Why We Love Them
This authentic Kyoto ware teacup set features two handcrafted earthenware cups in a custom-made paulownia wooden box, stamped with the the Imperial Seal of Japan, making it a truly unique gift for tea lovers.
Ninshu is one of the most esteemed kilns in Kyoto. Established in 1646 at the imperial Ninna-ji temple, Ninshu was granted the usage of the Japanese Emperor’s mark, the chrysanthemum crest.
The kiln’s master artisans produce one-of-a-kind artistic vessels, one by one, on a potter's wheel. The beauty of Ninshu pottery lies in the precise modeling, in its bold lines, and in the richly colored glaze.
Molded with Ninshu’s unique signature style, these versatile cups, uniting the delicate atmosphere of clouds with the depth of black glaze, can be enjoyed as beer, sake, or coffee cups, or even as small bowls for snacks and desserts.
Why Choose Teacups from Kyoto
Kiyomizu-yaki (清水焼) and Kyo-yaki (京焼) ceramics have enjoyed over four centuries of history. The names refer to pottery produced around Higashiyama in Kyoto, or within the wider city area. Kyoto ware is today a highly valued and government-designated traditional Japanese craft. Since Kyoto was long the seat of Japan’s Imperial Court, Kyoto ware is renowned for its stately elegance and ornate decoration.
Kyoto ware is nearly all handmade in small quantities. Ceramic pigments in the Kyoto region often contain large amounts of glass, which allows the artists to create wares that are extremely fine and delicate. These are highly decorative works of art that showcase classic luxury rarely found anywhere else in Japan.
The origins of the Ninshu kiln can be traced back to Ninna-ji temple, established in 888 as the residence of Emperor Uda. The Omuro (literally, the “Emperor’s living room”) kiln was founded in 1646. Due to the temple's history as a purveyor to the Emperor, Ninsei, the kiln’s founder, was granted the use of the imperial family's chrysanthemum crest. He also added his own signature to the pottery items. Authentic Ninshu ceramics are stamped with Ninshu’s signature, as a testimonial to the history of the Omuro kiln.
Caring For Your Kyoto Ware Teacups
These cups can be washed in the dishwasher, and used in a microwave (although not a traditional oven).
Details
- Teacup set, comprising two ceramic teacups
- Handmade in Japan
- Free gift-wrapping in Japanese furoshiki cloth
- Includes custom-made wooden box, signed by the artist
- Kyo-ware/Kiyomizu-ware
- As each handmade product is unique, there will be differences in size, color, and pattern from the photographs above.
- Size: Ø 4” (10cm), height 3” (7cm), capacity 7fl.oz (200ml)
- Product code: 94102WH
Free Shipping
- USA, Canada, Europe, Middle East, and East Asia: Enjoy FREE express shipping on all orders over $99!
- Australia, New Zealand, and India: Enjoy FREE shipping on all orders over $199 USD.
- Japan: Enjoy FREE shipping on all orders.
Shipping Times
- USA, Canada, Europe, Middle East, and East Asia: Orders usually arrive within 3-5 days after shipment.
- Australia, New Zealand, and India: Delivery is usually within a week, depending on local customs.
- Japan: Orders typically arrive within 24 hours after shipment.
- All other countries: Orders usually arrive within 4-5 days after shipment, depending on local customs.
Taxes
- Shipments from Japan may be subject to additional taxes and handling fees imposed by customs and mail carriers. Customers are responsible for these costs.
- Customs and import rules vary by country, for example the USA usually doesn’t charge any extra fees, but the EU sometimes does. See here for information on selected countries.
- If an order is returned due to refusal to pay local taxes or customs duties, the full two-way shipping costs will be deducted from any refund.
- Shipments in the US may be subject to sales tax where mandated by federal and local authorities. Sales tax will be calculated at checkout.
- Shipments within Japan are subject to consumption tax, which is included in the price.
Shipping Locations
- All our products come to you from Japan.
- Especially for customers in the USA, we can now also ship some items from our location in California to ensure the fastest delivery!
Track Your Order
- Once your order has shipped, we will send you a confirmation email with a link to track your shipment.
- Please note that it is the customer's responsibility to track shipments. If an order is returned due to non-collection, the full two-way shipping costs will be deducted from any refund.
If you would like to return your order for whatever reason, we're here to help! We offer no hassle returns within 30 days of receiving your order.
*Please note the following conditions to our return and exchange policy:
- Items must be returned unused and folded in the original packaging.
- Items must be returned to their original shipping location (this is usually in Tokyo).
- Discounted items, or items purchased with store credit are not eligible for return or refund.
- The original outward shipping cost (the full amount that we paid to the courier) will be deducted from the refund.
- The customer is responsible for the return shipping cost.
- For hygiene reasons, we cannot accept returns on earrings, futon mattresses and duvets, mattress/duvet covers, or tatami mats.
How do I claim my free refund?
Please contact us and we will confirm the shipping address for you to send the item.
Please return the item folded in its original packaging and send your return by mail, marking “Returned Items” on the customs form. If you send your return by courier (DHL, FedEx, etc), or do not write “Returned Items” on the customs form, import duties may be levied which must be paid by the sender or subtracted from any refund.
Once we receive the returned item and have confirmed its condition as unused and undamaged, we will issue a refund not including shipping costs or duties.
Do I have to pay shipping costs?
We offer a full refund of the product, not including the original outward shipping costs. You must bear the cost of return shipping.
If you received the original order damaged, then we will also cover both the initial and the return shipping costs.
Can I exchange for a different product?
Yes! To exchange an unused and undamaged item, you can process the return as described above and reorder the new item through the website.
Alternatively, when you notify us about a return, let us know which product you would like as a replacement, and we will hold it in stock for you until we receive the original return. Please note, there may be additional shipping costs.
What if my item is damaged?
Very occasionally items may be damaged in transport. In the unlikely event that you item arrives in a damaged condition:
We ask that you contact us within 48 hours of receipt. This enables us to make a claim with the shipping company.
Please keep hold of the damaged item and provide some photos of the damage.
We will issue you with a full refund or replacement, including shipping costs.
How long will my refund take?
We will process the refund within 2 days of receiving the returned item.
