Sakasazuki

Once upon a time, it is said that refined individuals, when indulging in moon-viewing sake, enjoyed gazing at the reflection of the moon in their sake cups rather than looking up at the moon in the night sky. Inspired by this concept of the "inverted moon reflected in the sake cup," a new sake cup has been created. The designs incorporate six different images of the moon (Yo-i, Jugo, Kasa, Ariake, Misoka, Sen) and are expressed using lacquer coating and maki-e techniques. Its unprecedented, innovative cylindrical shape leaves a strong impression. Made of wood, it is lightweight, easy to hold, and provides a gentle touch to the lips, which is another charm. Additionally, it is functional, as it does not easily transfer heat to the hand when hot sake is poured, making it easy to hold and slow to cool. It makes an excellent birthday gift for sake enthusiasts or a present for occasions such as Father's Day, Mother's Day, or Respect for the Aged Day. Inspired by the size of tea utensils preferred by Chinese people, it has been made slightly larger, making it a recommended souvenir or gift for foreign recipients as well. The designer, Kazushige Miyake, who has also worked on designs for MUJI, is behind this creation.