In Japan, the enjoyment and methods of consuming sake have evolved over centuries, leading to a wide variety of sake cups and glasses in modern times.
There's a long history between sake and its vessels. Until the medieval period, when alcohol content was lower, large wooden cups were commonly used. However, as the alcohol concentration increased in the early modern period, the size of the cups decreased, and the use of ceramic sake cups, such as Ochoko, became prevalent. There are various types of sake vessels, including Ochoko, Guinomi, Sakazuki, Masu, Tokkuri, Choshi, Kata-kuchi, and Chirori, with the choice often depending on the sake's temperature (cold, room temperature, or warm) and the material or quality of the vessel.
Millennium Gallery Japan showcases sake sets and cups crafted by artisans and manufacturers upholding centuries-old Japanese traditional techniques. The collection includes elegantly thin-lacquered cups decorated by skilled craftsmen, sake sets made from natural bamboo, and sake sets inspired by traditional Japanese roof tiles, representing the fusion of tradition and innovation in Japanese craftsmanship.
