Kukan Chuzo

Based in Mizusawa, Iwate, Kukan Chuzo blends tradition and modernity to craft elegant cast ironware. 

Led by artist Hisao Iwashimizu, their kettles and teapots highlight the natural texture of iron and organic forms that suit any space. Over time, the kettles enhance water flavor, embodying the beauty of use and simplicity.

4 products

Forging Beauty: The Everyday Elegance of Kuukan Chuzo
Born in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture in 1964.After working as a designer from 1989, [he] transitioned to the world of metal casting in 1992. In 2009, [he] became independent and established "Kuukan Chuzo" (Spatial Casting).Kukan Chuzo, a brand by Hisao Iwashimizu, proposes ironware that pursues Japanese Aesthetic Sense “Yo-no-bi, Beauty of Everyday Things”of modern life. His workshop is located in the Mizusawa area of Iwate Prefecture, which is the production area for Nambu ironware.
He creates cast iron products such as iron kettles and iron teapots, which are a fusion of tradition and modernity, while valuing the original cast iron texture and color. The organic design is inspired by nature and has a dignified feel. It easily blends into any space, such as a traditional Japanese home or a room in an urban apartment. The more frequent times you use, the more delicious hot water with a mellow texture that conttains iron comes up.
Award history
1998
Received DESIGN PLUS AWARDS (Germany Internationale Frankfurter Messe ʼ98Ambiente)

2003
Invited for Asahi Contemporary Craft Exhibition
Received the Excellence Award at the Japan Craft Exhibition

2004
Received Grand Prix Winner of Takaoka Craft Competition
About Nanbu Tekki
"Nanbu Tekki" (南部鉄器) is a collective term for ironware produced in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture and Mizusawa Ward, Oshu City.
Morioka, formerly part of the Nanbu domain, and Mizusawa, formerly part of the Date domain, each have distinct histories of metal casting.
In both production areas, various ironware was manufactured, ranging from tea kettles (tetsubin), pots, and cauldrons to temple bells, Buddhist statues, lanterns, and even cannons, by metal casters (imoji) and tea kettle artisans called from all over Japan.