



Kutani Bird Soba Cup
Secure, insured delivery from Japan
Worldwide shipping from $30 · free over $150. Shipping policy
$39 of $150 with this item · $111 to go
U.S. duties prepaid
No extra import charges on delivery — the price you see is the price you pay. Learn more
Sourced in Japan, from the makers
Direct from Japanese workshops and their authorised channels.
Why You’ll Love It
Pairs well with

Kutani Bird Soba Cup
Indulge in the beauty of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with the Kutani Bird Soba Cup. This charming cup, also known as a soba choko, brings a touch of elegance to your dining table. Crafted from fine porcelain, this piece features vibrant Kutani Gosai decoration, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors and intricate details that will transform everyday meals into delightful culinary experiences. Perfect for enjoying soba soup, this versatile cup can also serve as a dessert bowl, a small bowl, or a decorative vase for your favorite blooms.
Artisan Craftsmanship
The Kutani Bird Soba Cup is a prime example of Kutani ware, a revered pottery tradition from Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Handcrafted with care, each piece reflects the unique artistry of the local artisans. With a diameter of 3.2 inches (8.2 cm) and a height of 2.6 inches (6.5 cm), this cup offers comfortable handling and an eye-catching presence. Its smooth finish, adorned with intricate bird motifs, invites you to touch and appreciate its craftsmanship, making it a delightful addition to your tableware collection.
Versatile and Practical Design
This multipurpose cup is not just for soba; its thoughtful design allows it to shine in various roles. Whether you're sipping a warm chawanmushi, serving a rich dessert, or using it as a charming storage solution for small items, this cup integrates seamlessly into your daily routine. Its vibrant colors and functional elegance make it a wonderful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, housewarmings, or weddings, ensuring it remains a cherished item for years to come.
Gift with Meaning
Looking for a gift that speaks volumes? The Kutani Bird Soba Cup is ideal for special celebrations. Its cultural significance and handcrafted elements make it a memorable gift for occasions such as Mother's Day, Father's Day, and milestone anniversaries. Presented in a lovely paper box, measuring 4 inches by 4 inches, this cup is ready to impress. With thoughtful care, it can withstand daily use while retaining its vibrant beauty, making it a keepsake for your loved ones.
Product Information
Care instructions
Note
Questions About This Piece
What does the bird motif represent in Japanese design?
Is this cup only meant for soba sauce?
How is this different from mass-produced ceramic cups?
Does the cup feel delicate or sturdy?
Is this a good choice for a thoughtful gift?
Kutani ware · Ishikawa, Japan
Kutani: Japan’s art of brilliant color
Kutani ware emerged in Ishikawa in the 17th century and became celebrated for bold overglaze painting and an unmistakably rich use of color. Its decorative language ranges from expressive nature motifs to highly detailed compositions, giving Kutani porcelain a vivid character unlike almost any other Japanese ceramic tradition.
Discover Kutani
Learn more about Kutani ware
What is Kutani ware?
Kutani ware is a tradition of Japanese porcelain associated with Ishikawa Prefecture. It first developed in the 17th century and is especially known for richly colored overglaze decoration, bold compositions and a wide range of styles that evolved over several centuries.
What are the five colors of Kutani ware?
The traditional Kutani palette is often referred to as Kutani Gosai, or the five Kutani colors: red, yellow, green, purple and dark blue. These vivid overglaze enamels are used in different combinations, from dense decorative painting to more restrained contemporary work.
Where is Kutani ware made?
Kutani ware is associated with Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan’s Hokuriku region, particularly the areas around Kaga, Komatsu and Kanazawa. The original Kutani production began near present-day Kaga in the mid-1600s.
Why does Kutani ware look so different from other Japanese porcelain?
Kutani is distinguished by its emphasis on decoration after the porcelain body has been fired. Layers of colored enamel are applied over the glaze, allowing artists to create saturated color, strong outlines and highly expressive imagery. This gives Kutani ware a more painterly and often more dramatic appearance than many other Japanese porcelain traditions.

