Hello and welcome.
I’m Masatoshi Yokoyama, owner of KOTOPOTTER, specializing in Kyoto’s handmade, traditional ceramic pottery.
The art of the tea ceremony is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. A matcha bowl is more than a tool—it reflects both aesthetic beauty and the spirit of the ceremony.
However, the formality involved can make choosing one feel intimidating, and the sheer variety can be overwhelming.
As a pottery shop owner, I often advise customers in one of two ways:
- For formal tea ceremonies or practice sessions, consult your tea school’s guidelines.
- For casual, everyday use, choose a design you simply love.
Many tea schools specify the “rank” of bowl allowed based on their tradition. Ignoring those guidelines can make a bowl unsuitable for formal settings.
On the other hand, if you enjoy matcha for its flavor and want to incorporate it into daily life, feel free to select any bowl that resonates with you—whether it’s “beautiful,” “cute,” “stylish,” or “affordable.”
Today, let’s explore how to choose a matcha bowl for everyday use in a casual, approachable way.
1. Differences in Bowl Shapes
Matcha bowls come in various shapes, each suited for different comfort levels and seasonal considerations. Here are three common styles:
Wan-nari (Curved Bowl)
- Features: Classic curved shape that feels natural in the hand.
- Seasonality: Suitable for year-round use.
- Ease of Use: Easy to whisk and stir, ideal for beginners.
- Tip: Highly versatile and recommended for daily enjoyment of matcha.
Tsutsu-nari (Tall Cylindrical Bowl)
- Features: Taller and deeper, with a narrow opening.
- Seasonality: Ideal for winter, as it retains heat well.
- Ease of Use: Requires practice to whisk effectively due to depth.
- Tip: Perfect for enjoying matcha slowly on cold days.
Hira-nari (Shallow Bowl)
- Features: Wide opening and shallow depth.
- Seasonality: Perfect for summer, as tea cools faster.
- Ease of Use: Whisking is smooth and easy.
- Tip: Great for enjoying chilled matcha on hot days.
In general:
- Deeper bowls retain heat longer but require more practice to whisk.
- Shallower bowls cool tea more quickly and are easier for those just starting.
2. Types of Ceramic Bowls and Their Characteristics
The material and glaze style of a matcha bowl affect both appearance and functionality. Here are some traditional types to consider:
Tenmoku Bowls (Tengmoku Chawan)
Tenmoku bowls trace back to Song Dynasty Jian ware in China. These bowls feature a deep black glaze with unique patterns formed by mineral reactions during firing. They have historically been used in samurai and martial arts tea ceremonies.
- Features: Deep black glaze with beautiful variations.
- Ease of Use: Easy to whisk, although slightly heavier.
- Recommended for: Special, formal tea gatherings that emphasize traditional aesthetics.
- Tip: Each artisan’s Tenmoku glaze has its own character, showcasing unique artisan skill.
“Ichiraku, Nihagi, Santōri”—Ranking Traditional Bowls
The phrase “Ichiraku, Nihagi, Santōri” reflects the traditional hierarchy of prized matcha bowls: first Raku, then Hagi, then Karatsu. Alongside imported Jian and Ido bowls, Japanese-made Raku, Hagi, and Karatsu bowls have long been cherished by tea connoisseurs.
Raku Ware (Raku-yaki)
- Features: Hand-shaped and low-fired, producing a soft, warm texture.
- Ease of Use: Lightweight and comfortable, though more prone to chipping.
- Recommended for: Those who value the warm, handmade feel of their bowl.
- Tip: Raku’s rustic elegance pairs perfectly with contemporary lifestyles and traditional tea culture alike.
Hagi Ware (Hagi-yaki)
- Features: Earthy, rustic texture that develops a rich patina over time.
- Ease of Use: Comfortable in the hand, with smooth whisking action.
- Recommended for: Those who enjoy a bowl that evolves with use.
- Tip: Hagi ware becomes more beautiful as the glaze’s crackle absorbs matcha over time.
Karatsu Ware (Karatsu-yaki)
- Features: Pottery texture with a variety of glaze patterns and natural hues.
- Ease of Use: Bowls with textured exteriors may require some acclimation.
- Recommended for: Those who wish to experience a classic, traditional bowl.
- Tip: Karatsu’s simple, rustic charm makes it great for everyday use.
Ninsei-Style Overglaze Bowls (Kyō-yaki / Kiyomizu-yaki)
Employing the overglaze painting technique perfected by Edo-period potter Nonomura Ninsei, these Kyoto-made Kiyomizu-yaki matcha bowls feature vibrant color on a milky white ground.
- Features: Milky white background (with intentional crackle) adorned with vivid overglaze decoration.
- Ease of Use: Smooth interior ensures easy whisking.
- Recommended for: Anyone who wants to enjoy seasonal motifs and artistic design.
- Tip: Available in a wide range of styles and price points.
Summary
Matcha bowls come in many shapes, materials, and traditional styles, each with its own charm rooted in Kyoto’s tea culture. However, there’s no need to feel intimidated by formality.
Just as you might choose a favorite mug or piece of clothing, trust your intuition and select the bowl that speaks to you. Find a matcha bowl—be it a handmade Kyoto ceramic or a more rustic kiln style—that you’ll treasure for years to come.
