The beauty of the chawan
The Beauty of the Chawan: Finding Stillness and Style in Your Matcha Routine
If you’ve recently fallen in love with matcha, you’ve probably realised there’s more to it than just the vibrant green powder. Matcha isn’t only about taste or energy — it’s about ritual, texture, and the quiet moments that come from slowing down.
And at the heart of this ritual lies something truly special: the chawan — the traditional Japanese tea bowl.
Why do I need a chawan?
- What is a Chawan?
A chawan (茶碗) is the bowl used in Japan’s centuries-old tea ceremony to prepare and enjoy matcha. Each piece is handcrafted with care, often shaped and glazed by artisans whose skills have been refined over generations. A true Japanese matcha bowl isn’t just a vessel — it’s an experience. The feel of the clay, the curve of the rim, the warmth in your hands — every detail invites mindfulness and presence. - Why a Chawan Matters
While you can whisk matcha in almost any medium sized bowl, using a real chawan makes a world of difference. The wide base gives your chasen (bamboo whisk) room to move freely, helping you create that smooth, creamy foam. The gentle curve of the walls allows matcha to mix evenly with water, ensuring no clumps or uneven texture. And most importantly, it transforms your matcha moment into a beautiful ritual — something to slow down for, to savour, to photograph, and to share. At Yamada Chaya, we believe your tools should inspire you. A handcrafted chawan turns a simple cup of matcha into an intentional, grounding experience.
Discovering Minoware and Oribe Chawan
At Yamada Chaya, we’re proud to offer a curated collection of Minoware and Oribe chawan — handcrafted in Japan’s Gifu Prefecture, where ceramic artisans have been creating matcha bowls for over 1,300 years.
Minoware: Subtle Elegance from Gifu, Japan
Our Minoware chawan collection is made in Gifu Prefecture — home to over 1,300 years of ceramic tradition. Each bowl reflects the timeless simplicity and balance of Japanese design. Vibrant, natural tones. Gentle textures. Forms that feel effortless in the hands. Minoware chawans are perfect for beginners and intermediate matcha drinkers who value authenticity and understated beauty.
→ Explore Minoware Chawan below
Click on the image to view our Minoware chawan
Oribe Chawan: For the Bold and Traditional
If you’re drawn to something more expressive, discover our Oribe chawan. Known for their striking green glazes, asymmetrical forms, and wabi-sabi character, Oribe ware reflects the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection. Each piece is a statement — timeless yet full of individuality — ideal for experienced matcha drinkers or content creators who want something uniquely photogenic and deeply rooted in Japanese artistry.
→ Shop Oribe Chawan below
Click on the image to view our Oribe chawan
Choosing Your Chawan
Your matcha bowl should reflect you. Here are a few simple tips:
New to matcha? Choose a medium-depth chawan with a wide opening — easy to whisk and forgiving in shape.
Intermediate or advanced drinker? Try a smaller or more sculptural bowl to refine your pouring and whisking technique.
Creating content or seeking beauty? Look for visual character — natural glazes, brushstroke details, or tactile clay textures that catch the light.
Each Yamada Chaya chawan is made in Japan and chosen for its craftsmanship, balance, and aesthetic harmony.
