​“Kyupot to Utsuwa Isobe”, located in “Tokoname Cera Mall” where pottery shops gather, is a specialty store for Tokoname ware teapots.

Tokoname ware has a long history, dating back to the Heian period. At that time, large jars were mainly baked, but the products have changed over time. The production of vermilion teapots, representative of Tokoname ware, began 200 years ago in the late Edo period.

Since then, technology has continued to evolve. In the 30's of the Showa era, a new molding technique was established and an electric kiln was introduced, making it possible to mass-produce teapots and making them widely known to us.

This time, we will introduce the features and charms of such Tokoname ware teapots.

It is located in "Tokoname Cera Mall", about 5 minutes by car from Tokoname IC.

I want to convey the charm of Tokoname ware teapot more.

Isobe Shoten, which operates “Kyupot to Utsuwa Isobe”, was founded in 1964. At that time, we specialized in wholesale business, but 30 years ago, we moved to the current location when Cera Mall opened, and also started retail business.

In July 2021, it will reopen as a specialty store specializing in Tokoname ware. We want people to enjoy tea more with Tokoname-yaki teapots, so we convey the appeal of the teapots along with the stories of the creators.

In order to convey the charm of the production area, it seems that they are conscious of a wide and well-balanced product lineup without overselecting. Asako Isobe said, "I want to be a teapot shop with many drawers."

Inside the shop, there are rows of teapots and tableware made by more than 50 craftsmen and artists, from young to veteran.

The work is displayed for each artist, and the style and career are introduced along with the name tag like this. After the renewal, there are exhibits that make you feel the artist's thoughts.

Characteristics and charm of Tokoname ware teapot

The biggest feature of Tokoname ware is that the clay used as raw material contains a lot of iron. The iron in the teapot reacts with the tannins in the tea, which has the effect of removing just the right amount of astringency and creating a mild taste.

In addition, since the body and lid of the teapot are put together one by one by hand, the lid closes perfectly and can be used comfortably, and the tea is steamed well and can be used functionally.

There is a method of making a teapot by turning it on a potter's wheel, but there is also a method called "Ikomi" using a mold. After that, each part is assembled and glued, so it seems that a lot of human hands are involved.

There are various types of tea strainers for Tokoname ware teapot, and you can choose according to the type of tea. In addition to the vermilion teapot, there are currently many color variations and designs, so you should be able to find your favorite teapot.

There are works in light pastel colors, and the lineup is diverse.

The technique of “mogake” is to create a pattern by wrapping seaweed with thread and baking it. It seems that it is a traditional technique of Tokoname ware unique to the coastal production area.

Tips for choosing a teapot

I am at a loss as to how to choose from among many teapots. The best thing to do here is to ask the store staff! So I asked Mr. Isobe.

Mr. Isobe: “Weight, size, fit when holding, ease of handling… It depends on what you set your criteria for, but if you are buying a teapot for the first time, ask about how many people you want and your budget. I will make a proposal.For those who buy more than one, I will ask them about the tea leaves they use and what they are used for.”

It is important to choose not only for functionality, but also for appearance.

Isobe: “I think it would be nice to choose a teapot that you fell in love with the design at first sight and drink with the tea leaves that match it. Many customers choose the teapot first, but the opposite is also possible I want you to enjoy yourself freely."

There are many teapots that are not lined up in the store. Please enjoy choosing a teapot by asking the staff or picking it up yourself.

Variety of Tokoname ware teapots

Since all the teapots are carefully made in this way, the amount of production is limited, and the arrival situation varies, so the teapots lined up in the store change every day. I will introduce some of the products.

North Dragon Tatsuo Umehara

A simple vermilion teapot is recommended for beginners.

These two teapots use the same raw materials, but the difference in the firing method creates two color variations. Black is more popular in today's lifestyle.

Jinshu Touen Seiji Ito

The flat teapot has been popular in recent years. The wide bottom allows the tea leaves to open well, making it perfect for brewing a strong cup of tea.

Aomine Tsuzuki

A palm-sized teapot with a cute chrysanthemum-shaped lid. The handle is called "back hand" and is often used in Chinese tea.

Masafu Ito

The algae teapot I mentioned earlier. The works of young teapot artist Gafu Ito are very popular and sometimes difficult to obtain.

So Yamada

Sou Yamada's blue teapot. He is the grandson of the late Mr. Jozan Yamada III, who was designated as a Living National Treasure for Tokoname ware.

The popular blue series.

Workshops and courses for beginners

Workshops to enjoy tea using Tokoname-yaki teapots are also held regularly. For example, you can enjoy the experience of making matcha, Chinese tea, or selecting tea leaves that match the season.

Other courses are also held, so please check the store's Instagram for details.

"Kyupot to Utsuwa Isobe" is filled with our commitment to "delivering important teapots made by craftsmen and artists to users (customers)" and our desire to "provide your favorite teapots" with a wide selection of products. . From teapots that can be used every day to artistic works, we have a wide variety of items, so please find your favorite.