Arita ·
Aroma ·
Guinomi ·
Katakuchi ·
Mouthfeel ·
Ochoko ·
Porcelain ·
Sakeware ·
Shigaraki ·
Size Guide ·
Stoneware ·
Styling ·
Tokkuri ·
Japanese Sakeware Guide: Tokkuri, Ochoko, Guinomi & Katakuchi
Sake tastes different through the vessel. Rim (drinking mouth) thickness, rim diameter, capacity, and material—porcelain vs stoneware—quietly reshape aroma, temperature, and comfort. This inch-first guide (ml in parentheses) explains how to choose tokkuri, ochoko, guinomi, and katakuchi, with styling ideas for Western tables.

Sakeware basics
- Tokkuri (carafe): narrow neck for controlled pour and aroma retention.
- Ochoko (small cup): compact, aroma-forward with thinner rims.
- Guinomi (larger cup): slightly bigger, often thicker rims for a cozier landing.
- Katakuchi (spouted bowl): ideal for sharing; doubles as a small sauce vessel.
Aroma & mouthfeel
- Rim (drinking mouth) thickness: thinner = aroma lifts and flow quickens; thicker = gentler landings and a slower pace.
- Rim diameter: wider opens the nose; narrower concentrates flavor.
- Capacity (per pour): 1.0–1.5 oz (30–45 ml) for tasting; 1.5–2.5 oz (45–75 ml) for meals; 2.5–3.5 oz (75–100 ml) for lingering.

Temperature & materials
- Arita (porcelain): thin, smooth rim; bright, clean aroma—great for chilled to room temperature.
- Shigaraki (stoneware): tactile grain and a little thickness; calming warmth—lovely for gently warmed sake.
Scene-based picks

- Aperitif (chilled): thin-rim ochoko, slightly wider mouth for aroma.
- Main course (room temp): katakuchi for easy sharing and steady nose.
- After course (gently warm): guinomi with a gentle rim for comfort.
Western table styling
- Plates: use white porcelain plates for negative space, or place a katakuchi near the edge of a Rectangular or Oval plate for movement.
- Palette: pair Shigaraki with the Black-Dark collection; pair Arita with the White collection.
- Light: warm, low glare lighting enhances porcelain sheen and stoneware shadows.

Care & longevity
- Hand wash preferred: protects thin rims and glaze character.
- Avoid thermal shock: no sudden hot–cold swings, especially with matte or crazed glazes.
- Stack with care: place a cloth/felt between rims.
Editor’s Picks
Choose by rim feel and scene, then let glaze and light set the mood.
Browse all Sake VesselsFAQ
Is thin rim always better for sake?
Not always. Thin rims lift aroma; gentle thicker rims slow the sip and feel cozier—choose by style and temperature.
How much should I pour per cup?
1.0–1.5 oz (30–45 ml) for tasting, 1.5–2.5 oz (45–75 ml) with meals.
Porcelain or stoneware?
Porcelain for clarity and lift (chilled to room temp). Stoneware for warmth and calm (gently warm).