TAKAYAMA CHASEN - Black Bamboo | Matcha Whisk

Takayama Chasen  – “Shin” Style
(60-prong Black Bamboo Matcha Whisk)

Handcrafted in Takayama, Nara Prefecture, this whisk is made entirely by hand using traditional techniques that have been passed down for over 500 years. It features the “Shin” style, with about 60 finely carved prongs made from black bamboo.

Currently, there are only around 16 artisans in Japan who continue this craft. Each whisk reflects their meticulous skill and centuries of refinement, giving it both flexibility and resilience to create fine, creamy foam and a smooth, balanced bowl of matcha.

【 History of the Takayama Chasen 】

The craft of the Takayama chasen, the traditional bamboo whisk used in Japanese tea preparation, is said to have originated about 500 years ago during the Muromachi period in Takayama, Ikoma, Nara Prefecture.

It began when Murata Jukō, regarded as the founder of wabi-cha (the refined, simple style of tea ceremony), asked for a proper whisk to prepare matcha. Takayama Minbu-no-jō Nyūdō Sōsetsu designed the first whisk, which was later presented to Emperor Go-Tsuchimikado. The emperor was so pleased that he bestowed the name “Takasue” upon it.

Inspired by this honor, Sōzei devoted himself to further perfecting the craft, which was passed down within the Takayama family as a closely guarded secret. When members of the family were later reassigned to other regions, the secret techniques were entrusted to 16 retainers, and the tradition has been preserved ever since.

【 How to Care for Your Chasen 】

・After use, rinse gently with lukewarm water; do not use soap.
・Shake off water and air-dry in a ventilated place, away from sunlight and humidity.
・To help maintain the prongs’ shape, we recommend using a Matcha Whisk Stand when drying or storing.