Shino Ware | Sake Cup | Guinomi | Japanese Pottery | Handmade Ceramics | Wabi Sabi Art | Tea Ceremony | Artisan Stoneware | Unique Glaze Cup

The Story Behind This Piece:　

In a mountain town in northern Hiroshima Prefecture, near the border with Shimane, lies a region where "Tatara" ironmasters and wealthy farmers once cultivated a unique and sophisticated culture. Even today, traditional folk houses (kominka) with thick earthen-walled storehouses (kura) dot the landscape. This Shino-yaki Guinomi (sake cup) emerged from the depths of one such "Kita-kura" (North Storehouse) of a 150-year-old estate, found at the bottom of a layered bamboo trunk after nearly half a century. This region is a harsh environment, often buried under deep snow during the winter. The former head of the house was a respected local figure and a "sukisha" (connoisseur of refined arts) who deeply loved traditional Japanese beauty. The 1970s was an era when Japan, having achieved material wealth through rapid economic growth, saw people turn their eyes back toward "Mingei" (folk art) and "handicrafts" in search of spiritual richness. It is said that he visited the distant Mino region during this time to acquire this Shino-yaki piece, crafted with the soul of a master potter of that era, and used it to enjoy local sake by the fire of the "irori" (sunken hearth) on snowy nights.

Shino-yaki is a brand that occupies an extraordinarily unique and noble position in the history of Japanese ceramics. It was born in the Mino region (modern-day Gifu Prefecture) during the Azuchi-Momoyama period, an era when legendary tea masters like Sen no Rikyu and Furuta Oribe revolutionized Japanese aesthetics. While early Japanese ceramics were largely imitations of Chinese wares, Shino-yaki was the first indigenous ware to use a white feldspar glaze, representing a purely Japanese creative identity. Since the revival of these techniques by Living National Treasure Toyozo Arakawa in the 1930s, many potters from the post-war reconstruction period through the 1970s devoted their passions to recreating this "Momoyama beauty." The defining characteristic of Shino-yaki is the use of "Mogusa-tsuchi" (mugwort clay), a white clay known for its heat resistance and soft, pliable texture. The contrast between the warm white of the glaze and the "Hiiro" (scarlet flashes) produced by iron oxidation has long been considered the pinnacle of "wabi-sabi"—the Japanese aesthetic of finding beauty in imperfection and transience.

The most striking feature of this particular guinomi is the single branch of plum blossoms (ume) painted using the traditional "E-shino" (decorated Shino) technique. This motif carries profound significance. The plum pattern, emerging from beneath the thick, snow-like feldspar glaze, embodies the spirit of the "Saikan no Sanyu" (Three Friends of Winter)—symbolizing the resilience to endure the harsh winters of northern Hiroshima and bloom before any other flower. The plum blossom is a symbol of a noble person who maintains their integrity and fragrance even in adversity. The original owner, living through the turbulent 1970s, likely saw the falling snow outside his window reflected in the white glaze of the cup, finding in the painted plum a hopeful sign of a new era.

Shino-yaki is characterized by "pinholes" (small atmospheric bubbles) on its surface and intricate "kannyu" (crackle patterns). These are not flaws but evidence that the vessel is "breathing." Over years of use, the sake permeates these cracks, changing the "landscape" of the cup and offering the owner the joy of "growing" the vessel. Looking at the "kodai" (foot), one can see the powerful marks of the spatula and the exposed, unglazed clay that has turned a scorched red from the baptism of the kiln's fire. The contrast between the rugged strength of this "koge" (scorch) and the delicate, poetic depiction of the plum blossoms is what defines the high artistic value of this work. Pieces from the 1970s are characterized by a high balance of practicality and artistry, serving as replicas of the Momoyama period while coexisting with modern formal sensibilities.

How did such a masterpiece come to sleep in a storehouse for so long? As lifestyles rapidly westernized from the end of the Showa era into the Heisei era, the luxury of enjoying traditional Japanese spaces was temporarily lost. However, the master of the house believed, "This is the heart of Japan that must be connected to the next generation," and kept it carefully in a paulownia wood box within the temperature-controlled environment of the kura. The decision to bring this piece out now stems from a transition in family generations and the dismantling of the aging estate. With the family’s wish to "entrust this piece to someone who truly understands its value for the next fifty or hundred years," this guinomi has returned to the light.

In terms of "Mingei" (folk art) value, this vessel is exceptional. It embodies the "beauty of utility" (yo-no-bi) advocated by Yanagi Soetsu; its beauty is only completed when it is held, when sake is poured into it, and when the warmth of the clay touches the lips. This is a story of the historical weight of the Shino-yaki brand, the craftsmanship infused by a 1970s artisan, and a personal narrative nurtured in the snowy lands of Hiroshima. To own this guinomi is not merely to possess an antique; it is to engage in a silent, timeless dialogue with the very essence of Japanese beauty.

Condition & Notes:
Please note before purchasing!
This is a vintage item, sold as-is.
Due to age and long-term storage, you may notice natural signs of wear such as: – Small scratches or scuffs
– Minor fading or discoloration
– Subtle glaze variations or imperfections
These features are part of the individuality and charm that vintage Japanese items carry.
We hope you will appreciate these unique textures and the quiet beauty they hold. They are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.
We have done our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.
Please note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and your screen settings.
Only the items shown in the photos are included.
Thank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.

Dimensions:

Height: 4.7 cm (1.85 in)
Base Diameter: 3.9 cm (1.54 in)
Rim Diameter: 6.1 × 6.1 cm (2.40 × 2.40 in)
Maximum Circumference: 21.0 cm (8.27 in)
Weight: 105 g (3.70 oz)

Shipping Information:
All items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.
For orders to the United States, we use DHL Express or UPS, both with full tracking and insurance.
For all other destinations, shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS, depending on the country and shipping conditions.
Each item is carefully packed with protective materials to ensure it arrives safely.
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
Estimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days, depending on the destination and customs procedures.

Damage During Shipping – Important Notice
In the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged,
please contact us within 10 days of delivery.
To help us accurately understand the condition of the damage,
we kindly ask you to provide the following photos:
・Clear photos showing the condition of the damaged item
・Photos clearly showing the condition of the outer packaging (shipping box)
・Photos showing the inside of the box, including the packing condition
(such as the presence and placement of cushioning materials)
・Photos of all items included in the shipment
・A clear photo of the shipping label on the box
Please note that all items and packaging materials must be kept and stored
until permission is given by the shipping carrier to dispose of them.
This includes:
・The damaged item
・The outer shipping box
・All cushioning and packing materials
・Any other items included in the same shipment
Disposal of any of these items before carrier approval
may affect our ability to investigate the damage properly.
Please understand that minor imperfections consistent with the nature of vintage items
are not considered shipping damage.

International buyers: Please note!!!
To ensure a smooth and pleasant transaction, please read the following notes carefully before purchasing.

1.Global Policy
Customs, Import Fees, and International Shipping:
Import duties, customs clearance fees, and local or state taxes (such as Sales Tax) are not
included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are calculated according to the regulations of each country’s customs authority and are the responsibility of the buyer.
Carriers such as DHL, UPS, or Japan Post EMS may collect these fees directly upon delivery. In accordance with international law, we do not under-declare item values or mark shipments as gifts.
Please ensure that your shipping address is accurate and complete.
If a package is returned due to an incorrect address, incomplete information, unpaid import fees, or delivery refusal,
all costs related to the return and reshipment will be the responsibility of the buyer.
International deliveries may experience delays due to customs inspections or local postal conditions.
We do not offer domestic shipping within Japan.
Orders placed with a Japanese domestic address will be canceled and refunded.
If you wish to send an item as a gift to someone in Japan, please contact us before placing your order.
Returns & Refunds (No-Refund Policy):
All items are vintage or antique and are sold as is.

We do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds for any reason.
(Examples: change of mind, customs delays, slight differences in color or condition.) However, if a loss or severe damage during shipping is officially confirmed by the carrier’s insurance, we will respond within the scope of that insurance.
Please purchase only after understanding and agreeing to these terms.
Note: The 14-day right of withdrawal for France and the UK, based on consumer protection laws, takes precedence over this policy.
Return & Reshipping Costs:
If a package is returned due to an incorrect or incomplete address, refusal, or unpaid import fees,all return and reshipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility.
Reshipment will be arranged after the additional payment is confirmed.
Even if you cancel after a return, shipping and handling fees are non-refundable.
Please ensure your address and contact information are accurate and that you are available to receive the package.
Safety & Usage:
These items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.
They are not toys. Keep out of reach of children.
They are not suitable for food use.
Due to the natural aging of materials and finishes, do not use them for direct contact with food (e.g., plates or cutlery).
Please enjoy them as decorative pieces that bring quiet beauty to your space.
Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture or heat, and handle with care.
Liability Disclaimer:
We cannot be held responsible for any accidents, damage, or injury resulting from the use or handling of vintage or antique items.
All products are sold as decorative collectibles, and customers are responsible for proper and safe use and storage.
By completing your purchase, you are deemed to have agreed to these terms.

2. Country-Specific Information
・For Customers in the United States
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
Shipments are made via DHL Express or UPS (with tracking and insurance).
Import Duties & State Taxes:
Import duties, customs clearance fees, and state taxes (Sales Tax) are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are calculated under each state’s regulations and are the buyer’s responsibility.
In some cases, DHL or UPS may collect import duties and customs fees upon delivery. We cannot mark items as gifts or under-declare their value for customs purposes.
California Proposition 65 Notice:
Some vintage or antique items may contain trace amounts of natural lacquer, metals, or pigments that fall under California Proposition 65.
These are historical materials, and the risk under normal use is considered extremely low. This notice is provided for your information; we cannot be responsible for any effects arising from normal use.

・For Customers in Hong Kong
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed. Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Duties & Taxes:
As Hong Kong is a free port, no customs duties or sales tax (VAT/GST) will be charged.

・For Customers in Taiwan
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed. Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Duties & EZ WAY App:
For orders over NT$2,000, import duties and a 5% business tax will apply.
These charges are determined by Taiwan Customs and are the buyer’s responsibility. For customs clearance, registration with the EZ WAY app is required.
Your registered name and phone number must match the shipping information.

・For Customers in Singapore
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed. Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Duties & Taxes:
For orders over S$400, 9% GST and a small handling fee may apply.
These charges are determined by Singapore Customs and are the buyer’s responsibility.

・For Customers in Switzerland
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment confirmation.
Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
VAT & Duties: Upon import, Swiss Customs may charge VAT and handling or customs fees.
These costs are the responsibility of the buyer and are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
If the item value is CHF 150 or less and the purpose is personal use or gifting,
it may qualify for exemption, depending on customs’ decision.

・For Customers in the United Kingdom
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment confirmation.
Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Our shop is not registered for UK VAT,
so VAT is not included in the item price or shipping cost.
Upon arrival in the UK, HMRC may charge import VAT and handling fees.
These costs are the responsibility of the buyer and are typically collected by DHL, UPS, or another courier.
Right of Withdrawal (Cooling-Off Period):
Under the UK Consumer Contracts Regulations, you have the right to cancel or return your order
within 14 days from the date you receive the item.
If you wish to return an item, please contact us by email within 14 days.
Return shipping is the buyer’s responsibility.
After we receive and inspect the item, we will refund the item price (excluding shipping, duties, and fees).
Items that are used, damaged, or returned in a different condition are not eligible for return.

・For Customers in France
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment confirmation.
Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
As the shop is not registered for EU or French VAT,
VAT (TVA) is not included in the item price or shipping cost.
When your order arrives in France, import VAT (TVA), customs duties, and handling fees may be charged by French Customs or the courier (DHL, UPS, etc.).
These costs are the responsibility of the buyer.
The total amount varies depending on item value, weight, and destination.
Right of Withdrawal (Droit de rétractation):
Under the EU Consumer Rights Directive, you have the right to cancel or return your order
within 14 days from the date of receipt.
Please contact us by email within 14 days to request a return.
Return shipping is the buyer’s responsibility.
After inspection, we will refund the item price (excluding shipping, duties, and return postage).
Items that are used, damaged, or returned in a different condition are not eligible for return.

Contact Us:
If you have any questions about our products, descriptions, specifications, or usage, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.
We’re happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.
Thank you for considering a piece from our kura — each one carries a quiet story we hope you’ll enjoy.