Chasen Hyappondate Kubo Tetsuzo

100 string type bamboo tea whisk brush for making usucha (thin tea)

Origin: Japan

Material: bamboo

Dimensions: 11cm

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Hand-crafted by Kubo Tetsuzo.

Chasen have a history dating back to the Muromachi era, when the son of Lord Takayama was asked by Murata Jukou, the original creator of Japanese tea ceremony, to create it specially. Until modern times the esteemed craftsmanship behind chasen was regarded as a Takayama family secret, an ancient technology deserving of careful transmission across the generations. Today the tradition of high-quality chasen is still alive through the dedicated hands of Japanese craftspeople.

Dip half of the hosaki (the tip of the chasen) into warm water to lend its bamboo bristles both softness and toughness; be sure not to get the entire hosaki wet. To help the chasen last longer, wash with clean warm water and dry naturally after using. Buying authentic chasen from Japan is highly recommended because Japanese bamboo tends to be tougher than other varieties, and snippets of the hosaki are less likely to come off in the tea. Chasen are meant to be disposable; please discard and buy another after repeated use.

Initiation:
Before first use, let it set in hot water for a few minutes. The curly ends will start straightening out as a natural reaction to water.
Hold it under running water before every use to have it damp.

Cleaning:
Carefully rinse it under running water. If needed, use your fingers to gently remove remaining matcha. Do not let the bamboo sit in water.
Do not use dishwasher, dryer or dish soap!

Storage:
Best way to store is on a Kusenaoshi (chasen holder) to help keep its shape. If you don’t have a holder, keep it looking upwards. Storing it that way may cause it to “close up”, straighten out. In that case, dampen it in running water and gently unfold it using your fingers. Never do that while dry!
Storing it in a too warm, dry place might cause the bamboo to split.

Lifespan:
The lifespan of a chasen depends very much on how it is handled and how frequently it is used. As soon as the ends of the straws start to break off, we recommend purchasing a new one, for the ends can even break off while preparing matcha.