Chasen – a bamboo whisk for matcha

A chasen is made from a single piece of bamboo, split by hand into several dozen strands thinner than a matchstick. It is not glued, joined or pressed — the craftsman cuts it with a knife and bends it, and the whole thing remains a single piece of wood. That is why each one looks slightly different.

You can try without it. A fork will leave lumps. A milk frother will break up the powder, but it won’t aerate it in the same way – you’ll end up with matcha full of bubbles, rather than a thick, velvety foam that clings to the surface and transforms the entire texture of the drink. It’s the only tool in this ritual that really can’t be substituted.

To ensure it lasts for years

Before each use, soak the bristles in lukewarm water for a minute — they’ll soften and won’t break. After each brewing, rinse with clean water – no detergent and no dishwasher. Dry it on a stand with the fibres facing down, which helps them retain their shape; without a stand, rest it upright on its handle, fibres facing up, so the water drains away.

Bamboo · approx. 11 × 6 cm.