A YUNOMI is a traditional, handleless, vertically-oriented Japanese vessel crafted for enjoying everyday tea. Holding it with one or both hands allows you to directly experience the warmth and texture of the tea with all five senses.
YUNOMI - Japanese Tea Cup
Cradled in the palms of your hands, a YUNOMI conveys the gentle warmth of tea and the tactile respiration of the earth.
In daily life, this vessel offers the most intimate encounter with Japanese aesthetics.
WANOVA curates gallery-quality pieces where the artisan's spirit and the elements of nature converge.
Each profile embodies the concept of yo-no-bi (beauty in utility), elevating the simple gesture of pouring and sipping into a serene, reflective ritual.
Observe how the ceramic texture transforms under shifting light and seasons.
Discover a singular vessel that cradles a quiet universe within your hands.
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FAQs
What is a YUNOMI ?
How does a YUNOMI differ from a CHAWAN or a western mug?
While a CHAWAn is a larger, ceremonial bowl used specifically for matcha in the tea ceremony, a YUNOMI is designed for casual, daily teas like SENCHA or HOJICHA. Unlike western mugs, its lack of a handle invites you to connect with the vessel's form and material directly through your palms.
How do I choose the right size and shape ?
Generally, thin-walled, smaller cups are ideal for appreciating the subtle aroma of high-quality SENCHA, while thicker, larger cups suit hot, robust teas like HOJICHA . Choose a piece that nests naturally in your hands and offers a comforting weight.
How can I pair it with different teas, or use it for other purposes ?
Fine porcelain with a white or pale interior beautifully highlights the vivid hue of Gyokuro and SENCHA. Earthy stoneware complements the rich, roasted aroma of HOJICHA. Beyond tea, a YUNOMI serves elegantly as a vessel for sake, appetizers, or desserts on the modern table.
Should I change my YUNOMI according to the season ?
Embracing seasonal transitions brings a poetic rhythm to daily life.
In spring and summer, thin porcelain or wide-rimmed profiles offer a refreshing clarity.
In autumn and winter, thick stoneware or taller cylindrical shapes retain heat, enveloping your hands in comfort.
What is the difference between earthenware (touki) and porcelain (jiki)?
Earthenware (touki) is crafted from natural clay, valued for its rustic texture, warmth, and the way it beautifully patinas over time. Porcelain (jiki) is made from crushed stone, offering a smooth touch, durability, and a refined, translucent quality under the light.
What are the guidelines for care and preservation ?
For earthenware, gently seasoning it with rice water (medome) before first use minimizes staining.
Wash by hand with a soft sponge and dry completely before storing. To protect the integrity of these artisanal creations, we recommend avoiding dishwashers and microwaves.
What should I consider when choosing a YUNOMI as a gift?
As a vessel designed for daily appreciation, a YUNOMI makes an exceptional gift for weddings, anniversaries, or milestones.
Gifting a matching pair of differing sizes, traditionally known as Meoto-YUNOMI is a thoughtful way to celebrate couples.
The Guide to Japanese Culture
The Art of the YUNOMI -Japanese Tea Cup
Explore the world of the Japanese tea cup YUNOMI through history, craftsmanship, tea ceremony, and contemporary aesthetics. Discover why the YUNOMI remains one of Japan’s most enduring cultural forms.
Japanese Ceramics
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