Made in Japan

KIYOMIZU WARE SAKE CUP by Kōhō Kiln | FUCHI HANAKOMON 渕花小紋 | NISHIKAWA

£297.00

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A richly detailed Kyo Ware piece that brings together cherry blossoms, traditional komon patterns and fine gold decoration in a more restrained and balanced expression of Kōhō Kiln craftsmanship.

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KIYOMIZU WARE SAKE CUP by Kōhō Kiln | FUCHI HANAKOMON 渕花小紋 | NISHIKAWA

£297.00

Taxes included.Shipping calculated at checkout.

Quantity

SET

Single Pair - 2 cups

📦 Delivered from the UK

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

🎁 Gift wrapping available

🇯🇵 All products made in Japan

A refined composition of cherry blossoms, traditional Japanese patterns and gold detailing, arranged with a quieter sense of balance.

Description

Handcrafted by Kōhō Kiln (光抱窯), Fuchi Hanakomon presents a more restrained interpretation of the richly decorated tradition of Kyoto ceramics.

The name “Hanakomon” (花小紋) refers to the use of small, repeated decorative motifs, while “Fuchi” (渕) draws attention to the border of the vessel. Here, a band of red and white cherry blossoms circles the upper section of the cup, creating a softer transition into the intricate geometric patterns below.

The lower body is divided into alternating panels of traditional Japanese motifs. Fine geometric forms — including interlocking hexagonal and hemp-leaf-inspired patterns — are carefully framed with gold, while a dark geometric border around the foot gives the composition a strong visual foundation.

Unlike the exceptionally dense ornamentation of our Kinsai Nejirikomon, this piece leaves more breathing room between its decorative elements. The result is still unmistakably elaborate, but more ordered and approachable.

Look closely and the craftsmanship reveals itself in the fine gold lines, individually rendered blossoms and subtle variations across the painted patterns — details that give the cup the unmistakable character of a hand-finished piece.

Summary

Rich in traditional Japanese pattern work yet more restrained than Kōhō Kiln’s most elaborate Kinsai pieces, Fuchi Hanakomon balances fine gold detailing, cherry blossoms and classical komon motifs in an elegant, highly usable form.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Brand: Nishikawa
Origin: Kyoto, Japan
Ware: Kyo Ware / Kiyomizu Ware (京焼・清水焼)
Kiln: Kōhō Kiln (光抱窯)
Design: Fuchi Hanakomon (渕花小紋)
Decoration: Traditional floral and geometric motifs with extensive gold detailing
Motifs: Cherry blossom and Japanese komon patterns
Finish: Gloss glazed surface with hand-finished decorative work
Use: Sake cup / small drinking vessel
Made in Japan
Handcrafted: Small variations in pattern, line and colour are natural characteristics of individual pieces
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.