Teacups

Japanese teacups and mugs range in size from egg cup to the gigantic mug served at sushi shops, and have no handle as the tea is normally drunk lukewarm. The tall cups usually have a lid and a husband and wife set are also available consisting of a pair of cups, one slightly larger than the other, with lids and saucers. Saucers are wooden, either plain or lacquered.

The tea ceremony is a totally different affair from daily tea drinking. Bowls rather than cups are used and the powdered tea is whisked, using a bamboo brush, in front of the guests.