Made in Japan

KIYOMIZU WARE SAKE CUP BY Kōhō KILN | AKAFUJI 赤富士 | NISHIKAWA

£108.00

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Exceptional in Japanese character, Akafuji favours iconic imagery and expressive hand-painting over elaborate decoration, turning a simple sake cup into a vivid portrait of Japan.

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KIYOMIZU WARE SAKE CUP BY Kōhō KILN | AKAFUJI 赤富士 | NISHIKAWA

£108.00

Taxes included.Shipping calculated at checkout.

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Single Cup Pair - 2 cups Pair - Ukiyo-e pair

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A vivid interpretation of one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes, hand-painted in the celebrated image of the Red Fuji.

Description

Akafuji (赤富士), or “Red Fuji”, captures Mount Fuji at one of its most distinctive moments — its slopes transformed into shades of warm red beneath a pale sky.

The image of Red Fuji has a long presence in Japanese visual culture and is perhaps most internationally recognisable through traditional Japanese art. Rather than pursuing elaborate ornamentation, this Kiyomizu ware cup from Kōhō Kiln (光抱窯) keeps the composition deliberately simple: the brilliant red-orange mountain dominates the vessel, outlined against soft blue-grey skies, drifting white clouds and a small sweep of green at its base.

Viewed around the cup, the landscape continues beyond the principal face of Mount Fuji, allowing the painting to follow the cylindrical form rather than appearing as a single isolated motif.

The result feels distinctly different from the more intricate gold-decorated pieces in the Kōhō collection. There is less emphasis on decorative complexity here; instead, Akafuji relies on colour, brushwork and an immediately recognisable Japanese subject.

Its appeal lies precisely in that simplicity — a small piece of Kyoto pottery carrying one of the most enduring images of Japan.

A simple yet unmistakably Japanese piece, bringing the iconic image of Red Fuji to life through expressive colour and hand-painted Kyoto craftsmanship.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Brand: Nishikawa
Origin: Kyoto, Japan
Ware: Kiyomizu Ware / Kyo Ware
Kiln: Kōhō Kiln (光抱窯)
Design: Akafuji (赤富士 / Red Fuji)
Motif: Mount Fuji, clouds and landscape
Decoration: Hand-painted
Finish: Glazed
Use: Sake cup / small drinking vessel
Character: Each handmade and hand-painted piece may show slight variations in colour, brushwork and form
Care: Hand wash only. Not suitable for Microwave, dishwasher, freezer, oven, or direct flame use

Notes
Each piece is handcrafted, with slight variations in form and texture. Subtle glaze variations are a natural characteristic of the making process and add to the unique expression of each piece.

Shipping
Shipped directly from the UK warehouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sake, and where did sake originate?

Sake (日本酒, nihonshu) is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made by fermenting rice, water, yeast, and koji mould. Unlike wine, which is made from fermented fruit, or beer, which is brewed from malted grains, sake uses a unique multiple-fermentation process that gives it a smooth, complex flavour.

Sake has been enjoyed in Japan for over 1,000 years and has long been associated with religious ceremonies, seasonal festivals, and celebrations. Originally brewed for Shinto rituals, it gradually became an important part of Japanese dining culture and is now enjoyed around the world.

What does sake taste like?

Sake offers a wide range of flavours depending on its style. It may be:

Light and crisp
Fruity and floral
Rich and umami
Smooth and creamy

Unlike many spirits, sake is generally lower in acidity and tannins, making it easy to pair with a variety of foods.

Most sake containsaround 13–16% alcohol by volume (ABV), making it stronger than beer but usually lighter than whisky or other distilled spirits.

Is sake served hot or cold?

Both. One of the unique qualities of sake is that it can be enjoyed at different temperatures.

Chilled – highlights fresh, fruity, and aromatic styles.
Room temperature – offers a balanced expression of flavour.
Warm or hot – enhances richer, fuller-bodied sake, especially during colder months.

The best serving temperature depends on the style of sake and personal preference.

When is sake traditionally enjoyed?

Sake is enjoyed throughout the year and is often served during:

Family meals
Festivals (Matsuri)
New Year celebrations
Weddings
Cherry blossom viewing (Hanami)
Special occasions and celebrations

Today, many people also enjoy sake casually with everyday meals.

Sake is often poured from a Tokkuri (sake carafe) into small cups such as an Ochoko or Guinomi.

In Japan, it is considered polite to pour sake for others rather than for yourself, making sake drinking a social tradition that celebrates hospitality and friendship.

What's the difference between an Ochoko and a Guinomi?

Both are traditional Japanese sake cups, but they serve slightly different purposes. An ochoko is typically smaller and used for formal sake serving, while a guinomi is slightly larger, allowing you to enjoy sake or other spirits at a more relaxed pace.

Can these cups be used for drinks other than sake?

Absolutely. While traditionally designed for sake, many of our handcrafted ceramic cups are also perfect for Japanese whisky, bourbon, tequila, liqueurs, espresso, and other small servings. Their versatile size makes them suitable for both traditional and modern drinking rituals.

Are all your sake cups handmade in Japan?

Yes. Every sake cup and ceramic barware piece in this collection is handcrafted in Japan by skilled artisans. Each product page clearly states its place of origin, ensuring authentic Japanese craftsmanship.

What should I pair sake with?

Sake pairs beautifully with more than just sushi. It complements:

Sushi and sashimi
Grilled fish and seafood
Tempura
Yakitori
Tofu dishes
Cheese
Charcuterie
Light pasta and vegetable dishes

Its balanced umami character makes sake one of the most food-friendly alcoholic beverages.

What does Akafuji (赤富士) mean?

Akafuji literally means“Red Fuji”, referring to the striking appearance of Mount Fuji when the mountain takes on vivid reddish tones under particular atmospheric and light conditions.