Set in Gyokuro / Tokonamé Shimizu Genji Yakishimé

The set includes a special teapot for Gyokuro green tea and two small cups made in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, by master craftsman Shimizu Genji (1945-) at the Hokujo kiln. The city of Tokoname specializes in ceramics and is particularly known for its earthenware teapots. Tokoname is the oldest and most important of Japan's six ancient pottery centers, along with Shigaraki, Bizen, Tanba, Echizen, and Seto. Ceramics have been produced there since the late Heian period (11th century), and evidence of this production can be found in Kamakura and on the northern coast of Honshu. The main characteristic of Tokoname pottery is the use of iron-rich clay from the Chita Peninsula: the iron in the clay, combined with the tannins in the tea, is believed to help soften the tea's astringency and bitterness. Tokoname pottery is now designated as an important intangible cultural asset of Japan. The current Hokujo kiln is run by master craftsman Shimizu Genji.

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