Welcome to UtsuwaOMUSUBI
We would like to guide our international customers on how to purchase and enjoy our Japanese tableware.
A Message from the Owner
One day, I encountered a piece of tableware that made me exclaim, ‘What is this!’ It radiated a powerful aura. I was astonished by how much power something crafted by human hands could possess.
After realizing how the right tableware can completely transform the look of a dish, I found myself deeply immersed in the world of ceramics.
Traditional Japanese pottery is a form of art that combines beauty with practicality and functionality, crafted by many skilled artisans spread across Japan, each with their own distinct aesthetics."
I named my store “Omusubi” with the hope of tying together the joy and wonder that tableware brings, making people smile.
The tableware we offer at 'Utsuwa-Omusubi' has all been carefully selected based on our century-long history of experience and trust, as well as through personal meetings and discussions with the kiln masters and artisans.
I feel that the value of cherishing and using tableware that brightens our everyday dining and mood has become more meaningful than ever before. It would be our pleasure to help you find an exquisite piece that finds in your life.
Established in 1896. KYOBASHI-SHIRAKI.CO.LTD
Fourth-generation Owner, Raita Takeshita
How to purchase
Search for the products you want on our site. By clicking the menu bar, you can browse items under "All Products," "Choose from Types," "Shop by Price," and "Choose by Dining Style."
Once you've found the product you want, click on the product to view details, then click the "Add to Cart" button. If you're looking for additional items, feel free to continue browsing the site.
Once you've added items to your cart, click the cart icon at the top-right of the screen to proceed with your purchase. Click "Add to Cart" on the Buyee pop-up that appears at the bottom of the screen.
Click “Proceed to Order Procedure” in the Buyee cart.
* Membership registration and login are required to use this service.
Check the product contents and quantity in the Buyee cart and click “Proceed to order page”. Confirm your order.
* Items requested for will be purchased at the target shop.
When your package arrives at the warehouse, we will notify you to the registered email address on your Buyee account.
How to Contact Us
At Utsuwa Omusubi, we also accept custom-made orders.
Please feel free to reach out for estimates, orders, questions, or consultations through the inquiry form below or via email.
Email : qs@kyobashi-shiraki.com
Frequently asked question
A. There are some steps we recommend taking after purchasing your tableware. Following these steps will help ensure your tableware lasts longer.
[What to do after purchase]
Tableware generally falls into two categories: earthenware and porcelain. Simply put, earthenware is made from clay, while porcelain is made from stone. Since earthenware is porous and can absorb water and oils, it may lead to odors or mold if left untreated.
If you purchase earthenware, the first thing to do is to perform "medome" (sealant treatment).
"Medome" involves coating the surface of the many tiny pores in earthenware, which helps prevent stains and dirt to some extent.
To perform medome, fill a pot with rice water (or water mixed with wheat flour or potato starch) enough to submerge the tableware, and slowly heat it over medium heat. Just before it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low, let it simmer for about 10 minutes, then turn off the heat. Leave the pot to cool naturally for about half a day.
Notes: If the heat is too high, parts of the tableware may become too hot, causing cracks or breakage.
Rapid cooling can lead to damage.
If treating multiple pieces at once, place kitchen paper between them to avoid direct contact.
By performing medome, the starch will fill the fine pores in the tableware, helping to prevent dirt from penetrating.
A. The tableware we offer is carefully handcrafted by artists and craftsmen. Please be aware that some items may not be suitable for modern appliances like microwaves and dishwashers.
Microwave
Generally, it is often fine to use the microwave for warming, but rapid temperature changes can cause breakage. Items with metallic decorations, such as gold or silver, should not be used in the microwave, as they may spark.
Dishwasher
Similar to the microwave, items with metallic decorations may have their coatings removed. Dishwashers use a lot of water, which can easily be absorbed by porous earthenware. When exposed to humidity and temperature changes inside the dishwasher, this can lead to odors and mold. Additionally, tableware may chip if it collides with other pieces during the wash cycle.
You may find these restrictions a bit inconvenient. However, because these are your favorite pieces, we hope you’ll treat them with care, just as the artisans invested their time and effort in creating them.
Over time, you might notice that the colors settle or that some minor scratches and stains may develop. We refer to these changes as a "landscape." We hope you can enjoy this evolving landscape and cultivate your unique tableware over time.
A. We typically ship within 7 days after receiving your order.
Since our shop also offers many items that are made to order, some products may take longer than usual to prepare.
Even for items listed as in stock on our site, there may be occasions when they become out of stock or need to be special ordered. Please understand that some items have limited quantities, and we appreciate your patience in case of any stock shortages.
A. In principle, we do not accept cancellations.
If a package cannot be received due to prolonged absence or refusal of delivery after shipment, it may be treated as a return, and we may have to decline future orders from you. We appreciate your understanding in advance.