Close-up of beige stones and gravel (Hanasaka Stone)

Hanasaka Ceramic Stone

Hanasaka ceramic stone is a rare local material from Komatsu City in Ishikawa Prefecture, and has long supported the region’s ceramic tradition. Valued for its fine particles and natural plasticity, it offers artisans a material that responds beautifully to shaping, allowing for precise forms and subtle expression in the finished piece.

Rich in iron, Hanasaka stone develops a soft, slightly bluish white tone when fired under reduction. In this chawan, its natural character is further complemented by a gentle beige glaze made from recycled residual clay, creating a quiet, refined surface that reflects both the beauty of the material and the care of the process.

From Stone to Clay

Extracted Hanasaka Ceramic Stone in our Tea Master's hand.

Saiseki

Quarrying

Hanasaka ceramic stone is extracted from the hills of Komatsu. While early methods relied on manual digging, modern quarrying uses controlled surface extraction, ensuring both safety and consistency in sourcing the raw material.

Machines crush extracted hanasaka ceramic stone, imitating the manual crushing method of ancient times.

Funsai

Crushing

The stone is first roughly broken down, then crushed using a stamping process that mimics the motion of a pestle. Softer portions become fine powder, while harder fragments remain as small pebbles, allowing for precise separation.

Close-up of clay mixed with water inside a basin, to filter impurities.

Suihi

Elutriation

The crushed material is mixed with water to form a slurry, which is carefully agitated and filtered. Through this process, coarse particles and impurities such as iron are removed, leaving only the purest stone particles suspended in liquid.

A pile of dehydrated clay compressed into a disk shape for better storage.

Dassui

Dewatering

The refined slurry is passed through a filter press to remove excess water. The resulting clay is shaped into dense blocks, stabilizing the material and preparing it for use.

Hanasaka stone finished clay compressed, kneaded, and shaped as cylinders, ready to be worked by kiln artisans.

Doren

Kneading

Finally, the clay is carefully kneaded with controlled amounts of water and blended materials. Air is removed during this process, resulting in a smooth, consistent clay ready for shaping by the artisan.

How to Use

A person prepares a wooden tea whisk by putting it into hot water to soften it.

01

Prepare Your Whisk

Before preparing your matcha, place your chasen in warm water for a few moments. This softens the bamboo tines, allowing for smoother whisking and helping preserve the whisk's shape over time.

Person holding a container of matcha green tea powder with a bamboo spoon and a metal sieve on a light background.

02

Put the Matcha

Place your chawan and sieve on a scale and set it to zero. Add the desired amount of matcha for a precise dose.

Green powder being sifted into a white bowl with a metal sieve.

03

Sift the Matcha

Gently pass the matcha through a fine sieve into the bowl. This step removes any clumps, allowing the powder to blend evenly and creating a smoother, more refined texture.

Boiled water being poured into the sifted matcha inside the Matcha Bowl.

04

Add Hot Water

Pour water into the bowl, following the recommended temperature and quantity for your matcha. Using the right balance ensures the tea reveals its full aroma, texture, and depth.

A person using a chasen to whisk matcha in a white bowl on a wooden surface

05

Whisk the Matcha

Using your chasen, whisk the matcha with gentle W or M-shaped motions until a fine, even froth forms on the surface. Finish with a slow circular movement to smooth the texture and refine the foam.

A man drinking from a white matcha bowl with a neutral background

06

Enjoy your Matcha

Enjoy your matcha directly from the chawan, appreciating its texture and aroma. Alternatively, pour it into milk to create a smooth and comforting matcha latte.

FAQs

What is Kutani Ware?

Kutani ware is a traditional ceramic from Ishikawa Prefecture, supported by local materials such as Hanasaka ceramic stone. While this piece does not feature the typical overglaze decoration, it is rooted in the same regional material tradition.

Can I use this bowl for preparing other tea powders?

Yes. With its 300 ml capacity and open shape, this chawan offers ample space for primarily whisking matcha but also any other tea powder, such as Hojicha or Genmaicha.

Is each piece identical?

No. As each chawan is handmade, slight variations in shape, tone, and texture may occur. These differences are part of the character and uniqueness of each piece.

How should I care for this Chawan?

We recommend gentle hand washing (with water only) and avoiding sudden temperature changes. With proper care, the piece will develop a deeper character over time.