Japanese Tea Pots
The Kama and More!

Japanese tea pots are an important part of the Japanese tea ceremony.

It is a fascinating ceremony that few people understand.

There are a few special pieces of equipment that are needed to successfully perform it, one being the tea pot.

There are several different kinds of pots, all a little different.

Here's a look at some interesting things about them:

• Kama are metal pots or kettles. They are used to heat the water for making tea.

• They're traditionally made of cast iron and are usually cylindrical or round.
  
  
• They generally have a place on each side to insert a metal handle.

The kama is heated over a portable brazier or in a hearth built into the tea room floor. Kama can be used with or without a tripod.

• Tetsubin is another type of cast iron pot.
  
  
• These have a pouring spout and a handle attached. They look a little different from the kama.
  
  
• They are also traditionally heated over a charcoal fire. Often, there are attractive relief designs around the outside of the tetsubin.
  
  
• Big tetsubins may be up to five liters in capacity. Small ones are often only about a half liter.
  
  
• Tea is not usually brewed inside the tetsubin itself but in another vessel.

These can be made of cast iron. Although the iron is almost always glazed on the inside with enamel. This is to keep the iron out of the tea.

• Kyusu is a Japanese pot that is more often made of ceramic.
  
  
• Many of them include a strainer that fits inside the pot. This prevents leaves from getting into the cup.
  
  
• These are much smaller than the tetsubin and can also be very pretty.

Wow, the beauty of the different pots available in Japan is amazing. There are also adorable special cups, whisks, and many other implements.

Looking to have your own version of the tea ceremony? Or just like to collect interesting pots, or just looking for something unusual? There's sure to be something for you.

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