Yokade No Kyusu - A Cultural Icon in Teapot Form
Imagine a cute little teapot with the handle on the side, that's Yokade No Kyusu or Yoko De No Kyusu witch literally means "side handle teapot", the star of the show and a cultural icon.
The Story (History) of Yokode No Kyusu
Once upon a time, a monk set off on an adventure that would forever connect China and Japan through the Art of Tea. Originating from the Song Dynasty's era (960-1279), where vessels like the Kifus warmed alcohol and the Kibusho, with its distinctive side handle, heated water, the monk carried the latter across seas. His arrival in Japan (Edo Period 1603-1867) with the Kibusho marked the genesis of what would become the beloved Yokade Kyusu teapot.
Baisao (1675 -1763), "Old Tea Seller", was a name he picked up from his act of making tea in the Kyoto area. His Zen priest name was Gekkai Gensho.
The Man Who Brought the Kyusu to the Heart of Japan
The man, the myth, the legend himself. Baisao, the "old tea seller", the most representative figure whose wanderings with a side-handled teapot forever changed Japan's tea-drinking culture. It was in this period, in the 1730s, when tea (Matcha Powder) was considered to symbolize a class and status that belonged only to an elite section of society, Baisao emerged as a harbinger of change. With his lifelong dedication to Zen Buddhism, he cultivated an appreciation for the simplicity and communal spirit of loose-leaf tea, a stark contrast to the exclusive world of powdered matcha.
His journeys through the city, bearing his tea tools including the beloved kyusu on a bamboo pole, are immortalized in the artwork of Ito Jakuchu, showcasing a man deeply devoted to his craft and teachings. Through his efforts, Baisao not only popularized the use of the kyusu but also initiated the domestic production of tea ware, making the elegant simplicity of the tea ceremony a staple of Japanese culture.
His legacy is a testament to the power of tradition, innovation, and the shared experience of tea. At the age of 61, Baisao established the pioneering Tsusen-tei tea house by the Kamo River in Kyoto, creating a sanctuary where the ritual of tea was accessible to all.
The Green Tea Maestro: Yokade no Kyusu
The Yokade no Kyusu, with its distinctive side handle, is tailored to elevate the brewing and enjoyment of green tea. Its thoughtful design optimizes the infusion process, allowing the delicate and complex flavors of green tea to blossom fully. The integral fine mesh strainer and the teapot's shape work harmoniously to maintain the ideal steeping conditions, enhancing the tea's natural sweetness and depth. As a centerpiece of the tea preparation ritual, the Yokade no Kyusu transforms each serving of green tea into a meditative practice, focusing on balance, beauty, and the art of mindfulness.
Crafting Yokade no Kyusu
Crafting a Yokade no Kyusu teapot is an art that reflects the intricate workmanship, where the aesthetic decision to leave the teapot unglazed or to apply just a whisper of clear glaze serves to underscore the clay's natural virtues. Selecting mineral-rich clay, artisans ensure that each Yokade no Kyusu not only enhances the tea's flavor by softening bitterness and enriching its sweetness and aroma but also honors the legacy of Kyusu making. This careful selection and crafting process highlights the artisan's dedication to preserving the integrity and essence of traditional tea brewing.
A Guide To Selecting Your Yokode Kyusu
-
Material Matters
From classic ceramics to modern glass, the material affects the tea's taste and the teapot's durability. -
Ceramic:
- Absorbs flavors, enhancing subsequent brews.
- Good heat retention.
-
Porcelain:
- Non-porous, flavor-preserving, easy to clean.
-
Glass:
- Non-porous, allows visual appreciation of tea.
- Less heat retention.
-
Stoneware:
- Durable, moderately porous.
- Good heat retention.
-
Size and Capacity
Consider the number of servings you usually prepare. A Yokode Kyusu typically ranges from 100 to 300ml, perfect for personal or small group sessions. -
Design and Craftsmanship
Each Yokode Kyusu tells a story through its design. Choose one that resonates with your aesthetic sense and the ambiance you wish to create during your tea moments.
Mastering the Art of Brewing with Yokode Kyusu
Using the Yokode Kyusu is an art that enhances the tea's flavor and your overall tea experience. Here’s a simple guide:
- Warm the Yokode Kyusu with hot water, then discard this water.
- Add green tea leaves (about one teaspoon per cup).
- Pour hot water (around 70-80°C) into the teapot and let steep for a few minutes.
- Serve the tea, enjoying the nuanced flavors brought out by your Yokode Kyusu.
Caring for Your Yokode Kyusu
To ensure your Yokode Kyusu remains a faithful companion in your tea journey, follow these care tips:
- Rinse with Warm Water: After each use, cleanse it with warm water. Avoid using soaps or detergents to preserve the natural flavors.
- Air Dry: Allow your Yokode Kyusu to air dry completely before storing to prevent mold and odors.
FAQ
Why are Yokade Kyusu so small?
- Yokade no Kyusu are typically small to optimize the infusion of green tea, which often requires more precise water-to-leaf ratios and quicker steeping times. The smaller size ensures that the tea can be served at its freshest and tastes its best.
Is Yokade Kyusu for green tea?
- Yes, Yokade Kyusu is especially suited for brewing green tea. Its design, including features like a fine mesh strainer and optimal heat retention, enhances the delicate flavors of green tea varieties such as Sencha and Gyokuro.
Can I use a Yokade Kyusu for other types of tea?
- Yes you can use a Yokade Kyusu for other light teas that require lower brewing temperatures, such as white tea. However, avoid using it for teas that require boiling water or extended steeping times as this may damage the pot.
Why is the handle on the side of a Yokade Kyusu?
- The side handle allows for easier pouring and handling, especially when the teapot is full. This design is particularly useful for serving multiple small cups quickly and efficiently, as is often done in Japanese tea ceremonies.
Does the material of a Yokade Kyusu affect the taste of the tea?
- Yes, the material can significantly influence the taste of the tea. Ceramics and porcelains are preferred for their ability to evenly distribute heat, which is crucial for developing the nuanced flavors of high-quality green teas.