Japanese green teas deserve the right teapot. While it's possible to brew sencha and gyokuro in almost any vessel, using a teapot designed specifically for these teas can make a noticeable difference.
Why Teapot Choice Matters
Japanese green teas are typically brewed at lower temperatures and shorter infusion times than many Chinese teas.
A suitable teapot allows the leaves to expand fully and makes it easy to pour quickly and evenly.
Best Teapot for Sencha
For everyday sencha, we usually recommend a Tokoname kyusu between 200ml and 320ml.
The built-in ceramic filter handles fine tea leaves well and allows for a smooth, controlled pour.
Best Teapot for Gyokuro
Gyokuro is often brewed in smaller quantities using cooler water.
Many tea drinkers prefer a houhin, shiboridashi or a small kyusu between 100ml and 150ml. These smaller vessels help concentrate flavour and allow greater control during brewing.
Clay or Porcelain?
Both work well.
Unglazed Tokoname clay is popular because many tea enthusiasts feel it softens the liquor slightly and complements Japanese green teas beautifully.
Porcelain offers a more neutral brewing experience and is easy to clean.For most tea drinkers, a quality Tokoname kyusu is the most versatile choice. It's practical, beautiful, and perfectly suited to brewing both sencha and gyokuro.