Iwachu Zakuro Cast Iron Teapot

Iwachu

A master maker of tetsubin - iron teapots - since 1902, Iwachu is one of the biggest names in cast iron cookware. Every piece created by their artisans offers a grounded aesthetic rooted in traditional craftsmanship and informed by generations of experience. By embracing their past, their workshop is able to produce beautiful, long-lasting ironware with a human touch.

Morioka, Japan

6.1" L x 4.35" W x 7.9" H

Cast iron

Rinse with warm water to clean. Dry thoroughly after use to prevent rust.

Our Teapots Are Crafted With Precision & Care

Elegant cast iron teapots are the result of centuries of Japanese crafting excellence and artistry. These authentic teapots are rich in culture and mindful creativity; they are designed to uplift your mood and add decadence with every steep.

What Makes The Iwachu Zakuro Cast Iron Teapot Unique?

Cherished for centuries, cast iron teapots have long been prized for their durability and aesthetic appeal. As the aromatic tea within continues to steep, the cast iron teapot infuses each drop with trace amounts of iron. This complementary fusion results in a slightly sweeter and more soothing taste that is great for bringing a mellow balance to bitter and earthy notes.

Perfected over generations of meticulous craftsmanship, The Iwachu Zakuro Cast Iron Teapot is a tribute to the finest works in Japanese ironwork. Handcrafted by veteran artisans known as Kamashis, it takes approximately 65 steps to complete one cast-iron teapot! 

Upon close inspection, the handcrafted individuality of each masterpiece is evident. Each hand-tempered feature is wrought in fire, and that laborious effort appears in every element. All Iwachu Zakuro Cast Iron Teapots are one-of-a-kind and feature slight design variations, further reflecting the uniqueness of each piece.

When you choose an authentic Iwachu Zakuro Cast Iron Teapot, you’ll receive: 

• A stunning geometric motif that flows with contemporary, eclectic, and traditional styles
• Pure cast iron materials that retain their integrity and beauty for a lifetime
• A precision spout design for a steady and measured pour
• Ergonomic handle shaping for ease of use
• A reusable infuser for teas of every grind

How To Best Use a Cast Iron Teapot 

Since the Iwachu Zakuro Cast Iron Teapot is crafted with an enamel lining, these kettles should not be used on a direct heat source. These kettles are designed for steeping after the water has been heated. 

First, fill the infuser with your tea of choice. For a lighter experience, a partial fill is ideal; for a stronger tea infusion, increase the portion as desired. When filling an infuser, you do not need to compress the herbal material; a gentle pack promotes even distribution of the tea infusion. 

For best results, use a thermometer to measure the water temperature before pouring. All teas have an ideal temperature range; lighter teas require lower heat (~160-185°F), and darker teas require higher heat (~185-212°F) to access the ideal flavor profile and beneficial compounds. 

Place the filled infuser within the teapot and slowly pour the heated water over the tea to prevent splashing and overfilling. Depending on the tea and your flavor/intensity preferences, steep times range from 2-8 minutes. To achieve the perfect steep, refer to the tea package or look up the specific timeline for your preferred blend.

Cleaning & Care 

Before first use, wash the teapot inside and out with warm water. Dry completely with a soft cloth. Unlike our Japanese cast iron cookware which should be seasoned before use, our cast iron teapots have an enamel coating and are not used for food, so there is no need to season the interior. If desired, you can polish the exterior with a soft cloth and use a light coating of natural oil on the exterior surfaces to preserve the pristine aesthetic. 

To maximize the lifespan of your cast iron teapot, it’s best to avoid using soap and other chemicals. Hot water and thorough rinsing is all that is required. After rinsing, drain all of the liquid, remove the lid, and allow the teapot to air dry completely. 

Other important teapot maintenance tips include: 

• Avoid exposing the interiors to salt, oils, and other compounds that could damage the enamel barrier.
• Never store the teapot with tea inside for prolonged periods; this can contribute to bacterial growth and corrosion.
• Store in a cool and dry place like a display cabinet to enrich your home’s aesthetic after the tea ceremony! 

Get Yours Today!

All teapots for sale at Rikumo are authentic Japanese works. To complete the ideal tea setting, we invite you to browse our complementary pairings such as our Japanese coffee cups and our flavorful organic teas, or visit our welcoming shop and sample our best teas in person!