Kaikado was established in 1875 (the eighth year of the Meiji period) as a pioneer of canisters made from tin. Ever since, they have been producing Chazutsu – Japanese tea caddies – made from copper, brass and tin, with robust craftsmanship. As well as the precision design, which lets inner air out while the lid is gently lowered, the double-walled construction guarantees excellent air tightness and will protect tea leaves or coffee from humidity whilst helping them to maintain their scent. The manufacturing process, involving more than 130 delicate steps and remaining true to the technique established by their founding generation, has maintained the products’ high standard.

‘Chazutsu is an everyday item used from morning to evening. I would like people to touch and use it everyday by hand, and enjoy the change of colour through ageing’ said Seiji Yagi, the fifth generation of Kaikado. Indeed, Chazutsu in their shop, whether used for one year, three years or thirty years, hold inenarrable depth, smoothness and a lovely matte shine.

The taste of the Chazutsu is developed through the item, which is realised by a renowned craftsmanship, and the appreciation of the users, who enjoy the item for a long time. A rich life, spending time with the item that gives us a feeling of warmth. This sense of value has been inherited in newer products and spread across Japan and the wider world such as caddies for pasta, caddies for teashops in London, or lineups collaboratively produced with a Danish design studio.