Recommendation Service
- TOP
- Kitchen
- Coffee and tea products
- 8 Best Japanese Cast-Iron Teapots in 2023 (Kitsusako, Iwachu, and More)
8 Best Japanese Cast-Iron Teapots in 2023 (Kitsusako, Iwachu, and More)
Are you a tea lover that wants to make Japanese tea in the traditional way? Do you want to maximize the experience? Then consider Japanese cast-iron teapots! Japanese cast-iron teapots offer several unique advantages, such as imparting extra flavor to your tea, heating quickly, and retaining heat for longer. They’re also intricately designed, and some are even beautiful enough to be gifted or served during parties. They can also add an extra layer of authenticity to your green tea, helping set the mood when you want to enjoy a quiet cup of tea.
The right teapot for you will depend on its type, size, and various other factors. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of the best 4 cast-iron Japanese teapots online. Our favorite is Kitsusako’s Nanbu Tekki Teapot because of the quality of its ironware and its convenient size. Continue reading to see what else we recommend, and be sure to check out the buying guide!
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
Table of Contents
What Is a Japanese Teapot?
Japanese cast-iron teapots have a long history, with their origins dating back to around the late 17th to early 18th century, and have since become a long-standing staple in the art of Japanese tea ceremony. Designs can range from simple and plain to decorative and embellished, with earlier teapots usually being the former, gradually incorporating more design elements from the 19th century.
The Tohoku region is well-known for cast iron production, and cities such as Yamagata, Morioka, and Mizusawa are notable producers. Morioka city is especially famous for producing ironware known as "Nambu tekki." It's known for its rust resistance, longevity, insulation, and heat distribution.
Japanese cast-iron teapots, similar to cast-iron skillets, can be used for generations if cared for properly and can make your Japanese tea, like green tea or hojicha, taste better, thanks to their properties.
Japanese cast-iron teapots come in two variants, tetsubin and tetsukyusu. While both are made of cast iron, they have different uses and features, such as the following:
Tetsubin
- Used to boil water for pouring onto tea leaves
- Can be heated directly
- Imparts iron and extra flavor to water
- Requires more care to prevent rust
- Used to brew tea inside the pot
- Cannot be heated directly
- Often coated with enamel on the inside
- Requires less maintenance and care
How to Choose a Japanese-Style Cast Iron Teapot - Buying Guide
There is a lot to consider when purchasing a Japanese-style cast iron teapot, including the style, capacity, and handle design.
① Tetsubins Enhance the Flavor of Water but Are Not for Brewing Teas
Tetsubins are not coasted with enamel on the inside. However, they may be glazed with urushi lacquer, a coloring material that also aids in preventing corrosion. The lack of enamel means that tetsubins can be heated directly on the stovetop.
However, tetsubins are not meant for brewing tea. Tetsubins are used to boil water, and the tea is brewed in a different vessel. This means that you can also use a tetsubin to make hot water for coffee or instant noodles!
Usually, water molecules attach to each other, giving water its plain taste. In a tetsubin, water molecules bond with the cast iron's metal ions. These bonds affect the viscosity and surface tension of the water, resulting in a stronger water taste. Our mouths interpret this flavor as deeper, sweeter, and longer-lasting.
Additionally, research has proven that cooking foods for a long time in cast iron skillets increased the iron content significantly. Therefore, boiling water in a tetsubin may also leave traces of iron in the water, which may be beneficial for those with a deficiency.
Tetsubins can last a long time if maintained properly. However, they will develop red and white spots as a result of calcium carbonate buildup. Though it's visually scary, this is actually a good sign! This buildup contributes to the taste while preventing rust.
② Consider Features Like the Size, Handle, and Accessories
We recommend going for at least a mid-range size as most manufacturers urge drinkers not to fill over 70 percent of the total capacity to prevent spills when boiling. However, keep in mind that cast iron is heavy, so larger teapots may be more difficult to pour.
For handles, most are made from the same iron material as the body. Some handles may get hot if the teapot is heated directly on the stove, particularly when heated for a long time. Some teapots, especially manufactured tetsukyusus, use anti-scalding material such as twine to prevent burns.
Some teapots also come in a set with additional items like matching tea cups, saucers, trivets, and even lid holders. If you plan on gifting a teapot to someone or if you want to impress your guests, consider going for a complete set.
4
Best Japanese Cast-Iron Teapots Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Kitsusako Nanbu Tekki Teapot | | Best All-Around Tetsubin for Small Groups | |
2 | Oigen Nambu Tekkettle | | Best Classic Nambu Tetsubin | |
3 | Itchu-do Octagonal Iron Pot | | Best Cast Iron Teapot with a Unique Shape | |
4 | Old Dutch Cast Iron Hakone Teapot | | Best Large-Capacity Cast Iron Teapot |
KitsusakoNanbu Tekki Teapot
Best All-Around Tetsubin for Small Groups
Pros
- Comes with a non-slip trivet
- Stovetop-safe
- Interior is coated with lacquer to prevent rust
- Nambu cast iron
Cons
- Reports that the lid’s knob can get hot
This is a non-enameled Nambu cast iron teapot, a type of ironware known for its craftsmanship. It has a 3.4 cup capacity, making it an excellent tetsubin choice for one person. It also comes with a trivet that has feet made of rubber, which prevents it from slipping.
Some reviewers commented that the knob can get hot, making it dangerous to touch. However, others were impressed by how the water tasted milder than electric tea kettles. Many also felt that it was a solid tetsubin for first-time buyers.
OigenNambu Tekkettle
Best Classic Nambu Tetsubin
- Authentic Nambu style production and design
- Thick bottom prevents warping
- Stovetop-safe
Cons
- Reports say that it’s a little heavy
- Instructions are in Japanese
This tortoiseshell-style teapot is made in Iwate, one of the most famous areas for cast iron in Japan. It has a thick bottom, which is good for preventing deformations. Due to the quality of the materials used, this teapot is quite heavy.
Since the instructions are in Japanese, this teapot may be best suited for those who have experience in owning a tetsubin. Overall, however, most loved the quality craftsmanship and compact size. Some also commented that it holds up to continued use very well!
Itchu-doOctagonal Iron Pot
Best Cast Iron Teapot with a Unique Shape
Pros
- Nambu cast iron ware
- Unique octagonal modern design
- Coated with lacquer
- Stovetop-safe
Cons
- Reports that it’s a little heavy
Moreido’s cast iron teapot is uniquely octagonal shape, which may appeal to those who prefer modern design. It's stovetop-safe, and the inside of the pot is coated with urushi lacquer to prevent corrosion.
Some reviewers commented that this kettle is quite heavy. In spite of this, many appreciated the unique design and compact size. They also reported that it makes delicious mild-tasting water.
Old DutchCast Iron Hakone Teapot
Best Large-Capacity Cast Iron Teapot
Pros
- Holds 12.7 cups
- Enameled interior for easier upkeep
- Available in several sizes and styles
Cons
- Contradicting product information
This cast iron teapot is made by Old Dutch and has a large capacity that's perfect for groups or families. Plus, the interior is coated with enamel for easier maintenance.
Some product descriptions say it's stovetop-safe; however, due to the enamel, we don't recommend this. Overall, most reviewers were glad to find a cast iron pot of this size, confirming that it's great for avid tea-drinkers. They also liked that it's easy to use and clean.
Use Your Kettle With These Japanese Teas!
What's a teapot without tea? Now that you've got your Japanese cast-iron teakettle, it's time to look at the best Japanese teas to brew with it. Check out our buying guides and top picks from the links below.
Top 4 Japanese Cast-Iron Teapots
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Related Articles
- 9 Best Reusable Ice Cubes in 2023 (Balls of Steel, Urban Essentials, and More)Reusable Ice CubesIt’s summer, it’s hot, and you just want a cold drink. But it’s hard to ignore the fact that your ice cubes will water down your drink as they melt. Reusable ice cubes are a great solution to this issue, as they're made of frozen synthetics like silicon gel and won't melt at all. You can also use them as many times as you want! We've done the research for you and created this list of the nine best reusable ice cubes on the market this year. Our favorite reusable ice cubes are Urban Essentials' Reusable Freezable Ice Cubes. They're safe and easy to use, and those who have purchased them love their design. Read on to learn more about our other picks and a buying guide at the end.
- 10 Best Apple Slicers in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)Apple SlicersFor breakfast, lunch, or a snack, apples are a delicious treat, but slicing them by hand can be a time-consuming hassle. Enter the apple slicer, a simple and invaluable gadget that makes eating and serving apples just that much easier. Apple slicers are not bulky or intricate machines. They’re typically small, convenient, and can be stored in your cupboard easily and safely.Whether you’re making apple slices with peanut butter, apple crostini, or applesauce, we’ll help you find the right apple slicer for you. Our favorite slicer is Progressive International's Apple Slicer, because after you slice, you can flip up the safety cover to push the slices all the way through for a clean cut every time. When you're done checking out our 10 favorites, be sure to check out our buying guide, reviewed by a professional chef, for more helpful info!
- 5 Best Double Boiler Sets in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)PotsSome of the most delicious things require a little bit more finesse than the average kitchen is prepared to give. Think melted chocolate, hollandaise sauce, or even reliably unburnt stovetop rice. For that, you need a double boiler, which is essentially a pot on top of a pot of boiling water that will give you lower, more even heat.Picking out a double boiler can seem like a bit of a chore; there are a ton of options, and they all look more or less the same. In this guide, which was reviewed by a professional chef, we’ll go over the things you should specifically look for when deciding which double boiler is best for your needs. Our 5 best list introduces double boiler sets, so you can find what fits you best; our favorite was La Patisserie's set. Having a glass lid, is made of tri-ply stainless steel, and has long handles to protect you from the heat.
- 10 Best Cotton Candy Machines in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)Cotton Candy MachinesDo you find yourself missing the fair and the sweet, cloud-like sticks of cotton candy that comes with it? Or maybe you need cotton candy for a larger event and are seeking a machine for commercial use. Either way, you don't have to go all the way to the county fair or to a festival to find cotton candy these days. There are plenty of great machines that help you make it anywhere!There are so many things to consider when buying a cotton candy machine. Is it easy to use? How messy will the process be? Do I need a counter-top machine or a cart? We've saved you the trouble by doing all the necessary research and curating a list of the 8 best cotton candy machines this year! Our favorite is The Candery's Cotton Candy Machine and Sugar Kit. The compact design and ease of use can't be topped, and having extra sugar floss added to the package makes it an instant winner at parties and family gatherings alike.
- 8 Best Silicone Stretch Lids in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)Silicone Stretch LidsWe’ve all heard by now that plastic isn’t the best thing to be using, especially in the kitchen. But food can’t just be exposed all the time, and sometimes Tupperware just won't cut it. That's why we’ve searched the Internet to uncover the best silicone stretch lids available.After poring over descriptions and reviews, we’ve come to the conclusion that the best lids are made from food-safe materials, stretch to fit the size and shape of your containers, and meet your organizational needs. That's why we love Mockins Silicone Stretch and Suction Lids! Keeping these things in mind, we’ve selected some of the best silicone stretch lids available online. We've also included a buying guide reviewed by a professional chef full of tips to help you while shopping.
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Kitchen Shears in 2023 (Remy, Kiya, and More)Japanese Kitchen ShearsKitchen shears, or kitchen scissors, have a multitude of uses, from cutting meat, fish, and vegetables, but also for cutting paper cartons and plastic pouches. Japanese kitchen scissors are sold by cooking utensil manufacturers such as Kai, Shimomura Kogyo, and Toribe Manufacturing. With so much variety, you may be wondering what kind of products are the best to buy.Our editors combed through Japanese e-commerce sites such as Amazon, Rakuten, and Yahoo! Shopping for the best Japanese kitchen shears available online. We then picked out the 10 most popular products and tested them for the following:SharpnessUsabilityEase of maintenanceKeep on reading to find out which were our top picks for the best Japanese kitchen shears!
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Knife Sharpeners in 2023 (Kyocera, Nitori, and More)Japanese Knife SharpenersAre your kitchen knives as sharp as they should be? Do you want your Japanese knives to cut as sharp as they once did? Do you need a knife sharpener that can sharpen your hagane steel knife? If your answer is "Maybe?" then you probably need to invest in a Japanese knife sharpener! Japanese knife sharpeners come in different shapes and types, including manual and electric. However, with so many brands, like Kai Corporation, Yoshida Metal Industries, and Daiso, all offering different types of sharpeners it can be difficult to decide on a Japanese knife sharpener that truly makes your knives sharp.To figure out the best Japanese knife sharpener, we gathered the 32 best-selling Japanese knife sharpeners on e-commerce sites popular in Japan, such as Amazon, Rakuten, and Yahoo! Shopping, and tested them all.We tested each product for the following:How well it sharpens our knivesHow easy is it to useHow easy it is to storeWe then ranked the 10 best Japanese knife sharpeners in 2022 based on our tests. We also put together a buying guide to help you choose the best Japanese knife sharpeners for you.
- 10 Best Chopsticks in 2023 (Ramen Blogger-Reviewed)ChopsticksThere are multiple types of chopsticks which are influenced by different cultures. Typically, Japanese chopsticks are shorter and pointier than Chinese ones. On the other hand, Korean chopsticks tend to be made from metal rather than wood or bamboo as in the case of Vietnamese chopsticks.The plethora of chopstick options probably makes it much tougher to choose. After browsing through many different kinds of chopsticks on the Internet, we put together a list of 10 best chopsticks as well as a buying guide at the end to help you narrow down your choices! Read on for more details, including our top choice by HuaLan.
- 10 Best Stovetop Espresso Makers in 2023 (Bialetti, Primula, and More)Stovetop Espresso MakersIf you are a coffee enthusiast, you probably spend a lot of money at cafes. But you can still enjoy a cup of strong yet affordable espresso from the comfort of your home with a stovetop espresso maker, also known as a moka pot! Many coffee lovers enjoy how simple stovetop espresso makers are. They are easy to use and clean and considered a great energy-saving option compared to fancy espresso machines.We searched for the best stovetop espresso makers with superior construction and quality brewing that create an excellent user experience. We picked LuxHaus' Stovetop Espresso Maker as our top choice since it's made of durable stainless steel, is compatible with all stovetops, and is dishwasher-safe. Check out our other nine top choices along with our buying guide that comes with professional advice from our expert, a coffee shop owner and barista.
- 12 Best Tea Kettles in 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]Tea KettlesA kettle is a must-have item in many kitchens, and they add a homey touch when sitting on your stove, too. They come in various shapes, designs, and materials, like stainless steel, enamel, and heat-resistant glass, and with all these options from brands like OXO and Mr. Coffee, choosing the perfect kettle can be challenging.
Popular articles
- 10 Best Stovetop Espresso Makers in 2023 (Bialetti, Primula, and More)Stovetop Espresso MakersIf you are a coffee enthusiast, you probably spend a lot of money at cafes. But you can still enjoy a cup of strong yet affordable espresso from the comfort of your home with a stovetop espresso maker, also known as a moka pot! Many coffee lovers enjoy how simple stovetop espresso makers are. They are easy to use and clean and considered a great energy-saving option compared to fancy espresso machines.We searched for the best stovetop espresso makers with superior construction and quality brewing that create an excellent user experience. We picked LuxHaus' Stovetop Espresso Maker as our top choice since it's made of durable stainless steel, is compatible with all stovetops, and is dishwasher-safe. Check out our other nine top choices along with our buying guide that comes with professional advice from our expert, a coffee shop owner and barista.
- 12 Best Tea Kettles in 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]Tea KettlesA kettle is a must-have item in many kitchens, and they add a homey touch when sitting on your stove, too. They come in various shapes, designs, and materials, like stainless steel, enamel, and heat-resistant glass, and with all these options from brands like OXO and Mr. Coffee, choosing the perfect kettle can be challenging.
- 10 Best Electric Rice Cookers in 2023 (Zojirushi, Panasonic, and More)KitchenDo you struggle to make dinner after a long day at work? Or perhaps you have trouble cooking rice on the stove? Try an electric rice cooker! Electric rice cookers create perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. Rice cookers have even become so advanced that they can function as slow cookers or home bakeries, which means your whole meal will be ready and waiting for you. After a ton of research, we've selected the 10 best electric rice cookers. The number one spot goes to the Induction Heating Pressure Cooker and Warmer from one of the rice cooker kings, Zojirushi, due to its high performance and longevity. Keep reading for the rest of our favorites, and check out our buying guide for plenty of tips.
- 11 Best Knife Sharpeners in 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]Knife SharpenersKnife sharpeners bring your kitchen knives back to life and make them work like new again. Using a sharp knife makes your work in the kitchen easier and frees up time. There are an abundance of kitchen sharpeners on the market from makers like KITCHELLENCE, Smith's, Chef's Choice, and Workshop, but it can be hard to decide which one is worth the investment.
- 8 Best Silicone Stretch Lids in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)Silicone Stretch LidsWe’ve all heard by now that plastic isn’t the best thing to be using, especially in the kitchen. But food can’t just be exposed all the time, and sometimes Tupperware just won't cut it. That's why we’ve searched the Internet to uncover the best silicone stretch lids available.After poring over descriptions and reviews, we’ve come to the conclusion that the best lids are made from food-safe materials, stretch to fit the size and shape of your containers, and meet your organizational needs. That's why we love Mockins Silicone Stretch and Suction Lids! Keeping these things in mind, we’ve selected some of the best silicone stretch lids available online. We've also included a buying guide reviewed by a professional chef full of tips to help you while shopping.
- 12 Best Mandoline Slicers in 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]Mandoline SlicerA mandoline slicer lets you quickly and easily slice your vegetables. Choose one that can dice or cut julienne strips, and your daily cooking will become more enjoyable, time-efficient, and convenient. However, when it comes to buying one, it can be overwhelming to choose from a wide range of products offered from brands like Kyocera, OXO, and Pampered Chef.We've compared 12 bestselling slicers available online and put them to the test to recommend the best product for you.
- 11 Best Salad Spinners in 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]Salad spinnersA salad spinner can wick the water off of leafy greens quickly and with ease. They come in handy when making salads or sandwiches, but with so many products from different brands like OXO, Zyliss, and Cuisinart out there, how can you know which one would work best for you?
- 10 Best Chopsticks in 2023 (Ramen Blogger-Reviewed)ChopsticksThere are multiple types of chopsticks which are influenced by different cultures. Typically, Japanese chopsticks are shorter and pointier than Chinese ones. On the other hand, Korean chopsticks tend to be made from metal rather than wood or bamboo as in the case of Vietnamese chopsticks.The plethora of chopstick options probably makes it much tougher to choose. After browsing through many different kinds of chopsticks on the Internet, we put together a list of 10 best chopsticks as well as a buying guide at the end to help you narrow down your choices! Read on for more details, including our top choice by HuaLan.
- 10 Best Basting Brushes in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)Cooking utensilsWhether you plan to use a basting brush for pastries or grilling, the key is to find one that can hold a good amount of liquids for easy spreading. But because of the many options available, you may wonder how are they different and what needs to be considered when buying a basting brush. That's why we've researched some of the best basting brushes out there to help you make an easier decision! Take a look at our top pick on the list, M Kitchen World's Pastry Brush. It's highly heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe, can hold a sufficient amount of liquids, and comes in a set of two different sizes. Want to know more? Check out our other highly recommended products on the top 10 list! And don't forget to check our buying guide reviewed by a chef to know what needs to be considered before you decide to buy one.
- 10 Best Canning Funnels in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)Canning FunnelsHome canning is a fun way of preserving your garden's bounty to enjoy all year round. However, it can be really messy as you pour liquids from a pot into a jar. If you're tired of cleaning up all the spills and splatters, a canning funnel is the perfect solution. With it, you can transfer ingredients quickly and totally mess-free! Although there's an abundance of canning funnels to choose from, we've compiled a list of the 10 best ones available. We chose Progressive International's Prepworks Canning Funnel as our favorite, because it has headspace measurement marks, fits wide-mouth and regular jars, and sits upright on a countertop. To see the other funnels we recommend and for tips on how to choose the right one, check out the rest of our list as well as our buying guide reviewed by a professional chef down below!
Search by category
Apps
Business apps, Cooking apps, Dating appsHome goods
Bath supplies, Ceremonial occasion supplies, Cleaning suppliesHome electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, AV accessories, Blenders and food processorsPC
Computer supplies, Desktop computers, TabletsCamera
Camera bags and backpacks, Camera supplies, Digital single lens camerasBeauty
Blushes, Bronzers, CleansersHealth
Body care products, Health accessories, Health foods and supplementsFood and drinks
Alcohol, Breads and jams, Cocktails and ready-to-drink alcoholic beveragesKitchen
Coffee and tea products, Cooking utensils, CupsFashion
Footwear products, Men's shoes, SandalsShoes
Accessories
Wristwatches, Accessories and jewelry, Umbrellas and parasolsKids and baby
Baby carriers, Baby food, Baby formulaInterior
Beds, Beds and bedding, ChairsHobbies
Aromatherapy products, Art supplies, Arts and collectiblesOutdoor
Barbecue grills and fire pits, Camping beds and cots, Camping gearHome, garden, and tools
Agricultural materials and gardening supplies, Exterior and garden furniture, Materials and repairing agentsSports and fitness
Sports shoes, Surfing supplies, Badminton suppliesPets
Bird and small animal supplies, Cat supplies, Dog suppliesMedia
Books and magazines, CD, Children's books, picture books and illustrated encyclopediasGames
Gaming accessories, Nintendo Switch games, PC gamesAutomotive
Car accessories, Car navigation systemsGifts
Christmas gifts, Father's Day gifts, Gifts for childrenMobile devices
Mobile phone and smartphone accessories, Wearable devices and smart watches