handcrafted container, diameter: 3.2inch (8.2cm), height: 4.7inch (12cm), capacity: 150g tea leaves
Made from Cherry Bark, Natural Wood

This Chazutsu is crafted using the rare and time-honored traditional technique of KABASAIKU, a heritage unique to Akita Prefecture. Revered not only for its cultural significance but also for its practical qualities, KABASAIKU is known for its exceptional durability and natural resistance to both humidity and dryness.

KABASAIKU is a traditional Japanese craft that transforms the bark of the mountain cherry tree into exquisite works of art. Its etymology is said to trace back to the classical Japanese long poems, where the mountain cherry blossom was originally described as “KANIHA,” a term that later evolved into “KABA.” SAIKU means “handcraft.” Handed down exclusively in the KAKUNODATE area of Akita Prefecture, it remains one of Japan’s most treasured cultural legacies.

The bark of wild cherry trees varies in thickness and texture depending on the natural environment. Master artisans study each piece with care, adjusting their techniques to achieve harmony and balance. As the supply of this rare material grows increasingly limited, every fragment must be used to its fullest, guided by craftsmanship and deep respect for nature.

The making of KABASAIKU does not signify completion; its true essence is revealed only when it becomes part of everyday life. With time and use, its depth, luster, and warmth continue to grow, evolving alongside the people who cherish it. Each piece, crafted with devotion and traditional expertise, is meant to live with its owner and mature gracefully through the years.

The Chazutsu features MUJIKAWA, a refined surface created by carefully shaving the bark of the mountain cherry. MUJI (“plain bark”) refers to cherry bark used in its natural state without added decoration, hence the name MUJI. KAWA means “bark.” Unlike frost-patterned bark, which preserves its raw texture, MUJIKAWA reveals a smooth reddish-brown layer that is meticulously polished to a rich, elegant sheen. This distinctive finish embodies the sophistication and timeless beauty of KABASAIKU.

Every piece of MUJIKAWA is unique—its knots and grains narrate the artistry of nature itself. With daily use, the surface deepens in character, acquiring a serene radiance that reflects both the quiet passage of time and the enduring spirit of tradition.

Specially packaged in a carton box.
Made in Japan.
(Please note that the coloring process is done by hand, so the hue and pattern may vary from piece to piece.)