Made in Japan

KIYOMIZU WARE SAKE CUP | AKAMAKI GOLD & SILVER CRANES 赤蒔金銀鶴 | NISHIKAWA

£108.00

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Rich in symbolism and craftsmanship, Akamaki Kingin Tsuru combines auspicious gold and silver cranes with a luminous red ground in a striking expression of Kyoto ceramic tradition.

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KIYOMIZU WARE SAKE CUP | AKAMAKI GOLD & SILVER CRANES 赤蒔金銀鶴 | NISHIKAWA

£108.00

Taxes included.Shipping calculated at checkout.

Quantity

SET

Single cup Pair - 2 cup Pair - Black + Red Set - Server (600ml) + Cup Set - Server (400ml) + cup

📦 Delivered from the UK

🚚 Free UK delivery over £60 or when you buy any 4 items

🎁 Gift wrapping available

🇯🇵 All products made in Japan

Gold and silver cranes sweep across a luminous red ground, bringing warmth, movement and auspicious beauty to this handcrafted Kyoto sake cup.

Akamaki Kingin Tsuru combines the refinement of Kiyomizu ware with one of Japan’s most enduring motifs, expressed through rich red colour and delicate metallic decoration.

Description

Rich in colour yet refined in composition, Akamaki Kingin Tsuru (赤蒔金銀鶴) presents a more radiant interpretation of the gold-and-silver crane motif.

Across the deep red exterior, two cranes appear in contrasting gold and silver, their wings extended in flight. Fine lines articulate the feathers and movement of each bird, while scattered cloud motifs in gold and silver create a sense of rhythm around the curved surface.

The red ground transforms the character of the decoration. Where black creates dramatic contrast and restraint, this warm crimson tone gives the metallic details a softer brilliance — particularly the gold crane, which seems almost illuminated against the glaze.

In Japanese visual culture, the crane — tsuru (鶴) is an enduring auspicious motif, traditionally associated with longevity and good fortune. Combined with red and gold — colours long connected with celebration and auspicious occasions in Japan — the imagery gives the cup an especially warm and celebratory presence.

The form itself remains beautifully intimate. A gently shaped body settles naturally into the hand, while the smooth glazed surface and softly coloured interior provide a tactile and visual counterpoint to the richly decorated exterior.

Turn the cup and the composition continues to unfold: first the gold crane, then clouds, then its silver counterpart. It is a design intended to be appreciated not from a single viewpoint, but through the simple act of holding and using the vessel.

Handcrafted as Kyo / Kiyomizu ware in Kyoto, each piece carries the subtle individuality of artisan production.

A functional sake cup, an auspicious object, and a small expression of Kyoto craftsmanship in equal measure.

Celebrate one of Japan’s most cherished symbols with the Akamaki Kingin Tsuru Guinomi, an elegant porcelain sake cup made in Japan. Finished in a striking vermillion red, the cup is decorated with graceful gold and silver cranes, creating a refined contrast that feels both festive and timeless.

A Guinomi is a traditional Japanese sake cup, appreciated not only for enjoying sake but also for the way its shape, size and material contribute to the drinking experience. Collecting different guinomi has long been part of Japanese sake culture, with each design bringing its own story and character to the table.

In Japanese culture, the crane (Tsuru / 鶴) is a celebrated symbol of longevity, good fortune and happiness. Against the rich red ground, the shimmering gold and silver details give the design an auspicious character, making this guinomi especially meaningful for celebrations, special occasions and gifting.

Traditionally used for sake, this versatile cup can also be enjoyed with sencha, gyokuro and other Japanese teas, or displayed as a decorative piece of Japanese ceramic craftsmanship.

Summary

A radiant Kiyomizu ware sake cup from Kyoto, bringing together a rich red ground, finely worked gold and silver cranes, and the auspicious beauty of traditional Japanese decorative art.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Brand: Nishikawa
Original Name: 赤蒔金銀鶴
Romanised Name: Akamaki Kingin Tsuru
Product: Sake Cup / Guinomi
Ware: Kyo Ware / Kiyomizu Ware
Origin: Kyoto, Japan
Design: Gold & Silver Cranes with stylised cloud motifs
Colour: Deep Red / Gold / Silver
Finish: Smooth glazed surface with metallic decorative detailing
Maker: Kōhō Kiln (光抱窯)
Made in Japan
Handcrafted: Slight variations in colour, decoration and form are part of the individual character of each piece.
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 the Tsuru (Crane) symbolise in Japan?

TheTsuru (鶴), or Japanese crane, is a traditional symbol oflongevity, good fortune and happiness. Because cranes are also associated with enduring bonds, they frequently appear in Japanese celebrations, wedding decorations and auspicious designs.