In the Japanese tea ceremony, or Chadō (茶道), even the smallest objects carry deep meaning. The Natsume (棗), a lacquered tea caddy used to hold matcha, is one such vessel—simple in form yet rich in tradition. More than just storage, it embodies the spirit of Chadō, transforming tea into an act of mindfulness and grace.
What is a Natsume?
The Natsume is a tea caddy traditionally crafted from wood and finished with layers of urushi (lacquer). Its smooth, glossy surface protects matcha from moisture while adding quiet elegance to the tea ceremony. Its name comes from the jujube fruit (natsume in Japanese), whose rounded shape the vessel resembles.
How the Natsume is Made
Creating a Natsume is a careful, multi-step process that blends function with artistry:
- Wood shaping – The body is hand-carved from lightweight wood, forming its rounded silhouette.
- Lacquering – Several coats of urushi lacquer are applied, each layer polished for strength and luster. Some pieces include decorative details, such as seasonal motifs, giving them a distinctive character.
- Final polishing – The surface is refined to a smooth, durable finish, making the Natsume both practical for storing matcha and visually expressive.
Because each piece is handmade, no two are exactly alike. Subtle variations reflect the individuality of the artisan and the tradition behind the craft.
The Role of the Natsume in Chadō
In the tea ceremony, the Nastume is handled with reverence. The host presents the Natsume with both hands, and uses the Fukusa (silk cloth) to gently wipe the top and sides of the Natsume to purify it, before rotating it slightly to show respect for the object. Once the other tools have been purified, the host opens the Natsume lid to gently scoop matcha into the chawan (tea bowl) with mindfulness and intention.
The Natsume represents key values of Chadō:
- Purity – Keeping the tea fresh and pristine
- Respect – Handling each utensil with care and attention.
- Harmony – Each element of the tea ceremony, from the Natsume to the matcha, the Fukusa, and the Chashaku (tea scoop) are in perfect harmony with one another to create a meditative performance.
Using a Natsume at Home
You don’t need a formal tea room to enjoy the spirit of Chadō. A Natsume can be incorporated into a modern tea ritual at home:
- Sieve a few sittings worth of matcha using a chafurui (sieve).
- Gently transfer the sieved matcha into the Natsume for storage.
- During each tea ritual, scoop matcha directly from the Natsume into your chawan—no need to sieve again.
By bringing this piece into everyday life, you create small moments of calm and elegance, honoring the tradition while making it your own.
Caring for Your Natsume
With proper care, a Natsume can last for decades, becoming a cherished heirloom. Keep in mind:
- Avoid water – Do not wash with water; instead, wipe the interior with a dry or lightly damp cloth.
- Store properly – Place in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
- Handle with care – The lacquer surface can scratch or chip, so treat it as you would any precious object.
A Natsume is more than just a container. It is a vessel of tradition, symbolism, and beauty—an invitation to slow down, practice mindfulness, and honor the quiet grace of matcha.
At Ode Ritual, we honor this tradition with two distinct Natsume: a silver-lid design crafted by a 180-year-old lacquerware maker in Kyoto, and a classic black lacquer piece with an inner lid from a specialist in Fukui. Both are available in our Tea Tools collection—whether chosen individually or as part of our complete tea ritual sets.
