Choosing a Japanese kyusu: Green tea’s perfect teapot

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This quirky little teapot with a side handle may seem old and traditional. However, the kyusu is directly tied to the rise of Japanese green tea in leaf form called sencha, which has only been around for the last few hundred years [1].

Kyusu are typically made of clay, include some sort of built in strainer, and are fairly small by European teapot standards. A whole teapot will typically pour enough for about a single cup of tea using a standard sized mug.

But if you’re new to the kyusu world, there is a ton more under the little ceramic lid to explore.

Why the side handle?

The most common modern type of kyusu is the yokode kyusu, which has the handle attached at 90 degrees from the spout [2]. The reason for this iconic design feature is to make pouring easier and more elegant [3]. Rather than using one hand to grab the pot from the handle and another to hold down the lid when pouring, the kyusu’s design lets you pour with a single hand and gentle turn of the wrist, holding down the lid with a thumb.

Various types of built-in strainers

The kyusu combines form and function in its built-in strainer, so no itty bitty tea leaf surprises make their way into your teacup. Its fine strainer also makes it uniquely best equipped for several delicate types of Japanese tea like deep-steamed green tea (fukamushi sencha) and gyokuro, which both have small, fragile leaves [4].

1. Clay strainer behind the spout

Kyusu with a clay strainer attached to the inside of the spout are the more traditional option, often a bit more expensive because of the craftsmanship, and longest lasting [5]. Because of the larger holes, tea leaves are less likely to get stuck, but this also makes it better suited for larger leaf green teas [6].

2. Metal mesh behind the spout

In Japan, kyusu with a metal mesh behind the spout is most common. As with the clay infuser, having a small strainer right behind the spout allows for plenty of room for the tea to steep. Metal mesh also has finer holes to better steep more delicate tea.

3. Metal mesh band around the pot

I have this type of kyusu and see it stocked in online shops quite a bit. Its function is similar to the one with a smaller metal mesh. I’ve never had a single issue cleaning the tea leaves out and it’s in great shape even after using it almost daily!

4. Removable basket infuser

Because it’s removable, this is by far the easiest type of kyusu to clean. However, as with many conveniences, there’s a tradeoff with the tea’s ability to fully steep. That’s because the basket limits the space inside the kyusu for the leaves to swish around and fully expand, which enables the leaves to release all the good stuff and flavor.

Where to buy kyusu

You can find both handmade and production versions of the kyusu at many Japanese tea companies online [7]. There are pros and cons to each, but it goes without saying that production-made ones are more affordable. They are also typically fitted with a steel mesh strainer, while handmade clay kyusu have a clay strainer on the inside of the spout.

My blue ceramic kyusu is from Senbird Tea, so we’ll start there!

1. Senbird Tea

Senbird has two kyusu options: a Tokoname black clay kyusu without a lid that allows hot water to cool faster ($114.99) and a glazed ceramic variety that keeps hot water warmer for longer ($59.99). Each is suited for different brewing styles and tea types.

You can save 15% off a Senbird Tea kyusu with my promo code: steepedreams.

Website: senbirdtea.com

2. Hagiyaki-ya

Hagiyaki-ya specializes in stocking Japanese traditional pottery, stoneware, and ceramics. The online store has a colorful collection of kyusu in several designs, colors, and sizes from Tokonome, a Japanese pottery town renowned for its kyusu [4]. Prices range from around $80 to over $200.

Website: hagiyakiya.com

3. Sugimoto

Also a popular Japanese tea seller, Sugimoto has a range of standard, rounded bottom kyusu, including several from Tokoname. All are priced under $100.

Website: sugimotousa.com

4. Shiha Teapot

Kyusu collectors and more serious tea drinkers will enjoy the hard-core gallery of handmade kyusu on Shiha Teapot. You can filter these really fancy teapots by artist if there’s a particular artisan’s style that you like. The prices definitely reflect the workmanship, and you’ll find the price point on Shiha Teapot goes from a few $100 to over a thousand.

Website: shihateapot.com

5. Yunomi

Yunomi is another tea seller that also has several kyusu options for Japanese green tea drinkers. They have all sorts of shapes and colors, depending on your preferred aesthetic. Prices start as low as $20.

Website: yunomi.life

How to clean your kyusu

You don’t need fancy detergents or special tools to clean your kyusu after each use, but there are a few recommendations to keep in mind. Following these steps will help maximize your kyusu’s lifespan.

Rinse the kyusu with hot water immediately after steeping. Avoid soaps and detergents! Unglazed clay teapots can absorb the smell and taste of soaps used [8].
Leaving tea leaves in the teapot overnight can create mold and unwanted smells. I learned this the hard way.
If tea leaves get stuck in the strainer, use a soft brush like a toothbrush to dislodge any residue [9]. Avoid using a toothpick with a clay strainer, as it could damage the delicate holes.
After rinsing, leave out to thoroughly dry [5].

[1] “Japanese Teaware.” Global Japanese Tea Association, 12 July 2019, https://gjtea.org/info/japanese-tea-information/japanese-teaware/.
[2] Comins, Rob, and Comins, Michelle. Tales of the Tea Trade: The Secret to Sourcing and Enjoying the World's Favourite Drink. United Kingdom, Pavilion Books, 2019.
[3] Uhl, Joseph Wesley. The Art and Craft of Tea: An Enthusiast's Guide to Selecting, Brewing, and Serving Exquisite Tea. United States, Quarry Books, 2015.
[4] Learning by brewing - TEXT EDITION: The easy way to better tea. N.p., JENS DENNIG, 2020.
[5] “お茶のプロが教えるおすすめの急須・選び方のポイント: ハルメク暮らし.” 「ハルメクWEB」50代からの女性誌部数No.１公式サイト, https://halmek.co.jp/culture/c/hobby/4225.
[6] YouTube, YouTube, 2 Nov. 2020, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfZDXrlz_bc. Accessed 20 July 2022.
[7] Heiss, Mary Lou, and Heiss, Robert J.. The Story of Tea: A Cultural History and Drinking Guide. United States, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed, 2011.
[8] 編集スタッフ　小辰 , et al. “急須の選び方｜種類別の特徴と美味しいお茶になる急須とは？.” 急須の選び方｜種類別の特徴と美味しいお茶になる急須とは？ -Food for Well-Being -かわしま屋のWebメディア-, 23 Aug. 1970, https://kawashima-ya.jp/contents/?p=12445.
[9] “Black Pine Kyusu.” Sugimoto Tea Company, https://www.sugimotousa.com/catalog/product/teaware-tea-pots-cups-artisinal-teaware/black-pine-kyusu/.

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about the author

Hello, is it tea you’re looking for? Raquel is an Arizona-based tea drinker who writes about tea as a side hobby. Her current favorites are Earl Grey with a splash of milk and any Japanese green tea.