Hello.
I’m Masaharu Yokoyama, owner of Kotopotter. Welcome to our world of traditional, handmade Kyoto ceramics.
The tea ceremony is a tradition deeply embedded in Japanese culture.
A matcha bowl is not merely a tool—it’s an exquisite work of art that embodies the spirit of the tea ceremony. These beautifully crafted, handmade ceramics showcase the finest Japan pottery and are designed to enhance your tea experience.
However, their refined formality can sometimes feel intimidating, and the wide variety available may leave you unsure where to start.
As a seasoned ceramics specialist, I’ve guided many in choosing the perfect matcha bowl, and I usually advise the following:
- For formal tea ceremonies or training sessions, follow the guidance of your tea tradition.
- For casual, everyday use, simply choose the one that speaks to you.
In formal settings, certain schools of tea have strict protocols, and bowls that do not conform may not be used. On the other hand, if you love the taste of matcha and wish to incorporate it into your daily life, feel free to choose whichever bowl appeals to you.
Whether it’s elegant, cute, stylish, or reasonably priced, the best choice is the one that captures your intuition. In this guide, we’ll explain key points for selecting a matcha bowl for everyday use.
1. Differences in Matcha Bowl Shapes
Matcha bowls come in various shapes designed for ease of use and seasonal appeal. Each style is best suited to particular seasons and uses, so consider these points when choosing your perfect bowl.
Bowl Shape (Wannar Style)
- Features: A classic design that fits comfortably in your hand.
- Seasonal Suitability: Perfect for year-round enjoyment.
- Ease of Use: Allows for smooth whisking with your tea whisk.
- Key Point: Highly versatile and ideal for everyday use.
Cylindrical Shape (Tsutsunari Style)
- Features: Tall design with a deep visual appeal.
- Seasonal Suitability: Ideal for winter, as it offers excellent heat retention.
- Ease of Use: May require some practice, as the tea whisk moves less freely.
- Key Point: Perfect for those who enjoy a slow, contemplative tea experience in colder weather.
Flat Shape (Hirannari Style)
- Features: A wide rim and shallow design.
- Seasonal Suitability: Ideal for summer as it prevents excessive heat retention.
- Ease of Use: Facilitates smooth movement of the tea whisk for effortless use.
- Key Point: Perfect for enjoying a refreshing tea experience on hot days.
While matcha bowls are largely divided into these three types, there are many other styles—such as iron bowls, half-cylinders, and batarai—that offer unique benefits. In general, deeper bowls retain heat longer but may require more practice to master, whereas flatter bowls cool quickly.
2. Types and Features of Ceramic Matcha Bowls
The appearance and functionality of a matcha bowl also vary depending on the type of ceramic or pottery used, each carrying its own traditional charm.
Temmoku Tea Bowl
Originating from the Chinese Song Dynasty’s Jian ware, Temmoku tea bowls are renowned for their striking black glaze. Their formal nature has made them a staple in traditional samurai tea ceremonies and other refined gatherings.
- Features: Deep, rich black glaze with beautiful variations in finish.
- Ease of Use: Smooth for whisking, though slightly heavier than other styles.
- Recommended for: Formal tea gatherings where tradition is paramount.
- Key Point: Each artisan’s unique touch brings a distinct character to every bowl.
＜Ichiraku, Nihagi, Santokatsu＞
This phrase represents the esteemed hierarchy of matcha bowls in the tea ceremony. Alongside imported pieces like Temmoku and well-known bucket tea bowls, Japan’s own Raku, Hagi, and Karatsu wares have been especially cherished by tea connoisseurs.
Raku Ware
- Features: Hand-shaped with a soft texture achieved through low-temperature firing.
- Ease of Use: Lightweight and comfortable, though it can be prone to chipping.
- Recommended for: Those seeking a warm, inviting bowl.
- Key Point: Blends the aesthetic of traditional tea culture with practical usability.
Hagi Ware
- Features: A rustic charm that deepens in character with use.
- Ease of Use: Comfortably conforms to your hand with smooth whisk movement.
- Recommended for: Those who appreciate a leisurely, relaxed tea experience.
- Key Point: Gains a unique patina and sense of familiarity over time.
Karatsu Ware
- Features: Showcases the distinctive character of ceramic pottery with diverse expressions.
- Ease of Use: Textured surfaces may require a period of adjustment.
- Recommended for: Those who value the authenticity of traditional tea bowls.
- Key Point: Its simple beauty makes it suitable for both formal occasions and everyday use.
Nin-sei Matcha Bowl (Kyoyaki / Kiyomizu-yaki)
This elegant matcha bowl features the ‘Iroe’ technique perfected by Edo-period potter Nono-mura Ninsei. It stands as one of the signature styles in traditional Kyoto ceramics.
- Features: A milky, translucent base enhanced with vivid painted designs.
- Ease of Use: A smooth surface that allows effortless movement of the tea whisk.
- Recommended for: Those who appreciate seasonal aesthetics and artistic design.
- Key Point: Offered in a range of designs and price points to suit every taste.
Conclusion
Matcha bowls come in a wide variety, each steeped in a rich traditional heritage. However, there’s no need to be overwhelmed by their formality. Just as you choose a favorite mug or outfit, trust your instincts when selecting the one that speaks to you. Discover the perfect matcha bowl—a piece of traditional, handmade Kyoto ceramic art—that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
