Chasen - Handmade Matcha Whisk

Limited production Takayama Chasen handmade by artisans in Japan  

Handcrafted Excellence – A Masterpiece of Traditional Artistry Passed Down from Father to Son

A genuine Takayama chasen, crafted entirely from domestically grown Japanese bamboo. Each of the eight production stages is performed meticulously by hand, ensuring exceptional quality and authenticity. At Phenimax, our Takayama chasen is made with particular care by master artisan Okuda, who brings his expertise and passion to the most delicate and crucial stage of the process: ajikezuri, the precise shaping of the whisk’s fine tips.

Master Okuda's chasen features slightly more pronounced curvature at the tips compared to standard designs. This subtle adjustment is a thoughtful refinement intended to preserve the ideal balance of flexibility and shape during the initial preparation process—yudōshi, where the whisk is gently softened in warm water. This carefully considered detail makes whisking matcha smoother and also helps prolong the life of the chasen.

Each handmade chasen is unique, with subtle variations that reflect the artisan’s touch. As you use it over time, it naturally conforms to your hand, becoming more comfortable and personal with every use.

Even among Takayama chasen, the ease of whisking and the resulting flavor of matcha can vary depending on the artisan. Crafted from 100% rare Japanese bamboo, each Phenimax chasen offers unparalleled beauty and craftsmanship. Appreciate its elegance with your eyes—and experience the remarkable difference in your hands.

Product Details

Usage

Ideal for preparing both usucha (thin matcha) and koicha (thick matcha).

Care & Handling

Handcrafted chasen are delicate tea tools, with especially fragile tips. Please avoid pressing the tip of the whisk against the bottom of the tea bowl when whisking, as this may cause damage to the fine bristles.

Care Instructions

・Before Use
Soak the bristles in water or warm water for a few minutes. This softens the tips and allows them to gently unfurl. A well-fanned whisk not only makes it easier to prepare matcha but also helps prevent damage during use.

・After Use
Rinse the bristles by swishing them gently in water or warm water, just as you did before use. If residue remains after rinsing, carefully remove it by gently massaging the bristles with your fingers. Avoid scrubbing or applying excessive force—always clean the whisk with a delicate touch.

・Storage

After cleaning, shake off any excess water and allow the whisk to air dry completely. For optimal drying and storage, use a chasen-oki (whisk holder), which helps maintain the bristle shape and prevent moisture buildup. If you don’t have a whisk holder, dry the chasen with the bristle end facing downward to avoid water accumulating in the handle.

Placing the whisk into its case before it has fully dried may cause mold to develop. Please ensure it is completely dry before storing.