The Tetsukyusu teapot is a central object of Japanese tea culture: heavy, calming, and serious about keeping the tea warm. This 0.6 litre version is made in China in the Japanese style, with a green enamelled finish. The weight is 1.238 kilograms – the heft itself becomes part of the tea ritual, because it slows your movements. A sisal rope runs through the handle, giving both a better grip and protection from the heat of the metal.
What defines the Tetsukyusu style
Tetsukyusu is a traditional Japanese teapot shape, characterised by the weight of cast iron and a gently curved silhouette. The inside is traditionally enamelled to keep the iron neutral to the taste of the tea. The outside is finished in colour – this piece in a green tone. The base carries the polished surface used by Japanese tea masters, ensuring even heat distribution.
How it keeps the tea warm
Cast iron warms up slowly and cools down slowly. When you fill the pot with boiling water, the iron body holds the warmth for a long time and releases it evenly, sip after sip. Many ceramic teapots cool to lukewarm after 20 minutes – the Tetsukyusu, by contrast, can stay pleasantly warm for 40 to 50 minutes. Equally suited to long conversations and to receiving guests.
The mesh filter for loose-leaf tea
A stainless steel, fine-mesh filter is included with the pot. It is made specifically for steeping loose-leaf tea: the leaves open up their flavour in the water, and the filter lifts out cleanly, so you can control the steeping time precisely. Many use it for Chinese herbal tea, Japanese sencha, ginger-lemon blends. The filter is supplied together with the pot.
Practical advice for use
Before the first use, rinse the pot with warm water and let it warm through. Prepare your tea at the right water temperature (green tea 70–80 °C, black tea 95–100 °C). After use, pour out the tea and water, let it cool down, then rinse with lukewarm water. Strongly acidic teas (lemon blends) are best prepared in a cup rather than in the pot. Never set it on an open flame – this is a serving pot, not a kettle for boiling.
Cleaning and storage
Wash by hand with lukewarm water and a soft sponge. Do not use dish soap and never place it in the dishwasher – the hot water, steam and strong chemicals can damage both the enamel and the iron exterior. Dry immediately with a kitchen cloth and let it air out upside down. Store in a dry place together with the lid. From time to time you can polish it with a soft cloth.