Starbucks Japan continues to celebrate local craftsmanship through its “Jimoto Made” series, which began in 2015. The initiative, aimed at highlighting regional artisans, has recently added a standout product to its collection: a Bizen ware coffee mug.
Bizen ware, Japan’s oldest pottery tradition, dates back nearly 2,000 years. It is one of Japan’s renowned “Six Ancient Kilns,” which also includes Echizen, Seto, Tokoname, Shigaraki, and Tamba. Originating from Okayama Prefecture, Bizen pottery is distinguished by its rustic, unglazed appearance. The simplicity of its design, deeply rooted in the philosophy of wabi-sabi, captured the admiration of the famed tea master Sen no Rikyu (1522–1591).
Bizen ware is not only revered in tea culture but is also highly regarded among coffee enthusiasts. The fine pores in its uneven surface enhance the flavor of coffee, creating a more mellow and well-rounded taste.
To bring this experience to more coffee drinkers, Starbucks has introduced the Jimoto Made Sangiri Bizen Ware Mug. This exclusive piece was developed in collaboration with Shibaoka Tosendo, a renowned pottery producer in Bizen established in 1912. The mug features the traditional Sangiri firing technique, which results in stunning shades of dark grey, blue, and gunmetal hues.
Crafting the Bizen ware mug is an intricate process. It begins with locally sourced soil that undergoes extensive drying and storage for over six months. The clay is then carefully shaped by hand and fired in a kiln for five and a half days at extremely high temperatures. The wood ash from the firing process creates unique, one-of-a-kind patterns on each piece.
The result is a beautiful, earthy mug that encapsulates the natural beauty of the soil. Its textured surface, lightweight feel, and satisfying resonance when placed on a table offer a sensory experience for coffee drinkers.
Priced at ¥7,200 (approximately US$51), the Jimoto Made Sangiri Bizen Ware Mug aligns with traditional Bizen pottery costs, which can reach much higher prices. This handcrafted mug is not just a purchase—it’s an investment in both art and coffee enjoyment.
Available from September 17, the mug can be found at several Starbucks locations across Okayama Prefecture, including outlets at Okayama University Hospital, Aeon Mall Okayama, and Sun Station Terrace Okayama.
