If you've started looking at matcha, you've probably come across words like chasen, chawan and chashaku. They're simply the Japanese names for the traditional tools used to prepare matcha. Here's what each one does, and which ones you really need.
Chasen – the bamboo whisk
The chasen is the most important tool in any matcha set. It's carved from a single piece of bamboo into dozens of fine prongs, which break up the powder and whip air into the tea to create matcha's signature creamy foam. A spoon or a metal whisk simply can't do the same job. Soak it in warm water before use and rinse it (without soap) afterwards.
Chawan – the matcha bowl
A chawan is a wide, deep bowl with enough room to whisk without splashing. Shape matters more than you'd think: a mug is too narrow for the zig-zag whisking motion. Chawan come in all sorts of glazes, from simple matte black to reactive kiln glazes where no two bowls look quite the same.
Chashaku – the bamboo scoop
The chashaku is a slim, curved bamboo scoop used to measure matcha. One to two scoops is about right for a single bowl. You can use a teaspoon instead, but the chashaku is part of the ritual.
Kusenaoshi – the whisk holder
A ceramic whisk holder (sometimes called a whisk stand or kusenaoshi) is what you rest the whisk on to dry. It helps the delicate prongs keep their shape, so your whisk lasts far longer. It's easy to overlook, but well worth having.
The sieve
Matcha is very fine and clumps easily. Sifting it through a fine-mesh sieve before adding water is the secret to a smooth, lump-free bowl.
Do you need a full matcha set?
To make matcha properly, the bamboo whisk and a suitable bowl are the essentials. The scoop, holder and sieve make it easier, more consistent and help your tools last. Buying them as a set is usually cheaper and simpler than piecing them together, and it makes a lovely gift.
What's in our matcha set
Our Matcha Ceremony Gift Set includes six pieces: a ceramic chawan (approx. 11.3cm wide), a bamboo chasen, a ceramic whisk holder, a fine-mesh sieve, a bamboo chashaku and a bamboo spoon, all packed in a kraft gift box. Choose from five bowl glazes, with free UK delivery.
New to matcha? Read our step-by-step guide to making matcha at home.
