Iwachu cast iron (history, products, teapot use and care)

If you are looking for a Japanese cast iron teapot or kettle, you’ll come across a company called Iwachu. Whether you want a bright and cheerful teapot or a traditional kettle, Iwachu has you covered with their wide range of cast iron hollowware. And with over 100 years of expertise, Iwachu makes some of the best cast-iron teapots, kettles, and cookware.

This article covers:

• Company information
• History of Iwachu
• How teapots and kettles are produced
• Learn about popular products
• Helpful tips to use and maintain your Iwachu ironware

Table: Company information

Iwachu origins	The company has its origins in Morioka. And is located in one of the two major cast-iron regions in Iwate Japan
Located	Address 2 Chome-23-9 Minamisenboku, Morioka, Iwate Japan 020-0863 Google Maps
Founder	Iwachu was founded in 1902 by Sueyoshi Iwashimizu
Ownership	Iwachu is owned by N & I Asia Pte Ltd. A Japanese company headquartered in Singapore. (N & I Asia Pte Ltd website) Address 40 Jln Pemimpin, #04-11 Tat Ann Building, Singapore 577185 Google Maps
Type of casting	The foundry is a big operation, and most of the products are made using the green sand-casting method.
Signature product	Iwachu is best known for its range of teapots. But they also have a beautiful selection of brightly colored teapots and a line of cast-iron cookware.

History of Iwachu Castings

The Iwachu brand was founded in 1902 by Sueyoshi Iwashimizu, in Iwate Japan. Iwate is the largest region in Japan, producing cast-ironware called Nambu or Nanbu Tekki, depending on the translation. If you want to learn more about Nanbu Tekki and the 900-year-old industry, click the link.

The founder of Iwachu Castings

At a very young age, Sueyoshi loved the charm of Nambu Ironware and became an apprentice in a local foundry. He learned all about making high-quality Nambu Ironware during his apprenticeship. And after years of study, Sueyoshi became one of the most skilled Nambu craftsmen in the region.

Sueyoshi faced many challenges when it came to making Nambu ironware. War ceased production at one time as resources were diverted to the war efforts. And sadly, many older pieces of ironware were melted down and repurposed during this time.

Nevertheless, Sueyoshi prevailed and kept the Iwachu brand alive. Eventually, Sueyoshi’s two eldest sons took over the business. The eldest son, Yukichi, who began helping the family business when he was 12 years old, inherited his father’s craftsmanship. While Sueyoshi’s second son, Takiji, had Sueyoshi’s cheerful spirit and keen business sense. The two of them worked together to keep the Iwachu brand going strong well into the future.

Today Iwachu remains is one of the most respected ironware brands in Japan, and the company produces over 1,000,000 products annually.

The current owners of Iwachu

Iwachu is owned by N & I Asia. The parent company was founded in 1993 with just three employees. And has expanded to include some of the most trusted and well-known Japanese brands, including:

• Swiss Diamond
• Nikko
• Tanita
• Zojirushi (which is the most popular rice maker brand in Japan)

N & I Asia similarly run Iwachu to the way Zwilling J. A. Henckels operates Staub. A very hands-off approach. This allows Iwachu to maintain its quality control and expertise in casting. And become more creative with their designs and colors.

Today you can purchase teapots of all shapes and sizes, and you can choose from a wide variety of colors.

Iwachu cast-iron kettles

Iwachu makes beautiful Tetsubins or cast iron tea kettles. These are handmade by their in-house artisans. Tetsubins boil water for tea and are not coated inside, making them more susceptible to rust. However, a method of oxidization reduces the chance of rusting. They are traditionally used over open flames. However, today you can use a tetsubin on multiple heat sources.

Iwachu cast iron teapots

Iwachu cast iron teapots are used for brewing tea and cannot be used over an open flame. But because of the enamel coating, the teapots are nonporous and easy to clean. The teapots also come with a handy removable infuser to make cleaning a breeze.

The Process Of Making Iwachu Tetsubins

Cast-iron tea kettles or tetsubins have been used for more than 400 years to boil water for tea. They are made by a master craftsman known as a kamashi. To become a full-fledged kamashi, these craftsmen study for a minimum of 15 to 40 years. There are about 65 steps needed to make one cast-iron tetsubin. Most of these steps are done manually. Here is an overview of the process in the Boonie Hicks guide to cast iron kettles.

How do Iwachu make their cast iron kettles?

Steps	Process of making Tetsubins kettles
Concept Design	First, the craftsmen design the Tetsubin.
Preparation	Next, the drawing is copied to an iron plate about 1.5 mm thick. And cut out to make a grinding plate.
Clay mold is formed to the desired shape	Sand and clay are mixed to make a mold of the Tetsubin. The mold is cut using a tool called a cow and applied to the grinding plate.
Hand-pressing	Before the mold dries, the pattern or design for the Tetsubin is hand-pressed into the mold.
Mold is assembled	Then, the outer mold is assembled with the inner mold.
Iron is poured	Iron is melted at 1,400 ° C to 1,500 ° C in an electric furnace. A tool called a Yugumi is used to pour the hot iron into the space between the outer mold and the inner core.
Mold is removed	The cast iron solidifies and is released from the mold. Then, the inner core and outer molds are removed.
Kettles smoothed	Raw edges are buffed out.
Rustproofing	The kettle is then fired in a kiln.
Color is applied	The iron kettle is heated to about 250° C. Lacquer is then baked on the surface of the kettle. A black patina called Ohaguro is applied to the outside, at a temperature of about 100°C to 150°C.
Polishing	The kettle is finally polished with a mixture of green tea and vinegar to give a glossy finish.

How are Iwachu cast iron teapots made?

The process of making cast iron teapots is somewhat different for Tetsubins. Cast iron tea kettles are made to boil water, whereas cast iron teapots are only used to make the tea. They are coated with enamel on the inside to prevent rust. Here is an overview of the process that Iwachu uses to make its teapots. I have also written an informative guide on cast iron teapots if you’re interested.

Sand Mold	Sand molds using special foundry sand are pressed into the desired shape. An external mold is carefully placed into the mold. And will eventually form the hollow in the teapot.
Iron is poured	Iron is melted in a furnace at about 1,500° C. The iron is then poured into the mold.
The Sand mold is removed	When the iron in the mold solidifies, the mold and gate-mark are removed and checked for imperfections. The teapots are then placed into a centrifuge to remove sand and smooth edges.
Polishing	Once the sand is removed, the teapot is polished and buffed individually by skilled foundry workers until the surface is smooth and edges free of rough edges.
Rustproofing	A feature of ironware from Japan is the oxidization process. The teapot is heated to a high temperature in a kiln, oxidizing the surface to prevent rust.
Enameling	Then enamel is then baked on the inner surface at a high temperature.
Coloring	The craftsman then hand-paint the outer surface of the teapot.

Iwachu cast iron products

Looking for a new cast-iron teapot? Check out the Iwachu traditional and brightly colored teapot?

Hailstone Teapot Series

This authentic Japanese handcrafted Hailstone Teapot Series features the classic Hailstone pattern. The teapots are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. The elegance and beauty of these teapots make them perfect for tea service. The 16-ounce teapot is ideal for a romantic tea service for two. And the 36-ounce teapot is suitable for a small group of friends.

Characteristic	This teapot is low and wide profile. It is a classical Japanese kettle shape, but it is very different from a standard-looking teapot. And it had a bumpy exterior surface.
Capacity	The teapot has a 16-ounce capacity. Or two standard cups.
Interior coating	This teapot is enameled on the inside.
Removable infuser	Yes, the infuser can easily be removed for easy cleaning.
Use	The teapot is designed for brewing two cups of tea.
Where to buy	If you want to check out this cute teapot, here is an affiliate link to Amazon.

All of the teapots in this series include a stainless steel infuser basket and have a rust-proof enamel coating baked on the inside. This makes them perfect for steeping tea but not suitable for use over an open flame. 

Iwachu Japanese Artisan Iron Teardrop Teapot Series 

This teardrop-shaped cast iron teapot from Iwachu is a contemporary take on a classic design. It features an elongated spout and a squat body. This design helps ensure a clean and smooth pour with no dripping. 

This particular teapot has a 23-ounce capacity and serves up to four. The Teardrop Teapot is available in classic matte black, turquoise, pink, and purple. An enamel coating on the inside helps resist rust.

Characteristic	This teapot has a modern, sleek yet timeless design. It has a smoothmatte finish, and whether you are a traditionalist like myself. Or, if you prefer modern designs, you will love the look and feel of the teapot.
Capacity	23-ounce capacity or 2.8 full cups.
Interior coating	The interior is fully enameled.
Removable infuser	Yes, the teapot has a removable stainless steel infuser.
Use	The teapot is designed for brewing 3-4 cups of tea.
Where to buy	You can check out this pretty neat looking teapot on Amazon (affiliate link).

Iwachu Maple Leaf Cast Iron Teapot Series

This series features a unique maple leaf design. In Japan, maple leaves are admired for their beauty. This 22-ounce teapot is available in gold & black, bronze, green, and red. The colors are made to represent the beauty of autumn leaves. Like Iwachu’s other teapots, this one has a stainless steel infuser and baked porcelain enamel on the inside. It should not be used directly on the stove.

Characteristic	This design is so popular that other manufacturers copy the design. However, if you want an authentic Japanese teapot, look to Iwachu.
Capacity	This teapot holds 22-Ounces or 2.8 full cups.
Interior coating	The teapot is fully enameled.
Removable infuser	Yes, the teapot has an easy-to-clean infuser.
Use	This teapot should hold 3-4 cups of tea, depending on the size of the teacup.
Where to buy	If you want to see this nifty teapot, click the link to Amazon (affiliate link).

Iwachu Japanese Iron Teapot, Honeycomb Series 

This series of teapots feature an elegant honeycomb design. The Japanese have been using this hexagonal pattern as a template for samurai armor for centuries. The Honeycomb Series teapots are available in a 30-ounce capacity, which is perfect for tea service. They are all coated in enamel to resist rust. A removable stainless steel mesh infuser is included. Colors include classic black, gold & taupe, gold & cranberry, lavender & silver, gold & purple, and turquoise.

Characteristic	The surface of this Iwachu teapot is pebbly and gives teapot a real sense of individual character.
Capacity	The honeycomb series comes in a variety of sizes. However, it is also available in a larger 30-ounce capacity, which is just under 1 quart.
Interior coating	The teapot is enameled for easy cleaning.
Removable infuser	Yes, the teapot has a big wide stainless steel infuser.
Use	With nearly a quart of tea, the teapot is ideal if you have a few friends around for tea.
Where to buy	To see this teapot, click the link which will direct you to Amazon (Affiliate link)

Iwachu Japanese Hobnail Arare Cast Iron Teapot Series

These teapots have a hobnail design. This is a classic Japanese teapot design preferred by tea connoisseurs for its simple beauty. The Hobnail series comes in a range of sizes from 20 ounces to 44 ounces, making them perfect for every occasion. They are available in classic black, copper, bronze, and many other color combinations.

Characteristic	This teapot has a traditional design. It is the most familiar pattern many people will recognize.
Capacity	This teapot has a 22-ounce capacity or around 3 cups of tea.
Interior coating	The teapot is fully enameled inside to protect it from rust and the enamel lining makes the teapot easy to rinse out.
Removable Infuser	Yes, it has a removable stainless steel infuser.
Use	A 22-ounce teapot is a perfect size for a couple or at work. So you can enjoy a couple of cups of tea while you’re at your desk.
Where to buy	If you want to see a classic Iwachu teapot, Check out on Amazon (affiliate link).

Iwachu Cast Iron Tea Kettles and Teapots – Use & Care  

1. Before you use your teapot or kettle, wash it with warm water. Then, dry the inside and outside of the kettle with a cloth. 
2. Never boil water in an Iwachu Cast Iron Teapot. These are coated on the inside with an enamel lining. Boiling water in these teapots will damage the coating.
3. Either use an Iwachu tea kettle that is safe on the stovetop. Or boil water separately in another vessel.
4. You might notice white marks or red spots on the bottom of the teapot after about two to three weeks after first use. This is normal and is no cause for concern. It keeps rust from forming. Plus, in Japan, this buildup is considered healthy as it contains iron. 
5. You might notice indentations on the bottom of your Tetsubin or cast iron teapot. This is normal. They are formed during the process of making the teapot. If you want to learn how to make a great-tasting cup of tea using a cast iron teapot, click the link.

Iwachu cast iron teapot care

Follow these care steps. 

1. After you are done using the teapot, pour out the excess water from the teapot. 
2. Then allow the teapot to dry with the lid off. 
3. To keep the surface of your teapot looking shiny, soak a soft cloth in tea. Then, gently polish the outside of the teapot. 

Don’ts

1. Don’t leave tea standing in the teapot for long periods.
2. Also, expose the teapot to salt or oils. 
3. Finally, don’t use harsh cleaners or detergents. This could damage the interior lining.  

Final Thoughts

When you purchase an Iwachu teapot, you can be sure that you are getting an authentic Japanese cast iron teapot. The use of cast iron teapots dates back centuries when they were part of the traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. Iwachu has maintained a classic, timeless aesthetics in its teapot design.

Iwachu is known for having some of the finest teapot craftsmen in Japan. The company has been producing teapots for more than 100 years. Every Iwachu teapot is carefully designed by an artisan. So, no two teapots are alike.

With the proper care, an Iwachu teapot will last forever. It won’t discolor, chip, or rust. No matter which Iwachu teapot you choose for your tea service, you can be sure that you will get a high-quality, timeless piece of ironware.