Inoue Tea Hanafubuki Banko-yaki Kyusu

Bankoyaki is a traditional Japanese clay known for its porous structure. Over time, these pores absorb the essential oils and tannins from your tea, which can subtly enhance the flavor profile of the leaves you brew most frequently.

Because the clay is porous, you should avoid using soap or detergents, as the material will absorb the scent and affect future brews. Simply rinse the pot thoroughly with hot water after each use and allow it to air dry completely.

The side-handle, or 'yokode,' is designed to provide excellent leverage and balance regardless of your dominant hand. It allows for a smooth, controlled pour that is often more ergonomic than a traditional top-handle teapot.

No, this Kyusu is not stovetop safe. It is designed specifically for brewing tea with water that has already been heated in a separate kettle.

Yes, the integrated strainer is designed to catch most leaf particles. However, because it is a built-in ceramic or metal mesh style, very fine tea dust may occasionally pass through, which is common with traditional Japanese Kyusu.

Because the clay is porous and absorbs flavors, it is best to dedicate this pot to a single type of tea—such as green tea or oolong—to avoid cross-contamination of flavors. If you drink a wide variety of teas, you might want to rinse it very thoroughly between uses or choose a glazed pot instead.