Choshi Geo mug
Choshi geo mug

Choshi Geo-mug from Kenji Toen kiln

The city of Choshi in Chiba prefecture, Japan has an abundance of interesting geological features. The oldest strata date as far back as the Jurassic period (150 million years ago) and the Cretaceous period (120 million years ago). Even the newest strata, which created Byobugaura Ciffs pictured above, are from the Neogene period (23 million years ago).

These Geo-mugs and Geo-guinomi sake cups were created to help to promote the activities of the Choshi Citizens Geopark Promotion Committee, set up in order to gain recognition for these geographical features with the aim of preserving Choshi's precious natutal heritage. On September 24th, 2012, the city succeeded in achieving recognition as an area of important geological features from the Japanese Geoparks Network and "Choshi Geopark" officially came into being.

Each item has been especially created for us by Tokoname craftsman, Mr. Takumi Hotta, who learned his “nerikomi” technique from his father Kenji, a reputed craftsman. Nerikomi is a process by which different colored clays are blended together to create the marbled effect seen on these items. The marbling creates layers of color which reflect the strata of the Byobugaura Cliffs in Choshi.

The pieces are all individually handcrafted on the potter’s wheel, ensuring that no piece is exactly alike and each item seems to take on a familiar character the more it is used.

Choshi Geopark official website (in Japanese): http://www.choshi-geopark.jp/
Handcrafted at Kenji Toen kiln in Tokoname, Japan by Hotta Takumi
Style 1 - cylindrical shape
Approx. size width(incl. handle) : 12.5 cm / 4.9", Height: 8.8 - 9.5 cm / 3.4" - 3.7",
Approx. full vol. 400-440 ml / 13.5 oz - 14.8 oz

Style 2 - barrel shape
Approx. size width(incl. handle) : 12.5 cm / 4.9", Height: 8.7 - 9 cm / 3.4" - 3.5",
Approx. full vol. 400-440 ml / 13.5 oz - 14.8 oz

As these are handcrafted items, each piece is slightly different. A photo of the actual piece will be sent to you upon completion of your order

US$38.80 per cup (Shipping charges not included) SOLD OUT