When making Japanese green tea, we often focus on the tea leaves themselves. But the real game-changer is which kyusu you choose and how you use it. A kyusu is the key tool that brings out the tea’s full aroma and umami. Below are simple tips to help you brew a great cup.
1) Kyusu materials & shapes
Kyusu teapots come in earthenware, porcelain, glass, or metal. Among them, earthenware kyusu are especially popular. Famous clays like Tokoname and Banko are known for producing a round, mellow taste that softens bitterness.
Shape also matters:
Round-bodied kyusu let the leaves open fully, enhancing aroma.
Low, flat kyusu suit premium sencha, helping extract deep umami gently.
Note: A kyusu is a teapot for brewing, not a kettle. Boil water separately, then pour into the kyusu.
2) Simple brewing steps (sencha)
Cool boiled water to 70–80 °C (158–176 °F) using a pitcher or cooling cup (yuzamashi).
Put 2–3 g (about 1 tsp) of tea leaves per person into the kyusu.
Add hot water and steep for about 1 minute.
Pour in rounds across the cups, and empty to the last drop.
3) Key points for a better cup
Pour evenly in several passes. Don’t fill one cup at a time. Rotate among cups so everyone gets the same strength.
Finish to the last drop. The final trickle is called the “golden drop”—it holds concentrated umami and completes the flavor.
A kyusu isn’t just a tool—it’s your partner in unlocking the best of Japanese tea. By choosing the right material and shape, controlling water temperature and steep time, and paying attention to how you pour, you can enjoy a special cup at home. Find a kyusu you love and make your tea time richer every day.
Where can I buy a kyusu in Kyoto?
You can find authentic kyusu at TSURU-IPPUKU, our teaware shop near Nijo Castle in central Kyoto.
In-store pickup available. International shipping on request.
We stock Tokoname/Banko clay, fine-mesh and ceramic strainers, 240–360 ml sizes.
All photos in this article feature items photographed at our Kyoto shop, TSURU-IPPUKU. Some pieces may no longer be available, as our collection changes with the seasons.
Our shop info
Located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nijo Castle, we specialize in traditional and modern Japanese tea sets, handmade matcha bowls, Kyoto teapots, Nambu iron kettles, Japanese SAKE set (cup & pot) and tea ceremony accessories. Whether you’re looking for an authentic matcha bowl (chawan) or a high-quality Japanese teapot (kyusu), you’ll find the perfect piece to take home as a Kyoto souvenir. We provide secure packaging to ensure safe transport, and international shipping is available. Visit us and explore the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship!
