Umezawa Hinoki Cypress Japanese Sake Masu Cups (Set of 2)

Umezawa Hinoki Cypress Japanese Sake Masu Cups (Set of 2)

Crafted in Japan from beautiful Hinoki cypress (檜), these wooden boxes were originally used to measure rice and have a history stretching back centuries. Today, they are a beloved vessel for drinking sake, prized for the subtle, refreshing aroma the Hinoki wood imparts on the drink.

What is a Masu Cup?

A Masu cup is a traditional Japanese wooden box, originally used as a measurement unit for rice. One standard Masu holds a volume of 180ml, a measurement known as a 'Gō' (合), which is still the standard unit for measuring rice for a rice cooker. Over time, it became a popular and celebratory way to serve and drink sake.

How to Enjoy Overflowing Sake (Mokkiri)

A popular and generous way to serve sake with a Masu involves these steps:

1. Place a small sake glass (ochoko) inside the Masu cup.
2. Pour sake into the glass until it overflows and begins to fill the wooden Masu.
3. Enjoy the sake from the glass first.
4. Lift the Masu cup to drink the remainder, savouring the enhanced flavour from the Hinoki wood.

Alternatively, you can drink directly from the Masu by sipping from a corner.

What's Included

• 2 x Umezawa Hinoki Cypress Masu Cups

Key Features

• Authentic Sake Experience: The traditional way to serve and enjoy sake for celebratory occasions or to elevate your home dining.
• Premium Hinoki Cypress: Crafted from natural Hinoki wood, which is prized for its fine grain, pleasant aroma, and natural antibacterial properties.
• Enhances Flavour: The natural oils in the Hinoki wood impart a subtle, fresh, and slightly citrusy aroma to the sake, enhancing its flavour profile.
• Traditional 'Gō' Measurement: Each cup holds 180ml, the standard 'Gō' unit, making them useful for measuring rice as well.

Care Instructions

• Hand wash only. After use, rinse with warm water and wipe dry with a soft cloth immediately.
• Do not soak the wood in water or use a dishwasher, as this can cause warping, cracking, or loss of aroma.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

About Umezawa

Umezawa has been crafting high-quality wooden goods for over 70 years in the Kiso region of Japan, an area famous for its beautiful and pristine forests. They specialise in using natural, local timbers like Hinoki and Sawara cypress to create functional and beautiful items for the home, honouring traditional Japanese woodworking techniques.

Specifications