A tetsubin is a traditional Japanese cast iron kettle used exclusively for boiling water. Initially used for tea ceremonies, a similar craft arrived in Japan through Buddhism from China. Nowadays, iron teapots are very popular for their beautiful design, but the kettles are actually very different. Producing an artisanal tetsubin requires great skills, and they often become pieces of art. The taste of tea, minerals retention benefits, and price change accordingly. Read here a few facts that surprised me while learning about this craft.

1. Only for Boiling Water: Tetsubin vs. Tetsukyūsu

Tetsubin is only for boiling water, while a cast iron teapot designed for brewing tea is called a tetsukyūsu. The primary distinction is the interior: a tetsukyūsu features an enamel coating that prevents direct heat application, while a tetsubin lacks this coating, making it suitable for use over a fire. Tetsukyūsu is a modern, non-traditional item that gained popularity for its durability and aesthetic appeal in international markets. They can cost as low as 20$.

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2. Handmade vs. Mass-Produced

Tetsubin production, moreover, falls into two categories:

Artisanal Tetsubin are made using clay molds, these unique pieces of art can cost up to $2,000. Their intricate designs are crafted with precision and are mainly purchased by collectors.

Commercial Tetsubin are created with reusable sand molds, these are less expensive (around $300) yet maintain excellent quality, making them more accessible for daily use.

3. Longevity

A well-maintained tetsubin can last a lifetime and become a treasured family heirloom. To ensure longevity, it is necessary however to handle it with care and dry it thoroughly after each use. The older the kettle, the more wabi-sabi you can experience.

4. Time-Consuming Craft

Crafting one of these pieces is a very labor-intensive process, and in the artisanal setting, up to 70% of the work is focused only on creating the mold. Intricate patterns, such as dot designs, may involve thousands of hand-applied details, greatly influencing the price and value of each kettle.

5. Molds Destroyed After Each Use

Despite the time spent on the first phase, interior molds must be destroyed after every production for the kettle extraction. Interestingly, the deriving sand is recycled for future molds and can be reused for generations. The outer molds can fortunately be reused, but only up to two or three times for the same design.

6. A Physically Demanding Art

Crafting tetsubin requires exceptional strength and expertise, as artisans must handle molten iron at temperatures reaching up to 1,500°C. It takes at least 15 years of training to master the precise fire temperature control and finishing techniques needed to create a perfect item.

7. Specialized Roles in Crafting

Even the handles are crafted by specialized artisans, explaining even further the expertise required in every step of production.

8. Enhancing Taste

Unlike enamel-coated kettles, a tetsubin enhances water quality by releasing iron ions. These ions neutralize chlorine and soften water, resulting in a smoother, more refined taste. Ideal for tea.

9. Different Brands, Different Tastes

The taste of boiled water can vary depending on the brand or artisan producing the kettle. Factors like the mineral composition of the iron and the specific casting techniques employed create subtle differences in flavor.

10. Limited Areas of Production

The tetsubin-making tradition originated in the Nanbu clan of Morioka, Iwate. Today, Morioka, Mizusawa, and Yamagata are the primary centers for cast iron kettle production, each region offering distinct styles. Kyoto, once a hub for this craft, no longer produces tetsubin.

11. You can experience tetsubin without owning one

You can enjoy the unique taste of tetsubin-boiled beverages in Japan at locations like Engawa Cafe in Morioka or North Coffee Tokyo near Otsuka Station. These venues offer a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship and flavor without purchasing a kettle.

Tetsubin represents a harmonious blend of tradition, art, and functionality. Whether for its cultural significance or its ability to transform water, this Japanese kettle continues to captivate tea enthusiasts worldwide.

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