Chasen No. 108 · Dark Bamboo, 56 Tines · Koicha

Naturally dark bamboo · black thread · straight tines · one of a kind

A darker, more rustic chasen: naturally dark bamboo with around 56 straight, sturdy outer tines set in a clean, open sunburst rather than a fine curl, bound in black thread with a short tassel. Its box marks it as a whisk in the style of the Kankyū-an (Mushakōji-Senke) tea tradition — strength suited to kneading a thick koicha.

Hand-cut and tied from a single piece of bamboo in Takayama, Nara — the district that makes more than 90% of Japan's chasen, where fewer than twenty artisans still practise the craft. From one of four independent makers we work with; out of respect for them, we don't share names or workshops. One of a kind — we have only this piece.

Care: rest on a whisk holder (kusenaoki) to keep its shape, rinse in warm water only, and air-dry. Never soak or machine-wash.