Tokoname’s pottery roots trace back to the Heian period (794–1185 CE), when the region’s smooth, iron-rich clay began shaping everyday vessels. By the Kamakura period (1185–1333 CE), Tokoname ware was widely used across Japan.

In the late Edo period (1603–1868 CE), the city introduced large-scale climbing kilns—the most advanced of their time. These kilns enabled the efficient firing of ceramic pipes and refined red clay teapots, laying the foundation for the Tokoname ware we know today.

One of Tokoname’s defining features is its local clay, sourced from the Chita Peninsula. Rich in iron, this high-quality clay is used to create the unglazed red surface known as shudei. By firing the clay to draw out its natural red hue—a technique developed over centuries—artisans create ceramics with a soft texture and warm, earthy tone.

The clay’s density allows it to be fired at relatively lower temperatures, and even without glaze, Tokoname ware remains water-resistant—unusual for earthenware. Over time, the surface of unglazed shudei teapots gains subtle depth and luster, making each one more beautiful with use.

Tokoname’s iconic shudei teapots have been refined over generations. Their warm, earthen hue comes from high-temperature firing of local iron-rich clay, left unglazed to preserve its natural texture. This porous surface softens bitterness in green tea, creating a rounder, smoother taste. Every teapot is hand-thrown, with precise attention to how the lid fits, how the tea pours, and how the flavor develops.

• Perfect Lid Fit
  Hand-thrown on the wheel, each lid is made to align precisely with the body, ensuring excellent heat retention.
• Unglazed Earthen Body
  Fired without glaze, the porous clay softens bitterness in green tea, creating a mellow, rounded flavor.
• Strainer Options
  Traditional sasame and ceramesh strainers are made from the same clay as the teapot and built into it, with tiny holes ideal for sencha and gyokuro. Some modern teapots use stainless-steel strainers for everyday convenience.
• Sharp Spout
  Carefully shaped for a precise pour, the spout’s angle also helps prevent drips.

Join us for a studio visit to Gyokko Toen, where Tokoname ware teapots are shaped with precision, patience, and purpose. Using the potter’s wheel, Umehara Hirotaka forms each of the five essential parts—body, handle, spout, strainer, and lid—removing anything unnecessary to create a piece that is both functional and refined. The red clay, rich in iron, undergoes subtle changes in the kiln, and over time, the oils from use give each teapot a natural, lasting shine.

At Gyokko Toen, the focus is on consistency, innovation, and doing only what’s truly needed. The result is teaware that reflects years of care and a deep respect for tradition. This is the quiet philosophy that keeps the flame of Tokoname ware alive—one teapot at a time.