Tea: A Tool for Savoring Time [Part 2]

The JINSUI kyusu (teapot), with its ease of use and seamless fit with modern lifestyles, is perfect not only for green tea but also for black tea and herbal infusions. Its simple, modern form is a sophisticated departure from the conventional image of the kyusu. Despite being made of ceramic, it is remarkably lightweight, and the thoughtfully balanced handle ensures graceful movements.

"JINSUI" kyusu are characterized by colors and textures tailored to contemporary lifestyles, attracting attention even from those who have never used a kyusu before. The handles have been lengthened to accommodate the larger hands of men and foreigners, not only enhancing ease of use but also proposing a new form. Through meticulous attention to detail and the solid craftsmanship that supports it, "JINSUI" transforms the act of "drinking tea" from a routine activity into a luxurious experience. What inspired this design? We spoke with Yusuke Watanabe, President and Designer of JINSUI Co., Ltd.

"I originally had a passion for fashion and attended a fashion design school. During my student days, I worked part-time selling shime-nawa (sacred Shinto ropes) at a flower shop, which sparked my interest in plants, leading me to enroll in a flower arrangement school. After graduating, I worked as a floral artist specializing in event decorations, but I also helped with the family business in my spare time. At the time, I wasn't particularly interested in kyusu making, but marriage prompted me to commit to taking over the business, and I retrained. As I delved deeper, I recognized the high level of skill and quality, but I felt that the designs lacked a reflection of contemporary lifestyles. While other makers had collaborated with external designers, I felt that the essential functions were being neglected. I couldn't find a single brand where design truly served as a function. So, I started 'JINSUI' as a small part of our overall production, about 10%, and the response was positive, leading us to develop it into a full-fledged brand."

A product born from a unique floral artist's perspective.

The handling of molds changes with the seasons and climate.

Traditional techniques that evolve subtly while appearing unchanged.

Currently, JINSUI offers three series, each featuring a matte texture and a color scheme that evokes a sense of the times, such as a gentle, terracotta-like beige, a cool, mortar-like gray, and an understated, modern black.

"TOKI" is a collection of tools for "enjoying time." Pursuing beautiful forms and usability, these products invite you to savor tea, forget time, and embrace moments of playful delight. In the world of artisans, the time spent enjoying tea is called toki-wasure (time forgotten), and it is said that workers in high places, such as steeplejacks, would take a slow break before starting work to avoid rushing and causing accidents, a practice considered to bring good luck.

"IROIRO" began as a series of canisters that incorporate kyusu techniques. The airtight seal created by the futa-suri technique has been applied to containers, making them ideal not only for coffee beans and tea leaves but also for any food that needs to be kept dry. The kyusu in this series are large yet lightweight, and their unpretentious usability fits perfectly with modern lifestyles.

The "arecore" teapot and cups are designed to complement Western tableware. Their gentle off-white color is versatile, pairing well not only with green tea but also with hojicha (roasted green tea) and black tea. Enjoy a delightful breakfast by adding fresh milk to the lidless coffee mesh and teapot for a customized café au lait.

A distinctive silhouette that merges sharp forms with gentle impressions.

A canister that boasts superior airtightness despite its simple form. The art of kyusu holds profound depths of craftsmanship.

The lidless coffee mesh complements a breakfast of toast and sunny-side up eggs.

Upon closer examination of JINSUI's functions, three key elements seem to converge. The first is traditional technique. The confidence in this fundamental skill underpins their willingness to embrace new challenges. The second is usability that satisfies even the discerning eye of a professional. This is achieved through the balance when held and the meticulous structural design, making the act of brewing tea smooth and aesthetically pleasing. Finally, there's the design. While seamlessly blending into modern spaces, it retains a rustic warmth that avoids being overly design-conscious.

"For instance, I'm a fan of Tadao Ando's architecture, and I often peruse his photo books. I'm drawn to his world of light and shadow, where he pursues form and texture rather than ornamentation. Would a kyusu be permitted to exist in such a space? This perspective is uniquely informed by my background in fashion and plants. I believe I was able to pursue pure, beautiful design while staying true to that vision. When I see a 'Qusamura: 叢' cactus, I feel a sense of novelty, and when I see a 'TRADMAN'S' BONSAI, I think, 'I want that in my home!' There are moments when something that previously seemed antiquated is suddenly revived through someone's interpretation. With JINSUI, I want to cherish what we've inherited from our ancestors while striving to pass it on to future generations."

A beauty both contemporary and somehow primordial.

The unglazed surface conceals nothing, not even its scars. This tension creates an air of dignified beauty.

One cannot help but be captivated by the artisan's movements, both precise and gentle.

JINSUI is also developing new products that go beyond the kyusu category, such as lampshades and flower vases. However, upon hearing their development stories, one is struck by how deeply rooted they are in kyusu techniques. The traces of numerous prototypes and failures are clearly evident. This reminds us that even the now-commonplace kyusu was once the result of someone's trial and error. The kyusu was born because someone wanted to enjoy "the time spent drinking tea." At the heart of Mr. Watanabe's new product development lies a strong desire to "convey the fascination of a culture that is in danger of being forgotten." He does so not by pandering but with a lightheartedness, a refinement, a way of conveying the richness enjoyed by people of old. Perhaps it is this innocent spirit that gives JINSUI products their unique elegance. As we talk, Mr. Watanabe suddenly exclaims, "Ah, I just had an idea!" with an unadulterated smile. And so, a new tradition begins. It felt as though we had glimpsed such a moment.

Each artisan masters three different roles, creating a workplace that ensures comfortable time off.

Traditional techniques meet new ideas, creating moments of wonder.

"Interesting things are found in everyday life," he says with ever-present joy.