaze requires gentle handling to maintain its finish.