This "Sunset" Akafuki Tenmoku Chawan is a good example of how subtle glazing techniques can elevate a simple form. The term Akafuki (赤吹) refers to the red spray or blush of glaze across the bowl. On this bowl, the red isn’t flat or uniform — it shifts in tone from deep crimson to dark burgundy, fading into the dark of traditional Tenmoku ware. The color seems to change depending on the light and angle.
Tenmoku (天目) refers to a style of tea bowl that originally came from Chinese Jian ware and was adopted in Japan for Chanoyu. Known for their dark glazes and deep, reflective surfaces, Tenmoku bowls are admired for their quiet presence and grounding quality. Akafuki Tenmoku Chawan keeps that spirit but adds a warmer, more expressive edge with the red glaze.
The shape is solid and comfortable in the hands, with a slightly uneven rim that gives it a natural, hand-formed feel. There’s a satisfying weight to it, enough to feel sturdy but not heavy. The inside of the bowl echoes the outside, with that same moody red fading into black. It’s a bowl that invites focus, whether you’re whisking matcha or just holding it quietly for a moment before the first sip.
Whether you’re using it for daily tea or your Cha No Yu practice, Akafuki Tenmoku chawan brings a sense of depth and warmth to the matcha-making experience — classic, but with a spark of something a little different.
Capacity: 12fl oz / 355ml
Material: Pottery. Glazed.
Size: 5.25 x 3inch / 13.3 x 7.6cm
NOTE: Each Chawan is handcrafted, making each matcha bowl unique. The Chawan delivered may not be exactly as pictured but will be crafted in the same style, shape, and spirit.
NOTE: Avoid using detergents when cleaning.