Kumidashi: The Elegant Japanese Tea Cup Tradition

In the world of Japanese tea, vessels are more than functional—they shape the entire experience. Among them, the kumidashi (汲み出し) stands out for its refined form and thoughtful purpose.

What is a Kumidashi?
Kumidashi are wide, shallow cups traditionally used for high-grade green teas such as gyokuro or sencha. Their open shape allows the tea’s aroma to gently rise, its color to be fully appreciated, and its temperature to be enjoyed at its most delicate point.

Kumidashi vs. Yunomi
While the yunomi is a taller, everyday cup for casual tea drinking, the kumidashi is used for more formal, mindful occasions—often when serving guests a first, exquisite brew. The shallow profile and thin rim are intentional, inviting the drinker to savor each sip slowly.

A Brief History
The use of kumidashi can be traced back to tea culture in the Edo period (1603–1868), where presentation and seasonality were as important as taste. Over time, potters refined the shape and glazing to suit different teas, creating a tradition that blends utility and art.

Kotaro Ikura’s Celadon Kumidashi
Contemporary ceramic artist Kotaro Ikura brings this tradition into the present with his celadon-glazed kumidashi. Each cup is hand-carved with facets, glazed in pale blue, and finished with an exceptionally thin rim—a testament to his skill. His signature is inscribed on the base, marking each as a unique work of craft.

In using a kumidashi, you’re not just drinking tea—you’re connecting with centuries of Japanese culture, and with the quiet pleasure of truly seeing, smelling, and tasting your tea.

Explore our Celadon Kumidashi Cup by Kotaro Ikura to bring this tradition into your home.