Tea Caddy (Natsume)

A natsume is the small lidded caddy that holds the matcha for a sitting. Its name comes from the jujube fruit its shape recalls. And here is the part most people miss: it is a serving vessel, not storage. In the old way you fill it only with what you will use that day, often sifting into it just before; the rest of your matcha stays sealed and cold, because matcha fades fast once it meets air.

Traditional natsume are lacquered wood — beautiful, but delicate and easily chipped in the post. This one is a maki-e style caddy in phenol resin: the look of lacquerware, but light and unbreakable, so it survives daily use and the journey from Japan. Not plastic-cheap — a quiet, warm object that earns its place on the tray. Duty-paid shipping.