Our Products
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The gold decoration seems discolored. Is that okay?
This is not a flaw, but a natural characteristic of metallic overglaze.
Because many gold or silver decorations use alloy-based lusters, they can change slightly in color over time. We recommend gentle hand-washing and avoiding microwave use to preserve the beauty of your piece.
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I see small dents, scratches, or raised spots. Is this a defect?
No, in most cases, these are natural marks created by handwork and are not defects.
During the pottery-making process, subtle traces may appear at various stages, including forming, glazing, and firing.
However, if there are any noticeable chips, cracks, or peeling of the glaze, the item may be defective. In that case, please contact our concierge team and attach photos.
Concierge team: info@musubikiln.com
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I see small black spots (like iron powder). Is it safe to use?
This is not a defect, but a natural result of iron minerals contained in the clay reacting to the firing process.
It does not affect safety or functionality, and many consider these small marks to be part of the earthy beauty of handmade ceramics.
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Small bubbles or uneven textures appear on the surface. Is this a defect?
No, this is not a defect.
Most of the tableware offered by MUSUBI KILN is handcrafted one by one by skilled artisans.
During the glazing and high-temperature firing process, small bubbles, pinholes, or slight rough textures may naturally occur as a result of air or minerals reacting within the glaze.
These features are a part of the unique character of handmade pottery, and even when pieces are made with the same clay, glaze, and kiln, slight differences in firing temperature, placement, or humidity can create individual variations in each item.
Please rest assured that these natural textures do not affect the product’s quality, functionality, or safety.
We hope you will appreciate these subtle differences as a reflection of the warmth and individuality that only handcrafted work can offer.
Small bumps are considered acceptable, but if you find any large ones, please contact our concierge team.
Concierge team:info@musubikiln.com
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Where can I learn more about the artisans and origins?
Detailed information about each product can be found under the “MAKER/BRAND” and “CRAFTS” sections below the product description on each product page.
At MUSUBI KILN, we value sharing the stories of the artisans and the historical and cultural background behind every piece.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our Concierge Team.
Concierge Team:info@musubikiln.com
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How can I find the size and capacity of the items?
In the product detail column on every product page, the measurements of each item are provided. To see an example, kindly refer to the red-circled section in the picture below.If you can't find the information you need, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Concierge Team:info@musubikiln.com
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Are all Donabes (Clay Pots) induction-compatible?
Our Donabes are compatible only with open-flame cooktops, electric ovens, and electric cooktops, but not induction cooktops. However, the following Donabe are induction-compatible.
- Kikka Banko Donabe Japanese Clay Pot Induction Compatible for 3 to 4 persons
- Kikka Black IH-Compatible Donabe Rice Cooker 2 Rice Cooker Cups (2 Gou)
- Kikka Blue IH-Compatible Donabe Rice Cooker 2 Rice Cooker Cups (2 Gou)
For more details on product use, please refer to the description section on each product page.
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Can dishes be used in the oven?
Please do not use our handmade products in the oven, as they are very delicate.
Products made with gold or silver should not be used in microwave ovens or ovens, as sparks may fly off and dirty or damage the surface.
Also, please refrain from using lacquerware and metal products in ovens.
As microwave use varies by product, please check the “DETAILS” on each product page.
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How can I care for my tableware?
To help our customers enjoy our tableware for years to come, we provide care instructions.
Please refer to the following guides:
- How to Care for Your Donabe Clay Pot
- How To Care for Stoneware and Earthenware
- How to Care for Your Japanese Chopsticks
- How to Care for Japanese Lacquerware
- How to Care for Metal Crafts
- How to Care for Nambu Ironware
- How to Season Nambu Ironware Nabe
- How to Care for Japanese Copper Cookware
- How to Clean a Japanese Teapot
- How to Care for Your Chasen
- How to Care for Magewappa
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If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us anytime.
Concierge Team:info@musubikiln.com
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Can I purchase the set products individually?
Unfortunately, the items in a set are not intended for individual sale, as they are crafted as a complete collection by artisans.
We sincerely appreciate your understanding in advance.
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Are the products safe to use in the microwave and dishwasher?
Whether a product can be used in a microwave oven or dishwasher depends on the product. Please check the “Product Details” on each product page. Please refer to the picture below as an example.
Please do not use products containing gold or silver, as sparks will fly.
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What is the capacity of the teapot?
On every product page, the measurements of each item are provided. To see an example, kindly refer to the red-circled section in the picture below.
If you can't find the information you need, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Concierge Team: info@musubikiln.com
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Is it okay to heat the sake carafe in hot water?
Yes, you can heat up a sake carafe in hot water. Also, if the item is microwave-safe, you can heat it in the microwave. However, please do not heat products containing gold or silver in the microwave, as sparks will fly.
How to heat up a bottle of sake
- Put the sake bottle in the pot and pour water into the pot until the bottle is half full.
- Remove the sake bottle and heat the water in the pot.
- While the water is heating, pour the sake into the bottle.
- Wrap the spout of the sake bottle.
- When the water in the pot comes to a boil, turn off the heat.
- Put the sake bottle in the center of the pot to warm it up.
- Pour the warmed sake into a sake cup and drink.
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Do your products contain lead/cadmium?
Some of our products, like most glazed ceramics, may contain trace amounts of lead or cadmium. However, these elements are sealed beneath the glaze and are present at levels that do not pose a health risk when used as intended.
All MUSUBI KILN products have been tested in accordance with the Japanese Food Sanitation Act and meet its strict elution (leaching) safety standards.
Please note that testing standards and regulations vary by country. For this reason, we cannot guarantee that these test results will meet the specific regulatory requirements of every region.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.
Concierge Team: info@musubikiln.com
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I found something that looks like a crack in the product. Is it defective?
Please rest assured that the fine lines shown in the image are not defects. These delicate patterns are known as “Kannyu” (crackle glaze), a natural characteristic of certain glazed ceramics.
Kannyu is different from cracks or damage caused by breakage. These lines do not penetrate the clay body, do not cause leakage, and do not affect the safe use of the item.Even when ceramics are made with the same clay, glaze, and kiln, the appearance of Kannyu can vary depending on firing temperature and the position of the piece within the kiln. For this reason, some pieces may display Kannyu while others may not.
We hope you will enjoy these variations as part of the unique character and beauty of handmade pottery.
For more information, please read: Imperfect Beauty – Cracking the Code of Kannyu
If a crack feels rough to the touch or catches your finger, it may indicate an actual defect. In such cases, please contact our Concierge Team and send a photo of the affected area so we may assist you.
Concierge Team: info@musubikiln.com
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Are the products made in Japan?
At MUSUBI KILN, we guarantee that all of our products are made in Japan.
Traditional Japanese crafts are highly valued worldwide, and counterfeit items are unfortunately common in the market. We take this issue very seriously and are fully committed to ensuring the authenticity and traceability of every product we offer.
To learn more about our values and approach, please visit our About Us page.
For deeper insight into the stories, craftsmanship, and beauty behind our products, we invite you to explore the MUSUBI Journal.