3 Types of Japanese Teapots (Kyusu)

Japanese teapots come in three main shapes and are also known as kyusus. The teapot handles make each style distinctive and add a new dimension to the art of brewing and pouring tea. The teapots are created mainly in the Mie, Gifu, Aichi, and Niigata prefectures. Within these prefectures, Iwachu and Tokoname are some of the most prolific brass tea set cost

Famous teapots include the Banko teapot, Arita Yaki, Onko, Mumyoi Yaki, and Tokoname Yaki, which derive their names from the clay and regions where they are created. The type of clay used in their construction also distinguishes the teapots. For example, Banko teapots are typically made with purple clay while Tokoname varieties are made of red clay.

Yokode Kyusu (Side-Handle Teapot)

A Yokode kyusu features a handle that juts directly out from the side of the teapot. It sports a narrow handle at the edge of the rounded teapot and becomes more bulbous shaped towards the free end. The spout is located at a 90-degree angle from the handle. The teapot allows the tea drinker to hold the handle and place their thumb on the lid to pour using one hand.

Uwade Kyusu (Top-Handle Teapot)

An Uwade kyusu features a distinct handle located directly at the top of the pot. The handle is usually made of a different material from the rest of the pot. For example, if the pot is porcelain, the handle may be made of bamboo, plastic, or rattan. The handle stays cool since it is attached to the teapot using metal hooks. The handle style also makes this teapot a good choice for people who are left-handed. This teapot is round and stout like the Yokode kyusu.

Ushirode Kyusu (Back-Handle Teapot)

The Ushirode kyusu draws inspiration from classic Chinese teapots. It features a handle directly opposite of the tea spout. These teapots feature a lid that helps to seal in flavor and moisture during steeping. This type of Japanese teapot should be used to brew Chinese and British teas.