Chikumeido Sabun
A quiet rhythm, woven in Takayama chasen.
In Takayama, Ikoma (Nara), the craft of Takayama chasen has been passed down for around 500 years. Chikumeido Sabun works at the heart of that tradition, making bamboo tea whisks (chasen) as well as tea utensils, nodate sets, and bamboo wares. The craft is designated as a traditional handicraft by the former Ministry of International Trade and Industry. Each piece is handmade under the head’s guidance. The online shop also offers tools that make matcha easier at home, such as “Mug Cup & Muddler de Ocha.” The store is open 10:00–16:00, with parking available.
Why We Love It
Try setting your chasen and chashaku on a small tray—just arranging them can make the table feel calmer. For everyday matcha, use a mug and keep it simple; the “Mug Cup & Muddler de Ocha” style is made for that idea. After whisking, drain the water and store the whisk so the delicate tips are not pressed. When guests visit, whisk a bowl quickly and let the conversation slow down a little—adding a seasonal sweet makes it even nicer.
PROFILE About the Company / Workshop
Chikumeido Sabun is based in Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara—known as the home of Takayama chasen. The craft has a history of around 500 years and is designated as a traditional handicraft by the former Ministry of International Trade and Industry. The 24th head, Sabun Kubo, leads both making and instruction. From chasen to tea utensils and bamboo wares, the workshop ships nationwide.
Making a chasen starts by splitting bamboo and forming the core. The tips are carefully split and shaped, then boiled and thinned—an essential step often linked to how matcha tastes in the bowl. Cotton thread weaving strengthens the base, and the final form is adjusted in the finishing stage. Many steps build the final balance and look.
A wide range of chasen is prepared for different uses, and some programs introduce around 100 types. The lineup also includes bamboo tea utensils such as chashaku, flower vases, and more, plus nodate sets and bamboo wares. For a casual cup at home, tools like “Mug Cup & Muddler de Ocha” and picnic-style sets make matcha approachable with familiar cups.
Alongside making, the workshop continues research into traditional chasen and supports apprentice training. The head is recognized as a nationally designated traditional craftsman, with a history of awards and exhibitions. Demonstrations and showcases have also taken place overseas, including in Paris and New York. The store is open 10:00–16:00, with parking available.
A 500-year craft in one whisk
Takayama chasen carries a history of around 500 years in Takayama, Ikoma. It is designated as a traditional handicraft by the former Ministry of International Trade and Industry. The refined bamboo tips and springy feel are part of what makes the craft so distinctive.
Split, thin, and weave
The process begins with splitting bamboo and shaping the core. The tips are carefully split, then boiled and thinned—especially toward the end—before the whisk is woven and finished. Step by step, the final silhouette is formed.
From chasen to nodate sets
Chikumeido Sabun makes chasen and other bamboo tea utensils such as chashaku (tea scoops) and more. Nodate sets and bamboo wares are also available. Tools like “Mug Cup & Muddler de Ocha” help bring matcha closer to everyday life.
Research, training, and a place to visit
The workshop continues research into historic chasen and supports apprentice training. Skilled artisans make everything by hand under the head’s guidance. The store is open 10:00–16:00, with parking on site.
PRODUCTS Featured Products & Services
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Takayama Chasen – 100-prong (Sabun Kubo)
A 100-prong Takayama chasen offered under the Chikumeido name. Listed as a handmade piece by Sabun Kubo. A solid choice when you want a classic whisk to start with.
Takayama Chasen – 80-prong (Sabun Kubo)
An 80-prong Takayama chasen listed under the Chikumeido name. Offered as a handmade piece by Sabun Kubo. A practical option for everyday matcha at home.
Takayama Chasen “Shin-kazuho” (White bamboo)
A Takayama chasen sold as “Shin-kazuho.” Listed as a white-bamboo whisk with size details shown by the seller. A good pick when you want to build a careful, basic tea tool set.
Mug Cup & “Muddler de Ocha” (Set)
A set built around the “Muddler de Ocha” idea—making matcha easier in a mug. It is a simple way to enjoy whisked matcha with the cups you already use. Nice for the home table, and easy to take along for a relaxed cup.